September 18, 2024

Canada, a picturesque country with a growing population and diverse culture, is becoming a hub for immigrant entrepreneurs. This is all thanks to the Canadian government’s Start-Up Visa Program. As a prominent firm of immigration lawyers, we will take you through the program so you can make better decisions for your future. Let’s get in!

What is the Canadian Start Up Visa Program?

Also known as SUV, the Start Up Visa Program Canada was launched a decade back by the government. The idea was to attract foreign nationals willing to register their firms in the country, ultimately benefiting the economy. The program targets talented individuals or groups that will create jobs for the locals, start something unique, and compete with established global businesses.

The SUV program is a win-win for everybody involved!

What are the Benefits of the Start Up Visa Program?

The Canada Start Up Visa Program is an excellent way to join the budding economy. The program has changed many lives and will continue to do so.

One significant benefit of the SUV program is that the applicant’s direct family becomes eligible for Canadian citizenship. Additionally, the government offers permanent residency permits to the applicant, allowing him to leverage most benefits similar to those of a Canadian national. However, the applicant cannot engage in any activity associated with political cause.

Lastly, the SUV program offers investors an easy path to attain citizenship after living for three years in the country.

Why Should Foreign Nations Invest in Canada?

Canada is in an excellent position for foreign nationals to invest. The economy offers a promising future and a fantastic growth rate. Some lucrative reasons for investors to invest in the economy are:

  • Stable economy with excellent resilience to global events driven by the financial crisis.
  • Access to the marketplace of the biggest economy in the world – The United States, ensuring that you can secure a vast customer base by offering something of relevance.
  • The country’s high standard of living and rich mix of diverse cultures.

What are the Canadian Start Up Visa Requirements?

The primary requirements of a Canadian Start Up Visa are:

  • The applicant must have a letter of support from an authorized organization, i.e. a registered national angel investor, business incubator, or venture capital firm.
  • Investors should have a qualifying business.
  • The applicant must meet the country’s proficiency and language requirements.
  • The investor must have enough money and proof supporting their finances.

Conclusion

Canadian Start-Up Visa Program is a government-authorized program that warmly welcomes foreign investors into the economy. The government offers an easy pathway – Canada citizenship by investment in exchange for the money and jobs the investor brings into the country.

Please note that the process is highly time-consuming and challenging to crack, even if you know your eligibility. So, it is best to leave your immigration to our experts if you want to leverage everything Canada offers.

June 8, 2024

CANADA PR ON ARRIVAL FOR CAREGIVERS

### Canada Introduces New Pilot Programs to Support Caregivers and Canadian Families

Foreign caregivers are essential to Canadian families, making a significant impact on the lives of children, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. In recognition of their vital contributions, Canada is rolling out new pilot programs aimed at enhancing support for caregivers and Canadian families, with plans to make these programs permanent.

#### Enhanced Caregiver Pilots Announced

As the Home Child Care Provider Pilot and the Home Support Worker Pilot are set to conclude later this month, the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, has announced the initiation of new and improved caregiver pilots. These programs will continue to allow caregivers to come to Canada and work towards obtaining permanent residency (PR).

#### Benefits of the New Pilot Programs

The new pilot programs offer numerous advantages for caregivers, including:

– **Permanent Residency Upon Arrival**: Caregivers will be granted PR status as soon as they arrive in Canada, facilitating their integration and providing greater stability.

– **Broader Employment Options**: Caregivers will be permitted to work for organizations that offer temporary or part-time care for individuals who are semi-independent or recovering from an illness or injury.

– **Simplified Employment Pathways**: These programs aim to make it easier for caregivers to secure suitable jobs with dependable employers.

 

#### Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for these new pilot programs, applicants must meet the following criteria:

– Achieve a minimum of level 4 on the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB).

– Possess the equivalent of a Canadian high school diploma.

– Have recent and relevant work experience.

– Receive a full-time job offer in home care.

These new pathways enable caregivers to find appropriate employment with reputable employers and gain straightforward access to PR status upon arrival in Canada.

