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

July 4, 2023

Foreign Education Loan in India – A Boon or Bane?

There are numerous government schemes, both at the central and state levels, that promote foreign education loans for Indian students aspiring to study abroad. Additionally, several major Indian banks are also offering favorable terms and conditions for these loans.

Recent data from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) reveals that Indian parents have remitted a substantial amount of money for foreign education, indicating a growing trend. The total remittance includes fees for foreign education, financial gifts to children, and other expenses, amounting to a significant sum.

Given the increasing demand for foreign education, financial institutions are actively vying for a share of this market by providing education loans to Indian students.

However, it is essential to assess whether these loans are a blessing or a curse based on the success rate of Indian students in achieving their educational goals and the potential for career prospects and settlement abroad.

To understand the foreign education market, one must recognize that it is predominantly dominated by unregulated agents and consultants across India.

In the past, many Indian professionals who immigrated to various countries believed that studying abroad guaranteed a successful life. While this may have held true a decade or two ago, it is certainly not the case in 2023.

Historically, students primarily pursued master’s degrees abroad for a duration of one year at university-level institutions. During this period, the cost of education was manageable for families, and students often worked part-time jobs. After completing their master’s degrees, they were well-positioned to secure jobs, particularly in English-speaking countries like the USA and Canada.

However, the current trend in studying abroad extends beyond master’s degrees. Students now consider pursuing undergraduate studies, including postgraduate diploma programs, or enrolling in private colleges and universities. Unfortunately, many overlook crucial factors such as the cost of education, English language proficiency requirements, and relevant work experience in India.

Let’s consider an example of a typical middle-class Indian student aspiring to study abroad and settle in Canada or a similar country.

Several factors need to be considered:

  1. Foreign Education Cost Consideration: The cost of a typical four-year university education can range from 1 to 1.5 crores in terms of tuition fees and related expenses. This financial burden is often unaffordable or undesirable for many families. As a result, these students and parents are lured into pursuing the “foreign dream” by opting for private or semi-private colleges, which offer education similar to Indian polytechnic or diploma programs. The cost of education in such institutions ranges from 8 to 15 lakhs, significantly lower than that of universities.

 

  1. English Language Consideration: Many students aiming to study abroad face challenges with English language proficiency for various reasons. Consequently, the demand for English language classes has grown in India. Low scores in English language proficiency tests often hinder Indian students’ admission into university programs, whether they have completed their 12th grade or hold three or four-year bachelor’s degrees. These students are then redirected to the aforementioned private or semi-private foreign colleges.

 

  1. Rushing Abroad without Indian Work Experience: The prevalent belief that studying abroad guarantees a successful future has led students, parents, teachers, professors, and career counsellors to advise immediate relocation. Unfortunately, much of this advice fails to consider the crucial aspects of studying abroad, settling, and understanding the immigration rules of the respective countries.

Now, let’s examine the immigration systems of the three most popular destinations for studying and settling abroad: Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

These countries’ immigration processes typically involve criteria and point-based systems. If applicants meet or exceed a certain score threshold, they become eligible for permanent immigration.

The criteria for permanent immigration generally include the following factors:

  1. Education in India and abroad
  2. Age
  3. Minimum 1 to 4 years of relevant work experience in India and abroad
  4. English language proficiency score
  5. Blood relatives residing in the respective countries
  6. Job offer from a company
  7. Spouse’s education, work experience, and fluency in the English language

The strong belief among Indian students and parents that studying abroad guarantees a successful life is often fuelled by unregulated agents and consultants. These agents promise low-cost education, admission with low English language proficiency scores, and no requirement for prior work experience in India.

Unfortunately, these three factors can lead to disastrous career outcomes for Indian students. They struggle to find employment related to their education, face challenges with English language proficiency, and realize that the courses they pursued are not in demand in their host countries. These factors collectively hinder their job prospects, immigration prospects, and ability to settle abroad.

Foreign education loans obtained from Indian financial institutions can become a curse rather than a blessing for students and parents. When students are unable to secure employment or immigration status in their host country their families in India are unable to repay the loan EMIs, which can result in financial hardship, leading to the loss of family property.

