Essential Guide for Indians Immigrating to Canada

Canada is a wonderful country with a lot of promising opportunities available for immigrants. It also helps that they are among the most welcoming nations in the world. For Indian nationals, Canada is a great destination if you are looking for a long-term stay abroad. Whether you want to settle in Canada permanently or take up a long-term job, there are plenty of options available.

 Rising Immigration Rate in Canada:

The astonishing rate of immigration from India to Canada is at an astonishing rate. The tightening immigration policies under the Trump administration are part of the reason why Indians are increasingly choosing Canada over the USA. This is true not just for Indian nationals but for many other nationalities, as well.

 But the number of Indians obtaining permanent residence in the country is particularly interesting because it has doubled in figure within a span of 3 years. In 2016, there were 39,705 Indians that migrated to Canada. As of 2019, this number has reached over 80,000. This is a total increase rate of 105%. According to experts, this trend will likely continue in the next few years. There is still a growing demand for skilled workers and there are many Indians who fit the bill.

There are plenty of reasons behind this such as the fact that the application for permanent residence in Canada is more lenient than those of the US. In particular, the denial rate for permanent residence petitions in the US has increased four times since Trump assumed office. Another reason why Canada is a booming alternative for immigration is the fact that there are many Canadian universities that attract foreign students, including Indian nationals.

 Visa and Immigration Policies:

Once you have decided on a long-term stay in Canada, the first thing that you have to think about is how to secure a proper visa. You need to make sure that you meet the eligibility requirements before you can move to Canada. Based on the personal information submitted, you can qualify for either the Express Entry Program or the Provincial Nominee Program. For the latter, you need to check the varying eligibility requirements set by each province, though.

Another basic requirement for long-term stay in Canada is the age. You must be between the ages of 24 to 35 to become eligible. Language proficiency is another important criterion. You must pass IELTS and CLB examinations as part of your application. You will be evaluated in reading, speaking, and writing.

Obtaining higher education upon your application for an immigration visa is another factor that will earn you higher points. If you have earned a degree, it should be from a recognized university in order for it to be honored by Canadian immigration policies. The work experience is another valuable factor that is considered, especially if you are looking to work in a field of high demand. The presence of a sibling already staying in Canada is one more factor that will increase your eligibility points.

If you are able to meet the minimum points requirement, you will be given the Invitation to Apply or ITA. 

Immigration Process: Step by Step Guide: 

Applying for permanent residency status in Canada will require you to go through a process. Here are the steps that you need to follow:

• Work with a consultancy firm that has a good reputation and track record. They can help you find a good placement for permanent residence in Canada.
• Complete the IELTS examination to showcase your language proficiency.
• Complete the pre-assessment of candidature through the aid of your immigration consultancy firm.
• Begin the application process with either the Express Entry Program or Provincial Nominee Program.
• Submit all the education and work experience documents needed for further authentication.
• Provide proof of funds to showcase your ability to survive to live in Canada.
• Submit records of your medical checkup and police clearance.
• File your visa application.
• Get ready for your departure to Canada.

Documents Required:

Providing the necessary documents for a long-term stay and permanent residence in Canada is important for your approval. The type of paperwork needed will vary on a case-to-case basis (such as your candidature profile). Below is a tentative list of required documents that you should expect to prepare:

• Passport
• Photos
• Police record or clearance
• Medical checkup
• Educational documents
• Work experience documents
• IELTS examination result
• Proof of funds

 Moving to Canada Permanently:

If you have complied with the documents required above and the processes listed, you can formally begin the visa processing. The visa immigration process in Canada is known as one of the friendliest in the world, so you should have no problem obtaining a visa if you have fulfilled all the requirements. The processes have been enhanced to make it easier for skilled workers to come to Canada to support the provincial and national economy.

There are currently three options available for visa immigration programs in Canada. The first two have been mentioned above: the Express Entry Program and the Provincial Nomination Program. Another option is the Quebec Skilled Worker Program. Each of these programs has unique sets of policies and requirements, so choose one that best matches your candidature profile. An immigration consultant can advise you on the qualifications for each and match you with the right program for higher chances of approval.

 Finding Residence in Canada:

After going through all the processes to comply with immigration and visa requirements in Canada, the next step for Indians is to find a place to stay. If you choose to stay in big cities like Toronto and Montreal, you should have no problem finding accommodations as there are many options. For example, you can find lots of new condos in Montreal so you can live close to your place of work or school. To check listings online, you can see this link for more details.

There is now a strong Indian community in various parts of Canada. The transition to living in the country should be easier because you will feel at home. Canada is also one of those countries with a huge immigrant population, so expect lots of diversity and you will feel welcome, regardless of where in the country you live.