#### Supporting Canadian Families

 

The new PR on arrival pilot programs represent a major advancement in addressing the evolving home care needs of Canada’s diverse population. They ensure that caregivers receive adequate support and that Canadian families benefit from high-quality care.

### Statements from Canadian Officials

**The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship**, emphasized the significance of the new programs:

“Caregivers are crucial in supporting Canadian families, and our programs must reflect their invaluable contributions. As we strive to establish a permanent caregivers program, these two new pilots will not only enhance support for caregivers but also ensure families receive the high-quality care they need.”

**The Honourable Rechie Valdez, Minister of Small Business**, expressed pride in the new initiatives:

“After listening to stories and feedback from caregivers across Canada, I am proud that we are taking concrete steps to create policies that support the caregiver community. Generations of caregivers have advocated for this vital pathway and have looked after our families and loved ones in Canada. Now is the time to give them the care they deserve.”

### Quick Facts

– In June 2014, there were over 60,000 individuals in the Live-in Caregiver Program. Today, less than 1% of that inventory remains.

– Under the 2024–2026 Immigration Levels Plan, Canada will admit over 15,000 caregivers as permanent residents.

– As of April 30, 2024, nearly 5,700 caregivers and their family members have become permanent residents since the launch of the Home Child Care Provider Pilot and the Home Support Worker Pilot in 2019.

These new pilot programs underscore Canada’s dedication to supporting caregivers and providing a secure pathway to permanent residency.

More details on the full eligibility criteria and application process will be available as the programs are fully launched.

Please contact and consult only an Indian Immigration Lawyer Mr. Prashant Ajmera of Ajmera Law Group at +919974253030 | email: info@ajmeralaw.com

May 17, 2024

IRCC – Canada immigration department receives 9000 fake or canceled student visa admission letters in 4 months!

In recent months Canada made several changes to their student visa rules including a limited number of students that can be admitted to Canada under student visa rules.

Here are some major changes!

  1. As of 24th April 2024 – Canadian students cannot work more than 20 hours outside the campus and from September 2024, off-campus working hours will be 24 per week.,
  1. Recent studies conducted in the US and Canada have shown that there is a considerable decline in academic performance for students working more than 28 hours per week and that working more than 24 hours per week increases the chances that a student will drop out of their program.
  2. Most countries that welcome international students set limits on the number of hours they may work while they study. Australia recently changed its policy to allow a student to work 48 hours every 2 weeks. In the US, students must meet additional criteria before being permitted to work off campus at all.
  3. In December 2023, the Government of Canada raised the cost-of-living threshold that students must meet to be approved for a study permit so they are financially prepared for life in Canada and are not as dependent on working. For 2024, a single applicant will need to show they have $20,635, representing 75% of LICO, in addition to their first year of tuition and travel costs. This change will apply to new study permit applications received on or after January 1, 2024.
  4. International students who begin a college program delivered through a public-private curriculum licensing arrangement on or after May 15, 2024, will not be eligible for a post-graduation work permit when they graduate. Those who already started this type of program prior to May 15, 2024, will still be able to access a post-graduation work permit, provided they meet all other criteria.
  5. The new letter of acceptance (LOA) verification process has been a success. Since its launch on December 1, 2023, through April 1, 2024, IRCC has
    1.  received almost 162,000 LOAs for verification
    2. confirmed nearly 142,000 LOAs as valid directly with designated learning institutions (DLIs)
    3. identified almost 9,000 LOAs that didn’t match any LOA issued by a DLI or that the DLI had already cancelled before the foreign national applied for a study permit
  1. For 2024, the cap is expected to result in approximately 360,000 approved study permits, a decrease of 35% from 2023. In the spirit of fairness, individual provincial and territorial caps have been established, weighted by population, which will result in much more significant decreases in provinces where the international student population has seen the most unsustainable growth.
  1. Starting September 1, 2024, international students who begin a study program that is part of a curriculum licensing arrangement will no longer be eligible for a post-graduation work permit upon graduation. Under curriculum licensing agreements, students physically attend a private college that has been licensed to deliver the curriculum of an associated public college. These programs have seen significant growth in attracting international students in recent years, though they have less oversight than public colleges and they act as a loophole with regards to post-graduation work permit eligibility.
  2. Graduates of master’s degree programs will soon be eligible to apply for a 3-year work permit. Under current criteria, the length of a post-graduation work permit is based solely on the length of an individual’s study program, hindering master’s graduates by limiting the amount of time they have to gain work experience and potentially transition to permanent residence.
  1. The open work permits will only be available to spouses of international students in master’s and doctoral programs. The spouses of international students in other levels of study, including undergraduate and college programs, will no longer be eligible.