It is alarming to note that in the past 3-4 years, a significant number of Indian students in Canada have resorted to extreme measures such as suicide, falling victim to immigration fraud, or engaging in criminal activities due to the inability of their Indian families to support them.

Similarly, studying in the USA can lead to disappointment for many students as they face challenges in obtaining an H1B visa. Moreover, the waiting period for a USA green card for Indian students as of July 2023 is 12-20 years, and without an increase in the green card quota by the US government, this waiting time may further escalate.

Consequently, studying and settling abroad should be a decision made after carefully exploring ALL available options rather than rushing into a foreign country without considering the long-term implications.

About the Author:

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

June 15, 2023

A work permit issued under Sec 205 (a) of the IRPA rules known as a significant benefit to Canada work permit is a temporary work permit that allows foreign entrepreneurs and self-employed individuals to work in Canada without having to obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).

This work permit is designed to attract entrepreneurs and self-employed individuals who can make a significant contribution to the Canadian economy.

To be eligible for the work permit, you must meet the following requirements:

  • You must be a citizen of a country that is eligible for the work permit program.
  • You must have a valid passport and visa if required.
  • You must have a business plan that demonstrates that you have the skills, experience, and resources to start or operate a successful business in Canada.
  • You must have enough money to support yourself and your family while you are in Canada.

If you are eligible for this work permit, you can apply for one through the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. The application process typically takes several months.

Once you have been granted a work permit, you can live and work in Canada for up to two years. You can also apply to extend your work permit for additional two-year periods, as long as you continue to meet the requirements of the program.

If you are successful in establishing a successful business in Canada, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residence through the Self-Employed Immigrant Program (SEIP). The SEIP is a points-based immigration program that assesses applicants on factors such as their business experience, education, language skills, and ability to contribute to the Canadian economy or under Canada express entry program.

This work permit is a great opportunity for entrepreneurs and self-employed individuals who want to start or operate a business in Canada. If you have the skills, experience, and resources to succeed, this work permit can help you make your dream a reality.

Here are some of the benefits of obtaining a work permit:

  • You can live and work in Canada for up to two years.
  • You can extend your work permit for additional two-year periods, as long as you continue to meet the requirements of the program.
  • You may be eligible to apply for permanent residence through the Self-Employed Immigrant Program (SEIP) or Express Entry Program.
  • You can gain valuable experience working in a Canadian business environment.
  • You can network with other entrepreneurs and business leaders in Canada.
  • You can build a strong foundation for your future business in Canada.

If you are considering applying for this work permit, here are some of the things you need to do:

  • Research the Canadian business environment.
  • Develop a business plan that demonstrates your skills, experience, and resources.
  • Gather evidence of your financial support.
  • Apply for this work permit through the IRCC website.
  • Prepare for an interview with an IRCC officer.

This work permit is a great way to start or operate a business in Canada. If you are an entrepreneur or self-employed individual, I encourage you to explore this option and other options.

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

June 8, 2023
Applicants in the following occupations will be invited to apply under the New Express Entry Rules for the Canada Skilled Worker program. 

The applicant who has French skills will be getting preference and will get additional points.

1. Healthcare Occupations
Audiologists and speech-language pathologists311121
Chiropractors312011
Dentists311101
Dieticians and nutritionists311211
Education counsellors413201
General practitioners and family physicians311021
Instructors of persons with disabilities422032
Kinesiologists and other professional occupation in therapy and assessment312041
Licensed practical nurses321012
Massage therapists322012
Medical laboratory assistants and related technical occupations331013
Medical laboratory technologists321202
Medical radiation technologists321212
Medical sonographers321222
Nurse aides, orderlies and patient service associates331023
Nurse practitioners313021
Nursing co-ordinators and supervisors313001
Occupational therapists312031
Optometrists311111
Other assisting occupations in support of health services331093
Other practitioners of natural healing322092
Other professional occupations in health diagnosing and treating312091
Other technical occupations in therapy and assessment321092
Paramedical occupations321022
Pharmacy technical assistants and pharmacy assistants331033
Physician assistants, midwives and allied health professionals313031
Physiotherapists312021
Psychologists312001
Registered nurses and registered psychiatric nurses313011
Respiratory therapists, clinical perfusionists and cardiopulmonary technologists321032
Specialists in clinical and laboratory medicine311001
Specialists in surgery311011
Therapists in counselling and related specialized therapies413011
Traditional Chinese medicine practitioners and acupuncturists322002
Veterinarians311031

