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

Download this Blog in PDF

April 17, 2023

To download PDF file of the blog –click here

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

April 15, 2023

During this time of economic growth, Canadian employers are experiencing significant labor shortages. To address this issue, they can still explore the option of hiring foreign citizens who are on visitor visas. This is possible because the temporary public policy, which allows visitors to apply for work visas within Canada during the COVID era, has been extended for two years until February 28, 2025, as announced by the IRCC.

Under this policy, foreign nationals who are currently in Canada as visitors and receive a valid job offer can apply for a work permit without having to leave the country. Moreover, visitors who have held a work permit within the last 12 months can request interim work authorization to start working for their new employer more quickly.

Previously, applicants needed to apply for their initial work permit before coming to Canada, and those who were already in Canada with visitor status when their work permit was approved needed to leave Canada to be issued their work permit. With this new policy in place, leaving Canada is no longer necessary.

To be eligible, an applicant must have valid visitor status on the day of application, a job offer supported by a labour market impact assessment (LMIA) or an LMIA-exempt offer of employment, and submit an application for an employer-specific work permit no later than February 28, 2025. Additionally, the applicant must meet all other standard admissibility criteria.

As a leading Canada immigration lawyer in India, we suggest that all Indian citizens looking to take advantage of these extended rules to conduct thorough research about the job market in different parts of Canada, identify prospective employers, and prepare a professional-looking resume in PDF format to send to companies and post on job portals in Canada. They should also be available for video conferencing for potential interviews and be prepared to travel to Canada if required.

Although our Indian Immigration law firm does not offer services in securing jobs in Canada for applicants, as a trusted Canada immigration consultant in Ahmedabad, we can assist with the job search process and legally process LMIA applications, work permit applications within or outside Canada, and visitor visa applications if necessary.

For more information and assistance in your Canada immigration matter please contact Ajmera Law Group – click here

Mr. Prashant Ajmera is an Indian immigration lawyer, Canadian citizen, and author of two books – see his video profile 

March 21, 2023

As a wanderer and a student, your travel bucket list undoubtedly includes the land of a maple leaf, which is none other than Canada. It is known as maple leaf’s land not only because they are grown across the country but also because it signifies unity.

The picturesque beauty, multicultural society, word class education, friendly policies, supportive government, excellent career opportunities, and of course, good money are some of the reasons the country attracts a high amount of Indian immigrants as travelers, work professionals, and obviously students.

While travelers and students show great enthusiasm and dedication for their visa approval, there are some who misuse their zeal for personal and monetary benefits. Therefore, if you are looking to travel to Canada from India, you need to be aware of a few things or rules laid down by the Canadian government to save your visa from rejection and your money from scammers.

As a leading Canada immigration lawyer in India, we are listing those rules to make things easy for you.

Hiring a Visa Agent v/s Immigration Lawyer in India

As an Indian, it is possible to apply for a Canadian visa by yourself or through an agent, also known as a representative in the North American country – Canada. These agents in India are not regulated and licensed by the Government of India and hence you should be extremely careful before you hire these agents or consultants in India. In compare to that an immigration lawyer in India can provide you better service and assess your case before the application is submitted.

The Canadian government considers lawyers, Quebec notaries, consultants, or paralegals who are registered with the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants as authorized agents or representatives. In case you choose to proceed with a paid or unpaid unauthorized agent or representative, your application may be returned or refused. Therefore, be aware and choose your representatives wisely.

It will be wise to pay small fees and get a legal opinion in writing rather than depending oral promise made by agents.

Repercussion of Fraud

Attaching or sending fake documents with your visa application is nothing short of a crime. It is a serious fraud that can land you in serious consequences wherein your application will suffer rejection, you will not be able to apply for the upcoming five years, and you can face a charge or registration of permanent fraud with IRCC.

You will be responsible even if it is your representative’s idea to submit fake documents or cook a story on your visa application. Hence, make it a point not to sign a blank form or application handed over by the representative. Also, ensure the accuracy of the information and supporting documents before signing the application.

Cost of Application 

The official website of the Canadian government lists the tentative cost of application, which is as follows.

Visitor visa₹6,000 ($100)
Work permit₹9,300 ($155)
Open work permit₹15,500 ($255)
Study permit₹9,100 ($150)
Biometrics₹5,100 ($85)

There is no distinction concerning gender, course, number of applications, and more when it comes to the cost you need to bear for your permit or visa application. It remains the same for everyone. Thus, you should be aware of scammers charging hefty amounts just for the application in the name of surety.

Remember, no one, including representatives with a high success ratio, can assure you of a visa, permit, or PR. Another thing to know is that you can schedule a biometric appointment for free and only need to bear the cost of samples taken at the center. In addition, the authorities will automatically issue visas without any additional cost once your work or study permit is given a green signal.

Student Visa Scams 

There are lot many student visa scams going around in the market. As a Canada immigration consultant in Ahmedabad, we remind you that no lawyer, consultant, or even a representative can guarantee a visa, especially in the absence of an acceptance letter. So, do not pay and trust firms or individuals trying to scam you with visa or permit assurance.

Some things to consider before applying for a study permit are.

  • Ensure that your educational facility is Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
  • Do not apply for a student visa or study permit without an acceptance letter.
  • Pay your academic fees directly to the institution.
  • Check if your institution offers help for international students.