Many more changes are expected in the coming weeks and months regarding Canada’s student visa and immigration rules.

I do not see these as strict rules, but rather as measures designed for students who wish to come to Canada to study and possibly settle there. However, due to the growing number of student visa applications and concerns about the quality of students coming to Canada, the government has realized that many students are not serious about their studies but are instead coming to work off-campus and earn money.

The reality is that these students are working off-campus in minimum-wage jobs, and due to taxation and the high cost of living, they can barely meet their living expenses, let alone save money or send it back home to pay off student loans.

These foreign students often arrive in Canada after completing the 12th grade or a bachelor’s degree, having never worked in their home country and lacking job skills, with a bare minimum knowledge of English, and unrealistic expectations of getting high-paying jobs.

My opinion is echoed in the Canadian immigration minister’s one of the press notes.

“Working off campus helps international students gain work experience and offset some of their expenses. As international students arrive in Canada, we want them to be prepared for life here and have the support they need to succeed. However, first and foremost, people coming to Canada as students must be here to study, not work. We will continue working to protect the integrity of our student program.”

– The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship

 In conclusion:

Hurry hurts. Coming to Canada for higher studies is a serious and life-changing experience, and the only way to truly benefit is by planning carefully, gathering comprehensive information, and consulting with university career counselors, official online resources, and immigration lawyers if necessary.

If you are using a student visa with the primary intention of working and earning money to build your life, you are likely in for a shock upon arriving in Canada.

 

April 20, 2024

How to Convert a Visitor Visa to a Work Permit in Canada for Indian Citizens?

Prior to 2021, Indian citizens were not permitted to convert any type of non-immigrant visa to another class of non-immigrant visa within Canada. However, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Canadian government made an exception, allowing visitors in Canada to apply for a work permit provided they met the program requirements. This initiative was extended until February 28, 2025, offering Indian citizens a unique opportunity to explore employment opportunities in Canada.

Here’s a comprehensive guide on how Indian citizens can convert their visitor visa to a work permit in Canada:

### Understanding the Program

The Canadian government introduced a special provision during the pandemic allowing visitors in Canada to apply for a work permit if they met certain criteria.

### Eligibility Criteria

1. **Job Offer:** You must have a job offer from a Canadian employer in a field where you have relevant education and work experience.

2. **Language Proficiency:** Preferably, you should have an IELTS score of 5.0 or above.

3. **Age Factor:** While not mandatory, being under the age of 35 can be advantageous, especially for future Permanent Residency (PR) applications.

### Steps to Obtain a Work Permit

1. **Employer’s Role:** Your Canadian employer must demonstrate to the Canadian Labour Department that they cannot find a suitable candidate in Canada for the job they are offering you.

2. **Labour Market Impact Analysis (LMIA):** If the Canadian government is satisfied with the employer’s proof of a shortage of workers, they will issue an LMIA, granting approval to the Canadian company.

3. **Application Process:** Based on the LMIA, you can apply for a work permit either within Canada if you are already in the country on a visitor visa, or at a Canadian embassy or consulate if you are outside of Canada.

### Important Considerations

– **Not Automatic:** It’s essential to understand that obtaining a work permit from a visitor visa is not automatic. Meeting the eligibility criteria and following the correct application process are crucial steps in securing a work permit in Canada.