 

 

2. Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) occupations
Architects212001
Architecture and science managers200110
Business systems specialists212211
Civil Engineers213001
Computer and information systems managers200120
Computer engineers (except software engineers and designers)213111
Computer systems developers and programmers212301
Cybersecurity specialists212201
Data scientists212111
Database analysts and data administrators212231
Electrical and electronics engineers213101
Engineering managers200100
Industrial and manufacturing engineers213211
Information systems specialists212221
Land surveyors212031
Landscape Architects212011
Mathematicians, statisticians and actuaries212101
Metallurgical and materials engineers213221
Natural and applied science policy researchers, consultants and program officers414001
Software developers and programmers212321
Software engineers and designers212311
Urban and land use planners212021
Web designers212331
Web developers and programmers212341

 

3. Trade Occupations
Residential and commercial installers and servicers732003
Elevator constructors and mechanics724062
Machine fitters724052
Heating, refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics724022
Construction millwrights and industrial mechanics724002
Carpenters723102
Plumbers723002
Electricians (except industrial and power system)722002
Welders and related machine operators721062
Contractors and supervisors, other construction trades, installers, repairers and servicers720142

 

4. Transport Occupations
Aircraft assemblers and aircraft assembly inspectors932003
Transport truck drivers733003
Railway traffic controllers and marine traffic regulators726042
Engineer officers, water transport726032
Deck officers, water transport726022
Air traffic controllers and related occupations726012
Air pilots, flight engineers and flying instructors726002
Aircraft mechanics and aircraft inspectors724042
Railway carmen/women724032
Managers in transportation700200

 

5. Agriculture and agri-food occupations
Contractors and supervisors, landscaping, grounds maintenance and horticulture services820312
Agricultural service contractors and farm supervisors820302
Butchers- retail and wholesale632013

For an assessment of your case for Canada immigration contact our law firm – AJMERA LAW GROUP

May 18, 2023

Financial and Child’s Foreign Education & Settlement Options and Planning

“Your options and issues for study in Canada after 12th grade from India” 

Planning for a child’s foreign education particularly in Canada and settlement options after completing 12th grade in India, requires careful consideration and financial planning.

While studying in Canada offers a plethora of opportunities for Indian students, it is crucial for students and parents to thoroughly evaluate the available options and make informed decisions rather than rushing into the process solely based on the desire to reach Canada quickly.

Canada, with its esteemed universities, wide-ranging academic programs, and inclusive environment, has emerged as a preferred destination for students aspiring to receive a top-notch international education.

However, the path to studying in Canada entails various factors that must be carefully weighed and understood before making a decision.

One essential aspect that requires thoughtful attention is the financial implications of studying abroad. Pursuing higher education in Canada involves tuition fees, living expenses, and potentially other costs such as accommodation, transportation, and healthcare. It is crucial for students and their families to evaluate their financial capacity and explore available scholarships, grants, and financial aid options to ensure a sustainable and well-planned educational journey.

Moreover, settlement options and long-term planning also play a significant role in the decision-making process. It is important to consider the potential avenues for career development, post-graduation work permits, and opportunities for permanent residency in Canada.

Understanding the immigration policies, eligibility criteria, and requirements for staying and working in Canada post-graduation will assist in making informed choices that align with the student’s aspirations and future plans.

Furthermore, it is essential to prioritize a comprehensive evaluation of the available academic programs and institutions in Canada. Students should explore the courses, specializations, and co-op/internship opportunities provided by universities to ensure that their chosen program aligns with their interests, career goals, and industry demands.

