How to Immigrate to Canada as a Skilled Worker from India

The Canadian government intends to welcome over 400,000 new permanent residents each year under its Immigration Levels Plan.

India, as Canada’s largest source of new permanent residents, remains an important partner in achieving this goal.

Before COVID-19 disrupted immigration in 2019, India accounted for one-quarter of all new Canadian immigrants. If flight suspensions and other COVID-19 travel restrictions are lifted, Canada could expect to welcome over 100,000 new permanent residents from India each year.

Since September 27, 2021, direct flights from India have resumed. The government has updated its COVID screening requirements at the port of entry. Please review the latest government guidelines before your departure.

Immigration Programs

Express Entry is a system that was created by the Canadian government for skilled workers to immigrate to the country. In 2019, 46% of all invitations were sent to Indian nationals.

The process for getting permanent residence through Express Entry involves:

• Find out if you qualify: Candidates for this program must meet certain minimum requirements, which include skilled work experience, language proficiency, and educational requirements.
• Prepare your paperwork: You will be required to provide a number of documents, including your passport, a written job offer, proof of funds, and language test results to demonstrate English or French proficiency. Click here for more information on the accepted language tests and how to register.
• Submit your profile:  You will be added to a pool of candidates after submitting your information. Express Entry assigns points to candidates based on their skills, education, language ability, and other factors.
• Receive invitation: Candidates who receive the highest scores will be invited to apply for permanent residency. Your application will be due in 60 days.

Provincial Nominee Program

Another program available for skilled workers who want to immigrate to Canada and become permanent residents is the Provincial Nominee Program. Each province has different requirements and “streams” in which provinces target specific groups such as students, business people, skilled workers, or semi-skilled workers.

When applying for PNP, you’ll have to go through the appropriate stream depending on what matters most to you. Some streams require paper-based applications while others use an online process through Express Entry. If you’re applying, make sure to take a medical exam and provide proof of vaccinations before.

In most cases, you will be required to provide your biometrics as part of the application process (fingerprint and photograph). For help in locating a Biometrics site near you, go to the Government of Canada’s website.

Other Programs

Overall, Canada has over 100 different eligible pathways for immigrants. This includes family sponsorship or other options such as economic class pathways.

For more information on immigration to Canada and the programs available, please call us at 1800 419 3242 or email us at inquiry@winnyimmigration.com. You can also check your Canada PR eligibility for free, visit https://winnyimmigration.com/evaluation-form/.