### Conclusion

Converting a visitor visa to a work permit in Canada presents an excellent opportunity for Indian citizens to explore employment prospects in the country. By understanding the eligibility criteria and following the necessary steps outlined by the Canadian government, individuals can navigate this process successfully and embark on a new professional journey in Canada.

To explore your settlement options in the USA, schedule a consultation with Indian immigration lawyer Prashant Ajmera, the founder of Ajmera Law Group. Contact us at +919974253030 or email us at info@ajmeralaw.com. Discover the pathways to your Canadain dream with expert legal guidance.

March 9, 2024

Live, Work, and Thrive in Rural Alberta: Your Guide to the Alberta PNP Rural Renewal Stream

Looking for a welcoming community and a rewarding career in Canada?

The Alberta Provincial Nominee Program (AAIP) Rural Renewal Stream could be your perfect pathway to permanent residency!

This program streamlines immigration for skilled workers willing to settle and contribute to vibrant rural communities across Alberta.

Here’s what you need to know:

The Two-Step Process:

  1. Community Endorsement: The chosen community first identifies your skills and experience to fulfill local labor needs. They then issue an “Endorsement of Candidate” letter if you’re a good fit. Alternatively, refugee applicants can be endorsed through Alberta’s Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP) referral process.
  2. AAIP Application Submission: Once endorsed, you can officially apply to the AAIP for Provincial Nomination.

Meeting the Requirements:

  • Community Focus: You must intend to live and work in your designated rural community.
  • Community Endorsement: A valid “Endorsement of Candidate” letter is crucial.
  • Solid Job Offer: A full-time, 12-month+ job offer in an eligible occupation, with wages and benefits meeting or exceeding Alberta’s standards, is essential.
  • Licensing/Registration: Ensure you meet any provincial licensing requirements for your chosen profession.
  • Eligible Occupation: The job must be in an eligible NOC 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 category (with some exceptions).
  • Qualifying Work Experience: For temporary foreign workers, a minimum of 12 months of full-time work experience in the past 18 months (in Canada or abroad) is required. Specific conditions apply.
  • Language Proficiency: English language skills are mandatory, with the required level (CLB) varying by occupation (NOC level).
  • Education Credentials: A minimum of a high school diploma equivalent is necessary.
  • Settlement Funds (Temporary Workers Only): Show sufficient funds to support yourself and dependents if needed. (EMPP refugees exempt)

Benefits of Choosing Rural Alberta:

  • Welcoming Communities: Experience the warmth and support of a close-knit community.
  • Career Opportunities: Contribute your skills and build a fulfilling career in a thriving rural economy.
  • Beautiful Surroundings: Enjoy the breathtaking landscapes and outdoor activities Alberta offers.
  • Pathway to Permanent Residency: Gain permanent resident status and build a life in Canada.

Additional Resources:

Start your journey to a rewarding future in rural Alberta! Explore the AAIP Rural Renewal Stream and see if it’s the perfect fit for you.

Please note: This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for guidance on your specific situation.

To explore your settlement options in the USA, schedule a consultation with Indian immigration lawyer Prashant Ajmera, the founder of Ajmera Law Group. Contact us at +919974253030 or email us at info@ajmeralaw.com. Discover the pathways to your American dream with expert legal guidance.

January 24, 2024

📢 **Important Update on Canadian Student Visas! 🇨🇦**

For the first time in Canadian immigration history, a quota system has been introduced for non-immigrant student visas for the next two years. On January 23, 2024, the Canadian Immigration Minister announced a significant reduction, limiting the issuance of student visas to approximately 364,000 for the academic year starting September 2024. Here are the key points of this announcement:

1. **No Impact on Existing Students:** The quota will not affect existing students in Canada.

2. **Province and Territory Distribution:** The 364,000 quota will be distributed province and territory-wise and further allocated to designated educational institutes.

