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India to Canada
Canada Immigration from India
India is the top source country for Canadian immigrants. Over 100,000 Indians receive permanent residence annually through Express Entry, study permits, and family sponsorship programs.
Indian Community
1.8+ million Canadians of Indian origin
Major Cities
Toronto/Brampton, Vancouver/Surrey, Calgary
Express Entry
6 months processing
Overview
Immigrating to Canada from India
Indian nationals represent the largest immigrant group in Canada, with strong communities in Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, and other major cities. The well-established diaspora provides support networks for newcomers.
Express Entry is the most popular pathway for Indian skilled workers. Strong English proficiency (required for most Indian applicants), high education levels, and relevant work experience make Indians competitive candidates.
Canada values the skills Indians bring in technology, healthcare, finance, and engineering. Provincial programs also actively recruit from India, with provinces like Ontario, BC, and Alberta conducting targeted draws.
Indian Community in Canada
Vibrant Indian communities with temples, cultural centers, Indian groceries, and restaurants. Strong professional networks in tech and healthcare.
Free Assessment
Find out your eligibility for Canadian immigration. Our consultants have helped many Indian clients.
Book ConsultationRCIC License: R515110
Immigration Pathways
Popular Pathways for Indian Immigrants
Explore the most common routes to Canadian permanent residence from India.
Express Entry
6 monthsThe fastest pathway for skilled workers. Indians with IT, engineering, healthcare, or finance experience are particularly competitive.
CLB 7+ language proficiency
1+ year skilled work experience
Educational Credential Assessment
Competitive CRS score
Study Permit to PR
2-4 years totalStudy in Canada, gain Canadian experience through PGWP, then apply for PR through Express Entry or PNP.
Admission to DLI
Provincial Attestation Letter
Proof of funds (CAD 22,895+)
Strong academic background
Provincial Nominee Programs
12-18 monthsGet nominated by a province. Popular options include OINP, BC PNP Tech, and Alberta Advantage.
Meet provincial criteria
Express Entry profile (for EE streams)
Job offer (for some streams)
Intent to settle in province
LMIA Work Permit
3-6 months for work permitGet a job offer from a Canadian employer who sponsors your work permit, then transition to PR.
Job offer from Canadian employer
Positive LMIA
Relevant qualifications
Proof of ties to India
Document Checklist
Required Documents from India
Documents you'll need to prepare for your Canadian immigration application.
Passport
Valid for at least 6 months beyond planned travel. Include all old passports.
Educational Credentials
Original degrees, marksheets from all levels. WES or other designated ECA required.
Work Experience Letters
On company letterhead with exact duties, dates, hours. Follow IRCC format.
Language Test
IELTS General Training or CELPIP. Aim for CLB 9+ for competitive CRS.
Police Clearance
PCC from Passport Seva Kendra. Required for all countries lived in 6+ months after age 18.
Proof of Funds
Bank statements showing settlement funds. Single applicant needs approximately CAD 14,690.
Language Requirements
Language Testing for Indian Applicants
IELTS General Training or CELPIP for English. TEF or TCF for French.
Tips for Success
Most Indian applicants test in English. Aim for CLB 9+ (IELTS 7+) for competitive CRS. Consider adding French for bonus points.
Processing Times
Express Entry6 months
Study Permit7-10 weeks
Work Permit (LMIA)3-4 months
Family Sponsorship12-24 months
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about immigrating from India to Canada
What CRS score do Indians typically need?
CRS requirements vary by draw. Indians generally score well due to education and language ability. Aim for 470+ for general draws, lower for PNP or category-based draws. Many Indians boost scores through provincial nomination.
Is IELTS mandatory for Canada immigration?
Language testing is mandatory for most immigration programs. IELTS General Training or CELPIP are accepted for English. Higher scores significantly improve your CRS and chances of success.
How long does Express Entry take from India?
Once you receive an ITA, processing takes approximately 6 months. Building a competitive profile (language test, ECA, documents) takes 3-6 months before that. Total timeline is typically 9-12 months.
Can I bring my family to Canada?
Yes, you can include your spouse and dependent children in PR applications. Your spouse's education and language can add CRS points. After becoming PR, you can sponsor parents and grandparents.
Do I need a job offer to immigrate?
Not required for Express Entry, but a valid job offer adds 50-200 CRS points. Many Indians succeed without job offers by maximizing language scores, education, and pursuing PNP nominations.
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