Unreal Job Opportunities

It is a general case scenario that internet fraud will lure people in the name of permanent job offers in Canada. However, it is not a piece of cake either for you to secure a job in Canada or for a Canadian company to open a position for foreign residents.

In reality, Canadian companies should try to hire talents from their country. In case it doesn’t work, the organization needs the government’s approval in the form of a document that states permission to recruit people from foreign countries. The document is known as labour market impact assessment (LMIA) and costs about $1,000 CAN, which is around ₹60,200 for every individual they wish to recruit. Think and research twice or thrice about the company and opportunity before paying your agent for the offer and help.

Wrapping Up

Don’t let anyone hinder your dream to settle, work or study in Canada. The country offers various visas with different eligibility criteria, and for business or investment enthusiasts, Canada is also open to citizenship through investment options.

Be sure to apply for a visa through an authorized agent or representative for a smooth process, and to know more about Canadian citizenship by investment for Indian, contact us.

Collect information, think & make plan before you decide to study & settle abroad

  1. Canada to deport 700 Indian students as visa documents found to be fake
  2. Recent Deaths of Indian International Students Point to Disturbing Trend
  3. Haryana Man’s Suicide Over Canada Student Visa: “It Arrived When He Was Gone”
  4. Spate of deaths: India’s missions in Canada to create database of students
  5. Dozens of International Students Are Dying in Canada. The Federal Government Isn’t Doing Anything.
  6. Rise in Suicides Prompts Punjabi Students in Canada to Mobilize Against Wage Theft
  7. Heartbreaking Reports of International Indian Students in Canada dying young in Tragic circumstances.
  8. Jarring notes: Issues Indian students face in Canada
  9. International Students Crisis in Canada
  10. Indian International Students’ Suicide Cases in Canada are alarming – Harminder in Tahir Gora’s Show
  11. Suicides Have Spiked Among Canada’s International Students
  12. Five Indian students killed in Canada road accident
  13. Advertisement by Government of Canada in the Indian Newspapers in English, Hindi, Punjabi & Gujarati
September 19, 2022

Are you planning to start your immigration process to Canada? Then this blog is for you.

A large number of Indian citizens are looking for permanent residence and eventually citizenship of Canada as living there entails many benefits. The first and foremost benefit is greater employment opportunities.

Canada also offers a high quality of life and free universal healthcare to its residents. This is what attracts immigrants to Canada from all over the world. Additionally, the country has one of the lowest crime rates in the world. It is country with one of the most abundant natural resources and natural scenery.

For its economic growth, the Canadian government is actively looking to attract foreign workers as well as investors.

Canada is the first country in the world to introduce a business immigration program and has always remained at the forefront in attracting entrepreneurs, investors and new talent globally. The country and its provinces offer many different investment programs through which one can obtain permanent residency. Whatever program one chooses, one is obliged to go through the necessary immigration process. So, let’s start with the mistakes one must avoid before and during the application process.

1. Business exploratory trip:

Before applying for residency of Canada under any business immigration program, it is advisable to undertake a business exploratory trip to explore the business opportunities. To visit Canada, obtaining a visitor visa becomes necessary. Before submitting a visitor visa application of Canada, it is important to ensure that all details in the application are consistent with all your facts and documents. Incorrect or inconsistent information in the visitor visa application can create problems for future business immigration application.

2. Language test:

Applying for a Canada business immigration visa or start-up visa requires a minimum score of 5 bands in IELTS. It is important to have this minimum score before applying for any business immigration program of Canada. Adverts that proclaim that they can help you obtain residency of Canada with an IELTS score of less than 5 bands are misleading and nothing more than a scam to entice vulnerable customers.

3. Related business:

Ensure that the business you plan to start (if it is a new business) or buy (if it is an existing business) in Canada is related to the business you are already operating and managing in your home country. We meet many clients who are in the real estate development business in India but wish to open a retail business in Canada. This can cause many difficulties in obtaining approval from Canadian government authorities.

4. Investment amount:

The basic investment requirement for Canada under many of its business immigration programs is between CD$ 100,000 to CD$ 200,000. However, most Indian business persons presume that just by investing this requisite amount they can obtain permanent residence of Canada. This is not true. This investment amount is just one of the many requirements. In addition to the investment, the business activity you wish to pursue in Canada must meet the Canadian government’s guidelines.

5. Investing in a business owned by family or friends:

There is a large Indian community in Canada and many Indian business persons feel comfortable in making an investment in their relatives’ or friends’ businesses. They feel this will ensure the safety and security of their investment. As such there is no bar to such an investment. However, our experience shows that such applications (where investment is in a relative’s/friend’s business) are scrutinized very closely because the government wants to ensure that the investment made is a real and not just a ploy to obtain immigration of Canada.

6. Not looking for proper guidance:

Many businesspersons prefer to complete the immigration application process themselves. But looking at the complexity of the process, it is recommended that applicants consult a qualified and experienced immigration lawyer for guidance. The paperwork involved is so complex and plentiful that only with the help of an experienced and knowledgeable lawyer can success be ensured.

Conclusion

Canada has been voted one of the best countries to live in year after year. If you wish to immigrate to Canada under one of its business immigration programs, it is advisable that you avoid the mistakes mentioned above. It is strongly recommended that you consult a qualified lawyer specializing in Canadian immigration to ease the process. Our law firm can help you every step of the way to ensure success.