3. **Limited to College and Undergraduate Programs:** This quota applies to college and undergraduate degree holders for two years and does not affect master’s, doctorate, and students attending primary and secondary schools.

4. **Attestation Letter Requirement:** Colleges issuing admission letters must provide an attestation letter from the provincial government.

5. **Changes to Post-Graduation Work Permits:** Starting September 1, 2024, international students in curriculum licensing arrangement programs will no longer be eligible for a post-graduation work permit upon graduation.

6. **Extended Work Permit for Graduates:** Graduates of master’s and other short graduate-level programs will soon be eligible to apply for a 3-year work permit.

7. **Limited Open Work Permits:** Open work permits will only be available to spouses of international students in master’s and doctoral programs. Spouses of students in other levels of study, including undergraduate and college programs, will no longer be eligible.

8. **Recent Measures Introduced:**
– Updated cost-of-living requirements for study permit applicants as of January 1, 2024.
– Enhanced verification process for letters of acceptance submitted by applicants outside Canada since December 1, 2023.
– Upcoming targeted pilots in 2024 to support underrepresented cohorts of international students.

For more details, check the official announcement: [Canada.ca – Immigration News](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/news/2024/01/canada-to-stabilize-growth-and-decrease-number-of-new-international-student-permits-issued-to-approximately-360000-for-2024.html)

Stay informed and plan accordingly! 🌍🎓 #CanadianStudyVisa #InternationalStudents #ImmigrationNews

To explore your settlement options in Canada, schedule a consultation with Indian immigration lawyer Prashant Ajmera, the founder of Ajmera Law Group. Contact us at +919974253030 or email us at info@ajmeralaw.com. Discover the pathways to your American dream with expert legal guidance.

December 22, 2023

Navigating Immigration Opportunities: A Comparative Analysis of Alberta PNP Rural Entrepreneur Program and Canada Start-Up Visa

Introduction:

As an experienced immigration lawyer, I recognize the importance of selecting the right immigration pathway that aligns with an individual’s goals and aspirations. In this blog post, we will conduct an in-depth comparison between the Alberta Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Rural Entrepreneur Program and the Canada Start-Up Visa, shedding light on the distinctive features of each for aspiring immigrants.

Alberta PNP Rural Entrepreneur Program:

Designed to encourage entrepreneurial ventures in rural Alberta, the Rural Entrepreneur Program under the Alberta PNP aims to bolster economic development in less populated areas of the province.

Key Features:

  1. Regional Focus: The program specifically targets entrepreneurs willing to establish businesses in rural Alberta communities, contributing to local economic growth.
  2. Investment Requirement: Applicants must make a minimum investment in the proposed business and demonstrate their commitment to the long-term success of the venture.
  3. Job Creation: Successful candidates are expected to create jobs for Canadian citizens or permanent residents, fostering community development.

Canada Start-Up Visa Program:

The Canada Start-Up Visa Program is a federal initiative aimed at attracting innovative entrepreneurs who can contribute to the growth and competitiveness of the Canadian economy.

Key Features:

  1. Entrepreneurial Focus: The program targets individuals with a viable business idea and the potential to establish innovative and scalable enterprises.
  2. Designated Entities: Applicants must secure a commitment from designated Canadian entities, such as venture capital funds, angel investor groups, or business incubators.
  3. Permanent Residency Pathway: Successful candidates, along with their families, receive permanent residency, offering a direct pathway to Canadian citizenship.

Comparative Analysis:

  1. Geographic Focus: The Alberta PNP Rural Entrepreneur Program concentrates on fostering businesses in rural communities, and contributing to regional development. In contrast, the Canada Start-Up Visa has a broader national scope.
  2. Investment Requirements: While both programs have an investment component, the Alberta PNP Rural Entrepreneur Program emphasizes local economic impact, while the Canada Start-Up Visa focuses on the scalability and innovation of the proposed business.
  3. Long-Term Settlement: Both programs provide a pathway to permanent residency, offering immigrants the opportunity for long-term settlement in Canada.

