Canada sees an influx of Indian immigrants every year through several programs. This article aims to briefly lay down the most popular pathways chosen by Indians for the purpose of economic immigration to Canada.
Express Entry: The express entry is an online system that manages the application for three immigration programs i.e., Canadian Experience Class, Federal Skilled Worker Program, and Federal Skilled Trades Program. If an individual is eligible for either of these programs, they can enter the information into the express entry pool of candidates and will get a score based on a comprehensive ranking system. The candidates obtaining a score which is higher than the cut-off decided by IRCC will be invited to apply for permanent residence.
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): These programs are specific to the provinces and territories in Canada and aim to secure the talent required to combat labor market challenges. Most provinces in Canada participate in PNP. The enhanced PNP program considers applicants from the express entry pool while the Base PNP is available to those who are not eligible for express entry. Securing a nomination boosts the applicant’s CRS points by 600 and thereby pushing the application to the top to secure an invitation to apply for permanent residency.
PGWP: Canada offers international students an opportunity to gain relevant work experience in Canada though Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). International Students who study in Canada may be eligible for PGWP. The duration of PGWP is based on the length of the study programs. However, it is important to note that not all study programs would qualify for a PGWP. Any skilled work experience that is gained while on the PGWP would be considered for an express entry application under the Canadian Experience Program.
Work Permits: Canadian work permit would either fall under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program or the International Mobility Program. In order to qualify under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program, the Canadian employer in most cases is required to obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). LMIA is not required for the International Mobility Program which promotes economic, social, and cultural policy objectives and is quite specific to individual cases.