Many Indians dream of migrating to Canada due to its high standard of living, thriving job market, and immigrant-friendly environment. As an Indian, you have several options for immigrating to Canada – each with its requirements. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to migrate to Canada from India.
Choose a Canada Immigration Program
The first step is choosing one of Canada’s economic immigration programs based on your background and goals. Some top options include:
Express Entry – This system manages applications for three economic immigration programs – Federal Skilled Worker, Federal Skilled Trades, and Canadian Experience Class. You are scored under a points-based system called the Comprehensive Ranking System. The highest-ranked candidates in the express entry pool are issued invitations to apply for permanent residence.
Provincial Nominee Program – This program allows Canadian provinces and territories to nominate immigration candidates based on local labor market needs. Each province has its own eligibility criteria. A nomination significantly boosts your chances of express entry success.
Quebec Skilled Worker Program – This program is for those looking to immigrate specifically to Quebec province. Selection factors include work experience, education, language proficiency, and more.
Determine Your Eligibility
Once you’ve identified one or more programs to apply under, determine if you’re eligible by making sure you meet the minimum criteria for work experience, education, language ability, and other factors. Quebec has French language requirements.
For express entry, take the free Come to Canada tool assessment to gauge your points score. Aim for at least 400+ points to have a good chance of success.
Gather Required Documents
Canadian immigration applications require supporting documents to prove you meet the eligibility criteria. Common documents include educational credentials, language test results, police certificates, medical exam records, proof of work experience letters and more.
Have your credentials evaluated through a designated organization if they are from India. Any non-English or French documents will need certified translations.
Submit Your Application
Once your documentation is complete, submit your application through the appropriate channel. For express entry, create an online profile and enter the express entry pool. Ensure forms are completed properly and payments are made correctly. For PNPs and QSWP, apply directly to the specific province.
Wait for Processing
Canada’s immigration department will review your application and assess it based on the program criteria. Wait times vary from a few months for express entry to a year or more for PNPs. Ensure your application status is updated online and watch for any requests for additional documents.
Conditional approval is given first, then permanent residence once health/security checks are passed.
Land in Canada
To complete the immigration process, you must land in Canada within a year of your medical/security clearance and before your visa expiration. Inform Canadian immigration authorities upon arrival. You can then apply for a Canadian permanent resident card.
Get Settled
Upon landing in Canada, take steps to settle down and build a life there. Apply for a Social Insurance Number, open a bank account, find housing, look for employment using your work permit, and make arrangements to ship your belongings.
Become a Canadian Citizen
Finally, work towards becoming a Canadian citizen after living in Canada for 3 out of the previous 5 years. Pass a citizenship test and interview. Canadian citizenship allows you to apply for a Canada passport visa free countries and gives you voting rights and other benefits.
Conclusion
Immigrating to Canada is a complex multi-step process but worth the effort. Hiring an immigration lawyer can help manage the application and avoid mistakes. With proper preparation, Indians can successfully realize their Canadian dreams and future. The key is finding the right program, diligently compiling documents and meeting eligibility criteria.