Conclusion:

Choosing between the Alberta PNP Rural Entrepreneur Program and the Canada Start-Up Visa requires careful consideration of one’s entrepreneurial goals, geographic preferences, and the nature of the proposed business. As an expert immigration lawyer, I guide clients through this decision-making process, ensuring they understand the distinct features of each program and choose the pathway that aligns with their aspirations and contributes positively to their chosen community or the broader Canadian economy.

 

To explore your settlement options in Canada, schedule a consultation with Indian immigration lawyer Prashant Ajmera, the founder of Ajmera Law Group. Contact us at +919974253030 or email us at info@ajmeralaw.com. Discover the pathways to your American dream with expert legal guidance.

November 14, 2023

“Challenges for Many Indian Investors in Meeting Eligibility for Quebec’s Business Immigration Program to Canada IN 2024”

** Quebec Immigrant Investor Program (QIIP) Reopens in 2024**

In a significant development, the Government of Quebec has unveiled the final version of its updated immigration regulations, marking the reopening of the Quebec Immigrant Investor Program (QIIP) from January 1, 2024. This announcement is a positive stride forward, bringing fresh possibilities for prospective immigrants.

**Unique Business Immigration Program: QIIP’s Distinctive Features**

What sets the QIIP apart is its distinctive approach within the Canadian immigration landscape. Unlike other business immigration programs in the country, the QIIP does not mandate applicants to establish or purchase a business, employ Canadians, or invest their capital at risk. It stands out as the only passive investment business immigration program in Canada, offering an alternative route for those seeking immigration through investment.

**Eligibility Criteria for QIIP Applicants: Key Requirements**

To qualify for the QIIP, applicants must meet specific criteria:

1. **Management Experience:** Possess a minimum of 2 years of management experience acquired in the 5 years preceding the application.
2. **Net Worth:** Hold a legally accumulated net worth of CAD$2,000,000.
3. **Education:** Complete studies equivalent to secondary education in Quebec.
4. **Language Proficiency:** Demonstrate proficiency in the French language at an intermediate level (B2, Level 7).
5. **Financial Commitment:** Within 120 days of approval, make a CAD$200,000 contribution to the Government and a fully guaranteed CAD$1,000,000 five-year investment in a Government bond (financing available).
6. **Residency Requirement:** Obtain a three-year work permit and, within 2 years of permit issuance, meet the 12-month residency requirement – six months by the principal applicant and another six months by either the principal applicant or spouse.

**Next Steps: What to Expect in the Coming Weeks**

In the upcoming weeks, more information about the procedural aspects of the program is expected to be revealed by the government. We are committed to keeping you informed and will share updates as they become available.

**Promising Admission Targets for 2024: Clearing the Backlog**

Additionally, the government has announced admission targets for the upcoming year. In 2024, it plans to admit up to 7,900 individuals in the Quebec business categories, representing an 83% increase compared to the projections for 2023. This substantial increase is expected to expedite the processing of QIIP applications currently in the backlog with IRCC.

**Get in Touch: Your Questions Answered**

Should you have any queries about the QIIP or have clients expressing interest, we encourage you to reach out to us.

The author of this article is Mr. Prashant Ajmera, an Indian immigration lawyer and Canadian citizen. He is the founder of Ajmera Law Group and the author of two books, “Millionaires On The Book” and “How to Plan for Your Child’s Foreign Education.” Over the past 30 years, he has assisted and advised over 30,000 students and families on planning their foreign education and settlement. He regularly speaks at various forums on this subject.

Ajmera Law Group: Mo: +91 9974253030 | info@ajmeralaw.com | www.ajmeralaw.com

 

October 16, 2023

Canada, one of the friendliest and most picturesque countries in the world, welcomes immigrants from every corner of the world. For some, Canada is their dream destination to pursue higher education, and for most, it is their dream to become a Canadian citizen.

The country offers multiple paths to residency and eventual citizenship, with benefits from education to healthcare, employment opportunities, and voting rights. It doesn’t matter whether you wish to settle in Canada or are already residing and planning to take a step further; this blog will take you through the benefits of Canadian citizenship, which are the reasons you should opt for Canada citizenship by investment or the other available options. So, keep reading!

