via canada

In our ongoing blog series exploring the different paths Indians take to settle in the United States (US), our previous discussions highlighted the significance of education in the US as a foundation for immigration. We examined how pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees within the diverse educational system of the US can create strong foundations and open doors to a wide array of opportunities within the dynamic American job market. We also discussed how many Indian professionals enter the US through employment, often facilitated by the H1B visa, which allows US companies to employ foreign workers in specialized fields. Building upon that exploration of academic pathways, we now turn our attention to an alternative route: utilizing Canada as a steppingstone towards eventual migration to the US. This shift in focus will allow us to provide a broader perspective on the multifaceted nature of Indian migration to the US, acknowledging the strategic role that Canada can play for some.

Canada has emerged as an attractive immigration destination for people across the globe for numerous reasons. Its welcoming immigration policies are a key draw, with various programs designed to facilitate the entry of skilled workers, families, and refugees, offering clear pathways to permanent residency and citizenship. The country's strong emphasis on multiculturalism is another significant factor, creating a social fabric where diverse cultures coexist and are respected, promoting tolerance and understanding. Beyond this, Canada consistently ranks high in quality-of-life indices, boasting universal healthcare, robust social welfare programs, a commitment to environmental protection, and major cities that are consistently ranked among the most livable in the world. This combination of factors makes Canada a desirable place to live and work, offering both stability and opportunity. Canada's emphasis on skilled immigration aims to attract talented individuals who can contribute to its economy and society, ensuring continued growth and prosperity.

For those seeking higher education, Canada provides excellent opportunities. Canadian universities and colleges offer quality education in diverse fields, fostering critical thinking, research skills, and innovation, and completing a study program in Canada can open pathways to permanent residency. Canada's immigration system has been strategically designed to favor individuals with Canadian education 

and work experience, acknowledging their familiarity with Canadian society, culture, and the labor market, making it easier for graduates to obtain permanent resident status. This advantage is often realized through programs like the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program, which allows international graduates to work in Canada after completing their studies, thereby enhancing their eligibility for permanent residency under programs like the Canadian Experience Class within the Express Entry system.

Individuals with quality education from any part of the world, including India, have diverse avenues for immigration to Canada, each with its own set of requirements and objectives. These programs cater to a range of profiles, from skilled professionals and entrepreneurs to those seeking family reunification. While the specifics of immigration policies and programs can be complex and are subject to change as Canada responds to evolving demographic and economic trends, the general process for immigration from India typically involves a detailed assessment of the applicant's human capital. This assessment carefully evaluates factors such as the applicant's age, educational qualifications (including credentials and any Canadian educational experience), the length and nature of their work experience, and their demonstrated proficiency in English or French through standardized language tests. Canada's Express Entry system has become a foundation of skilled worker immigration, streamlining the management of applications for permanent residence under programs like the Federal Skilled Worker Program (for skilled foreign workers), the Federal Skilled Trades Program (for skilled tradespersons), and the Canadian Experience Class (for those with Canadian work experience).

It's been observed that for some, obtaining Canadian permanent residency can serve as a potential route to future migration to the US. The proximity of the two countries and the North American Free Trade Agreement (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement or USMCA) have facilitated some degree of movement between them. However, it's important to acknowledge that choosing this path is not without challenges. While Canadian permanent residents may have certain advantages, securing long-

term residency and employment in the US still involves navigating US immigration laws. Issues such as the differences in the job market, with Canada having a smaller population and potentially fewer opportunities in certain sectors like the tech industry, and the complexities of US visa and immigration processes, present hurdles. In conclusion, while direct routes from India to the US are common, Canada presents an alternative pathway for some individuals seeking to eventually settle in the US. This approach involves its own set of considerations, and the next blog post will delve further into the nuances of this strategy, providing a comprehensive overview of the various routes individuals take in their pursuit of establishing a life in the US.

Amol Chaudhari
Amol is a biomedical scientist with experience in translational research. He has a keen interest in business strategy development.