Conducting thorough research and seeking guidance from immigration lawyers or mentors can help students make well-informed decisions about their academic path in Canada.

In conclusion, while studying in Canada after completing 12th grade in India presents exciting prospects, it is essential to approach the decision-making process with careful consideration and planning. Financial implications, settlement options, and the alignment of academic programs with career goals should be thoroughly evaluated to ensure a successful and well-prepared educational journey.

By taking a thoughtful and informed approach, students and parents can navigate the path to studying in Canada and set the stage for a rewarding and fulfilling future.

The above charts in the image give you your quick six options.

-The author of this article/blog is Prashant Ajmera, an Indian immigration lawyer, Canadian citizen, 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

 

May 9, 2023

Typically, if you want to work in Canada, you need to find a Canadian employer who can offer you a job that matches your education and work experience. The employer then needs to apply to the Canadian government for approval, which involves a Labor Market Impact Analysis (LMIA). This LMIA approval allows you to apply for a work permit in Canada.

However, there are some job offers or job categories exempt from the LMIA requirement. This means you can start working for a Canadian employer or even start your own business and work for yourself, which can eventually qualify you for immigration to Canada under the Canada Experience Class.

Following are three categories of workers or professionals or businesspeople who can work or start businesses in Canada without LMIA and without IELTS. This category is different from the Canada PNP business immigration program and the Canada Start-Up Visa program.

1. Significant Benefit to Canada: If you can demonstrate that the job offer presented to you will bring substantial economic, cultural, or social benefits to Canada in your work permit application to the Canadian government, you and the Canadian company are exempt from obtaining LMIA. This type of work permit is known as a C-10 work permit, and you may begin working for the Canadian company as soon as your application is approved.

2. Entrepreneur and Self-employed person: This class has two subcategories. The first is for those who seek temporary entry, typically for seasonal purposes, to operate their existing business, often self-employed individuals. The second is for those who want to start or run a business to meet the requirements for provincial nomination or selection as an entrepreneur, including Quebec, or for the federal Start-up Business Class.

The International Mobility Program (IMP) created this Work Permit, enabling foreign entrepreneurs and investors to obtain a work permit in Canada as self-employed individuals. The initial work permit is typically valid for two years and can be renewed multiple times, provided that the business in Canada remains active and profitable. Self-employed entrepreneurs and business owners operating under this work permit may eventually qualify for permanent residency in Canada. This is also referred to as a C-11 work permit.

3. Intra-company Transfer: (similar to USA L1 A & B Visa): The Canada C-12 work permit, also known as the intra-company category, enables international companies to temporarily relocate skilled employees to Canada to enhance management effectiveness, expand Canadian exports, and improve competitiveness in foreign markets.

To be eligible for a work permit under this category, intra-company transferees must meet certain requirements. Firstly, they must be currently employed by a foreign or Indian company and seeking to work in a parent, subsidiary, branch, or affiliate of that company in Canada. Secondly, they must be transferred to a position in an executive, senior managerial, or specialized knowledge capacity. Lastly, they must have been continuously employed by a foreign or Indian company that intends to transfer them to Canada in a similar full-time position.

Each of these immigration categories requires extensive documentation, including a detailed and realistic business plan, market research, and evidence of the applicant’s education, relevant experience, and English language proficiency. If you are a successful businessman in India and wish to expand your business in Canada, one of these categories could be ideal for you to move to Canada immediately and eventually obtain permanent residency.

Obtaining permanent residency in Canada could also result in an 80% reduction in university education fees for your children and the opportunity to apply for Canadian citizenship after two years of permanent residency. Canadian citizenship may also allow you to apply for E1 and E2 business visas for the United States.