What are the Benefits of Canadian citizenship?

Canadian citizenship offers multiple benefits that help increase the residents’ life quality. Out of numerous advantages, some of the most important ones are;

  • Right to Vote

The citizens of Canada can vote in provincial, municipal, and federal elections, which allows them to contribute to shaping the future of their country, community, and economy.

For citizens of any country, the right to vote is one of the most important rights. It makes them feel at ease and ensures that the government is considering their interests and voices.

  • Right to Government and High-Security Job

Many government jobs in Canada require security clearance, which is typically limited to Canadian citizens. Additionally, internships for government positions during and after studying are often available exclusively to Canadian citizens.

  • Freedom to Travel

According to the VisaGuide Passport Index, the Canadian passport holds the 40th position globally as of October 2023, which means that holders of Canadian passports can travel to as many as 148 countries without a visa or with the facility of visa on arrival. This powerful passport allows access to countries/territories like the USA, UK, New Zealand, Qatar, France, Australia, and more.

  • Working holiday visa for your young Canadians

Canada offers a “Working Holiday” program for young Canadian citizens, allowing them to travel and work in certain countries such as the UK, Europe, Australia, New Zealand etc.  typically for up to 12 or 24 months. The Working Holiday program aims to promote cultural exchange and provide young Canadians with the opportunity to gain international work experience.

  • Special professional and business visa to USA

Canadian citizens do not require a visa to enter the United States for tourism or business purposes, thanks to the U.S.-Canada Agreement. There are certain visa classes available exclusively to Canadian citizens due to special agreements with the U.S. government under USMCA and NAFTA. These include the TN visa for Canadian professionals and E-1 (Treaty Trader) and E-2 (Treaty Investor) visas. Additionally, Canadian citizens can hold dual citizenship in both the USA and Canada.

  • World-class Education at 80% Fees

Canada enjoys a global reputation for the excellence of its education, drawing hundreds of thousands of international students annually for their higher education. In addition, the government offers its citizens abundant funding and scholarship opportunities, along with significant tuition fee reductions of up to 80% for university education and free education from grades 1 to 12.

  • Security and safety

Canada is one of the safest countries across the globe. It is known for a stable political climate, minimum crime rates, social justice, and, most importantly, for providing a secure and safe environment to everybody in the country. It is not surprising that Canada has consistently maintained its top positions in various reports as one of the best countries to live in.

This is one of the major factors to look for when planning to settle in any country, as it increases the standard of living and ensures the safety of loved ones.

  • Easy & Free Access to Healthcare

The country has several public healthcare-funded systems allowing citizens to access subsidized or free healthcare easily. It ensures the people of the country can get necessary medical attention without worrying about their financial hardships. It also displays the country’s commitment to its citizen’s health.

The Takeaway!

Canada, as a country, offers a pool of benefits to its citizens. It is also a land of opportunity for internationals looking forward to settling in the country. So, if you wish to enjoy the country’s beauty, people, nature, and opportunities, contact a Canada investor visa consultant or a consultancy that shows you the correct path to obtaining Canadian citizenship.

August 12, 2023

How to Determine Your Eligibility for Canada Immigration under Express Entry?

As a prominent immigration law firm in India with over 30 years of experience, Ajmera Law Group have been receiving numerous inquiries from Indian students and professionals who have discovered that they do not qualify for Canadian immigration after arriving in Canada on a student visa or work permit.

These individuals seek advice from our law firm, having paid substantial amounts of money based on false promises of job opportunities or guaranteed immigration to Canada.

In this article, we will guide you on how to conduct a self-assessment to determine whether you meet the requirements for Canadian immigration.

