Looking for greener pastures abroad? You’re not alone. Many Indians dream of a better life, often hoping to live in another country where the pay is higher and the quality of life seems better. According to data from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), there were over 13.6 million Indians living abroad as of December 2022. This includes those who have permanently migrated and those who work on short-term contracts.
But let’s face it, moving to a completely new country is both exciting and daunting. Before you pack your bags, there are important questions you need to ask yourself:
1. Which country requires your skills?
2. Where should you look?
3. How much do they pay?
4. What about housing and living costs?
5. What challenges might you encounter?
6. How expensive will it be to live there?
What are the best jobs and salaries in popular countries?
Check out data from University Living, a global student housing marketplace, showing the most in-demand jobs and average salaries in countries including the US, Canada, UK, Australia, France and New Zealand:
United States (US)
The U.S. labor market is always in flux, driven by technological advancements and changing consumer preferences. Some of the top occupations in high demand include:
1. Software developers
Average salary: $130,267 (Rs 1,09,33,100) per annum.
2. Registered Nurses (RNs)
Average salary: $113,825 per year.
3. Medical and health services managers
Average salary: Between $50,000 and $99,000
4. Data Scientists
Average salary: $123,125 per year
5. Information security analysts
Average salary: Between $96,652 and $124,740 per year
Salaries can vary widely depending on the region. For example, Massachusetts, New York, and California offer some of the highest average salaries.
United Kingdom (UK)
The UK is a top destination for higher education and career growth, with diverse jobs across a range of sectors. With an unemployment rate of 4.4%, it is a stable environment for those looking to build a career.
Here are some of the most in-demand jobs and their average annual salaries:
1. Solution architect
Average salary: £72,150
2. Financial Manager
Average salary: £47,413
3. Medical Director
This is one of the highest paying jobs
Average salary: £103,637
4. Neurosurgeon: Another well-paid position
Average salary: £94,434
The UK labour market is bolstered by a mix of large companies and start-ups
Canada
Canada is known for its welcoming immigration policies, especially for Indians. The post-pandemic job market has seen an increase in remote work, especially in sectors such as healthcare, e-commerce and IT.
Some of the most sought after jobs in Canada include:
1. Accountant
Average salary: $63,163
2. Human Resources Manager
Average salary: $95,193
3. Project Manager
Average salary: $92,664
Australia
According to Saurabh Arora, CEO of University Living, Australia is currently experiencing a high demand for skilled professionals, with over 400,000 vacancies and an expected need for 1 million healthcare workers in the next five years.
Some of the most in-demand jobs include:
1. Marketing and sales
Average salary: Between $55,000 and $120,000
2. Technique
Average salary: $87,392 to $180,000
3. Health care
Average salary: Between $70,000 and $150,000, with a high need for skilled nurses
France
France offers a wealth of jobs, particularly in sectors such as technology, engineering and healthcare, with more than 500,000 job openings by 2024.
Top sought-after jobs and associated salaries include:
1. Technique
Average salary: € 55,160
2. IT and software
Average salary: €42,799
3. Health care
Average salary: €47,500
The French labor market is influenced by the strong economy, government policies and technological advances.
New Zealand
New Zealand is facing a skills shortage, with 79% of employers struggling to find qualified candidates, according to research by the Employment and Manufacturers Association (EMA). If you’re considering a move, here are some of the most sought-after jobs:
1. Accountants
Average salary: Between $135k and $170k
2. IT project managers:
Average salary: $130k to $160k
3. Engineers
Average salary: Up to $160,000 (depending on role)
Finding a job in a new country is not without its challenges. Piyush Gupta, Vice President of India and Middle East at CanAm Enterprises, a US-based investment firm, explains: “The US remains a major labour market due to its large economy and low unemployment rate. The H-1B visa and EB-5 programme, for those who can afford them, further increase its appeal. Canada’s competitive Express Entry system and ever-increasing immigrant population have far outstripped the number of homes available, leading to high housing inflation and higher costs due to high interest rates. At the same time, Germany’s language requirement is a hurdle for many. Britain’s post-Brexit regulations create complexity, while New Zealand and France face skills shortages and bureaucratic processes that pose a challenge for expats.”
United States:The H-1B visa process can be competitive and the cost of living can be high in some states.
Canada:The Express Entry system is very competitive and housing costs have increased due to high demand.
GermanyLanguage barriers can be a major obstacle and the visa procedure is often complicated.
United Kingdom: Post-Brexit regulations have made the labour market more complex.
New Zealand: There is a skills shortage, but the bureaucratic processes can be challenging.
France:The job market is competitive and it can take time to adapt to the local culture.