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

 

April 20, 2023

STUDY AND IMMIGRATE TO CANADA AFTER FOUR YEARS OF BACHELOR OF ENGINEERING FROM INDIA

If you’re considering studying in Canada and pursuing immigration options after earning your four-year Bachelor of Engineering degree from India, here are some options to explore:

  1. Consider taking a one or two-year diploma program at a private or semi-private college in Canada. This can give you one or three years of work permit, which can help you gain experience related to your education. You can then apply under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), Canadian Experience Class, or Express Entry for immigration to Canada.
  2. You can also take a one-year Master’s degree program at a selected university in Canada. After completing your degree, you can get a one-year work permit in Canada and find a job related to your education. With one year of experience, you can apply for a Permanent Residency (PR) in Canada.
  3. Another option is to take two years of full-time experience in India related to your engineering degree. After that, you can take a one-year Master’s degree program at a selected university in Canada and get a job related to your education. Based on your experience in India, you can apply for PR of Canada as soon as you finish your Master’s degree program.
  4. You can also do a two-year Master’s degree in India, get three years of experience related to your engineering degree in India, and if you have a high IELTS score, apply for direct PR of Canada under Express Entry.
  5. If you’re interested in business management, consider studying in a certain province of Canada for a two-year program related to it. This can give you three years of work permit, which can allow you to start your own business in Canada and apply for immigration.
  6. Another option is to get a visitor visa to Canada, find a company in Canada that’s related to offering you a job related to your education and experience in India, and ask the company to apply for LMIA (Labor Market Impact Assessment). Once approved, you can apply for a work permit of Canada from within Canada. After two years, you can apply for immigration under the Canada Experience Class, Express Entry, or PNP skilled worker immigration. If the job offer is on a permanent basis, you can apply for direct PR under Express Entry.
  7. Finally, while waiting in India, you can find a company in Canada that’s related to offering you a job related to your education and experience in India. Ask the company to apply for LMIA, and on approval of LMIA, apply for a work permit of Canada outside of Canada. After two years, you can apply for immigration under the Canada Experience Class, Express Entry, or PNP skilled worker immigration. If the job offer is on a permanent basis, you can apply for direct PR under Express Entry.

It’s important to note that each option has its own processing time, cost, eligibility requirements, and required IELTS band. It’s highly recommended that you seek legal consultation with an immigration lawyer like Prashant Ajmera of Ajmera Law Group to better understand your options and determine the best path for you.

To consult an immigration lawyer Mo: +91 9974253030 | Email: info@ajmeralaw.com |www.ajmeralaw.com

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April 17, 2023

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After completing a three-year bachelor’s degree in India, like B. Com, B.Sc., B.A., BBA, BCA, etc., there are several options to consider for studying in Canada. Rushing into decisions without careful consideration, planning and advice could negatively impact your career or immigration prospects.

Here are some options to explore:

  1. Pursuing a one or two-year post-graduate diploma in Canada is a common option for Indian students. This can lead to obtaining a post-graduate work permit, which may make it easier to apply for Canadian immigration. However, if you do not secure a job related to your education, it may be challenging to obtain Canadian immigration.

2. Pursuing a two-year MBA or master’s degree program at a Canadian university is another option. Studying at selected universities and gaining relevant work experience in Canada may qualify you to apply for immigration to Canada more easily.

3. Gaining 2-3 years of full-time work experience in India, focusing on your desired future career, is a third option. Afterward, you can apply for a two-year MBA or master’s degree program in Canada. Depending on the program you choose, your Indian work experience, and the appropriate IELTS score, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency (PR) in Canada immediately after completing your degree while working under a post-graduate work permit.

4. If you come from a business family background and want to settle in Canada, consider gaining two years of business experience in India with your family. Then, apply for a two-year business administration program in Canada, such as a PGDBM or master’s degree at a university. Afterward, you can obtain a three-year work permit and start your own business instead of looking for a job. With the right support, your business can facilitate your immigration to Canada.

It’s important to note that each option has its own processing time, cost, eligibility requirements, and required IELTS band. It’s highly recommended that you seek legal consultation with an immigration lawyer like Prashant Ajmera of Ajmera Law Group to better understand your options and determine the best path for you. Mo: +91 9974253030 | Email: info@ajmeralaw.com |www.ajmeralaw.com

To download PDF file of the blog –click here