It’s important to note that whether you enter Canada as a student or on a work permit, you will be evaluated under the Canada Express Entry program, which consists of the following subclasses:

  1. Federal Skilled Workers Class (Express Entry Class)
  2. Canada Experience Class ( CEO Class)
  3. Canada Skilled Trade Class (Skill Trade Class)
  4. French Language Proficiency (Introduced in June 2023)
  5. Preferred Occupations (Introduced in June 2023)
  6. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) nominations from various Canadian provinces (available for 10 different provinces)

The minimum mandatory requirements for the above classes are as follows:

  1. Minimum One Year of Experience Related to Your Education: Many Indian students who rush to Canada face the challenge of lacking work experience in India and consequently struggle to find employment in Canada relevant to their education. As a result, they fail to qualify for Canadian immigration.
  1. Minimum IELTS Score of 6.0 or Higher: Some students may obtain a student visa or work permit with a low IELTS score and arrive in Canada. However, when it comes to applying for permanent residency (PR) in Canada, they fail to achieve the required high IELTS score and, therefore, do not obtain the necessary points for PR. Make sure you have done your assessment for immigration to Canada before you arrive in Canada.
  1. Job Offer as a Manager in Canada: Some individuals receive job offers in India to work as MANAGER in Canada and are misled by their agents, who claim that they will receive an additional 200 points for working as managers in Canada. This information is incorrect. The applicant must have a job offer as a manager in a National Occupational Classification (NOC) occupation at the 00 level. Please refer to the occupation table click here
  1. Minimum IELTS Score of 6.0 and Higher in Each Category: To register for Canadian immigration, you need a minimum score of 6.0 in each category of the IELTS exam and one year of experience related to your education. However, achieving only the minimum required score makes it highly unlikely that you will attain the necessary high CRS score for Canadian immigration. Many agents register applicants’ files on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website, only to inform them later that their scores are not high enough.
  1. Licensed Occupations (e.g., Dentist, Pharmacist, Physiotherapist, Chartered Accountant, and Civil Engineer, ETC.): In Canada, professions that require licensing are not automatically recognized upon completion of studies, as they are in India. To obtain a license, you must complete additional studies to make your Indian education equivalent to a Canadian bachelor’s degree, gain practical experience in Canada, and pass the licensing exam with sufficient fluency in the English language. In many Canadian provinces, you can only take the licensing exam if you are a PR or a citizen of Canada. Therefore, if you belong to one of these licensed professions and plan to settle in Canada, be cautious. Pursuing a master’s degree in Canada will not automatically grant you a license. Instead, focus on obtaining a license within Canada. Please check occupation and licensing requirements at the official site
  1. Preferred Age for Canadian Immigration: The preferred age for Canadian immigration in the skilled worker category is between 21 and 29. If you are older, you will lose five points per year. Therefore, if you are 35 or above, your chances of obtaining immigration become very low unless you have a job offer, a high IELTS score, and a blood relative in Canada.
  1. New Occupation List as of July 2023: On May 31, 2023, the IRCC announced that only applicants whose occupations are on the demand list will be invited to apply for Canadian immigration from the Express Entry pool. This new regulation applies to only 90 occupations. If your occupation is on this list, you can apply for Canadian immigration through our firm. The new occupation list in effect from July 2023 can be found on our blog page

To assist you in determining your eligibility, we recommend using the following resources:

(a) Visit this link to calculate your points:

(b) Visit this link to understand the points awarded for each criterion: 

(c) Visit and check the Express Entry rounds of invitations to see the latest cut-off scores:

Lastly, it’s crucial to remember that going to Canada to study does not guarantee immediate job opportunities or automatic immigration.

For a comprehensive understanding of all your options, please visit Ajmera Law Blog or watch videos on Ajmera Law  YouTube Channel

The author of this article/blog is Prashant Ajmera, an Indian immigration lawyer and the founder of Ajmera Law Group. He has been a Canadian citizen for the past 30 years and is also the author of two books: “Millionaire of the Move” and “How to Plan for Your Child’s Foreign Education: Myth vs. Reality”.  He has been assisting and advising Indian businessmen to establish businesses in Canada since 1993.  Consult us