Canada is one of the most attractive destinations for skilled workers, professionals, and laborers from across the world, including India. Known for its strong economy, diverse culture, and high quality of life, Canada offers a range of opportunities for foreign workers. If you are an Indian national looking to work in Canada, you will need a work visa. This blog will guide you through the costs and the process of applying for a Canada work visa from India, including the Canada work visa fees in Indian Rupees, how to apply online, and the factors that influence the cost.
Types of Work Visas for Canada
Canada offers several types of work visas for foreign nationals, depending on the type of work and your qualifications. The most common work visa options for India are:
- Temporary Work Visa: This visa allows you to work in Canada for a specific period, typically linked to the length of your job contract. Most temporary work visas are employer-specific, meaning you can only work for the employer that sponsors your visa.
- Open Work Visa: This type of visa allows you to work for any employer in Canada, and you are not restricted to a specific job or employer. Open work visas are usually granted to the spouses of skilled workers, international students, and those who hold a post-graduation work permit.
- Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): This is a popular option for international students who have completed their education at a designated learning institution in Canada. The work permit allows graduates to stay and work in Canada for a period ranging from 8 months to 3 years, depending on the length of the study program.
- Intra-Company Transfer: If you work for a company in India that has a branch in Canada, you may be eligible for an intra-company transfer, which allows you to work for the Canadian branch.
- Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) Work Visa: For employers who want to hire a foreign worker, they must first apply for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). If the LMIA is approved, the foreign worker can apply for a work visa.
The Cost of a Canada Work Visa for Indian Nationals
When planning your move to Canada, one of the important aspects to consider is the cost of applying for a work visa. The work visa for Canada from India cost can vary based on factors like the type of visa, the processing fees, and any additional expenses. Let’s break down the typical costs involved in the application process:
1. Application Fees
The primary cost associated with applying for a work visa for Canada is the application fee. This fee can vary depending on the type of work visa you are applying for.
- Temporary Work Permit: The application fee for a temporary work permit is CAD 155 (around INR 9,200).
- Open Work Permit: The fee for an open work permit is typically CAD 255 (around INR 15,000).
- Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): The application fee for a PGWP is also CAD 255 (around INR 15,000).
- Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) Work Visa: While the LMIA process itself is handled by the employer, if the LMIA is approved, the worker will need to pay an additional fee for the work permit application, which is CAD 155 (around INR 9,200).
2. Biometrics Fee
In addition to the application fee, applicants are required to pay for biometrics, which includes fingerprinting and photographing. This fee is applicable to most applicants, except for those from certain countries.
- Biometrics Fee: CAD 85 (approximately INR 5,000).
3. Medical Examination
In some cases, you may need to undergo a medical examination as part of the work visa application process. This is typically required if you plan to work in a healthcare-related field or if you are applying for a longer stay. The cost of a medical exam can vary based on the clinic and country of residence.
- Medical Examination Cost: The cost can range from INR 5,000 to INR 10,000 or more, depending on the clinic and the type of examination required.
4. Police Clearance Certificate
If you are applying for a long-term visa, Canada may request a police clearance certificate (PCC) to verify that you have no criminal history. This is more commonly required for individuals who plan to stay in Canada for more than 6 months.
- PCC Cost: The cost of obtaining a police clearance certificate can vary, but generally, it costs between INR 500 and INR 1,500 in India.
5. Other Costs
In addition to the above fees, there may be other expenses involved in the application process, including:
- Courier Charges: If you need to send documents to Canadian immigration authorities, you will incur courier charges, which can range from INR 500 to INR 2,000 depending on the service.
- Translation Fees: If any of your documents need to be translated into English or French, you may need to hire a certified translator, which could cost anywhere from INR 1,000 to INR 5,000, depending on the volume of work.
Total Cost for a Canada Work Visa
Given the various components involved, the total cost of a Canada work visa from India can vary based on your specific situation. Here’s an approximate breakdown:
- Temporary Work Permit: CAD 155 (INR 9,200) + Biometrics fee of CAD 85 (INR 5,000) + Medical exam (if required) = INR 15,000 to INR 20,000
- Open Work Permit: CAD 255 (INR 15,000) + Biometrics fee of CAD 85 (INR 5,000) + Medical exam (if required) = INR 20,000 to INR 25,000
- Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): CAD 255 (INR 15,000) + Biometrics fee of CAD 85 (INR 5,000) + Medical exam (if required) = INR 20,000 to INR 25,000
- Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) Work Visa: CAD 155 (INR 9,200) + Biometrics fee of CAD 85 (INR 5,000) = INR 15,000 to INR 20,000
How to Apply for Canada Work Visa Online from India
The process of applying for a Canada work visa from India can be done online, making it convenient and efficient for applicants. Here’s how to apply for a Canada work visa online:
- Create an Account: Visit the official website of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and create an account on the IRCC portal.
- Complete the Application Form: Fill in the required information on the application form. Be sure to include details about your job offer, qualifications, and employment history.
- Submit Documents: Upload the necessary documents, including your passport, proof of job offer, language proficiency test results (if required), and any other relevant documents.
- Pay Fees: Pay the visa application and biometrics fees online through the IRCC portal.
- Biometrics Appointment: Once you have submitted the application and paid the fees, you will be instructed to schedule a biometrics appointment at a local Visa Application Centre (VAC).
- Medical Examination: If required, undergo a medical examination and submit the results to IRCC.
- Wait for Processing: After completing the steps, your application will be processed, and you will be notified of the decision. You can check the status of your application online through your IRCC account.
Conclusion
Applying for a Canada work visa from India involves various costs, including application fees, biometrics fees, medical exams, and other expenses. The Canada work visa fees in Indian Rupees can range from INR 15,000 to INR 25,000, depending on the type of visa and the specific circumstances.
With the option to apply online for a Canada work visa, the process is relatively straightforward and can be completed with the help of the IRCC portal. Whether you are applying for a temporary work permit, open work permit, or post-graduation work permit, make sure to plan for the associated costs and ensure that all necessary documents are submitted for a smooth application process.
