If you’re looking to immigrate to Canada and also happen to be an Indian dentist, you’ve come to the right place. Your occupation may change your access to Permanent Residency status or open doors to various immigration processes. In this article, we’ll explain some of your options and how to start the process.
We’ll go through different programs that are available to you and what the application process is like.
Whether you’re just starting your immigration journey or already in the process, we’ll help you get through the details you need to know.
What is permanent resident (PR) status?
Permanent resident status is granted to individuals who are not Canadian citizens but have the right to permanently live and work in Canada.
To become a permanent resident, you must first apply and be approved by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Once approved, you’ll receive a Permanent Resident Card (PR Card), your official proof of status in Canada.
However, it’s important to know and remember that permanent resident status can be revoked or taken away. If you’re convicted of a serious crime or if you violate your conditions of residence, you may lose your permanent resident status and be forced to leave Canada.
Your PR card needs to be renewed every five years. If you do not renew your card and it expires, you will need to apply for a new one.
Benefits of being a Canadian permanent resident.
Being a permanent resident makes you a recipient of many benefits, such as:
Health care coverage.
Permanent residents are eligible for publicly funded health care benefits in most provinces and territories. This means you will have access to hospitals, doctors, and other medical services at a lower cost or for free.
You may also be eligible for certain government benefits, such as Old Age Security (OAS) and the Canada Pension Plan.
Live and work anywhere in Canada.
As a Canadian PR holder, you have the freedom to live and work anywhere in Canada. You can also start your own business.
Permanent residents have the same rights and legal protection as Canadian citizens regarding job security, wages, and working conditions. However, you may be restricted from certain government positions that require an extra security clearance.
Family sponsorship.
If you have family members eligible to immigrate to Canada, you can sponsor them as permanent residents.
This means they will be able to live and work in Canada and receive the same benefits as you.
Citizenship opportunities.
You may be eligible to apply for Canadian citizenship after being a permanent resident for a certain amount of time.
As a Canadian citizen, you’ll gain the right to vote and hold office. You’re also able to travel freely without a PR card.
Protection under Canadian law.
As a permanent resident, you are protected by Canadian law and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
This means that you have certain rights and freedoms, such as the right to life, liberty, security, the right to freedom of expression, and the right to equality under the law.
Free education.
In most provinces and territories, permanent residents have the same access to publicly funded education as Canadian citizens.
This means that you or your dependent children can attend school for free up to grade 12. You can also apply for government-sponsored financial aid such as loans and grants.
How do I become a permanent resident?
Several options exist for Indian dentists to obtain permanent residency status in Canada. The most common are:
Express Entry.
The Express Entry program is the most popular way to obtain permanent residency.
First, you will create an online profile that enters you into a pool of candidates. This is how you will be invited to apply. Following your invitation, you’ll have 60 days to submit a complete application, including all supporting documents.
Provincial Nominee Program.
The Provincial Nominee Program is another option for Indian dentists. Under this program, you must be nominated by a Canadian province or territory. Each province has different nominations criteria, which may affect how they award them. You must have a job offer from an employer in a designated province to be eligible.
The PNP is general, but there are other nominations or skill-based programs that are region or province-specific. This may be useful if you want to live in a particular province or region.
Atlantic Immigration Program.
The Atlantic Immigration Program is another popular option for Indian dentists.
You must have a job offer from a designated employer in one of the four Atlantic Provinces to qualify for the Atlantic Immigration Program.
The Atlantic Provinces are:
- Newfoundland and Labrador
- Prince Edward Island
- Nova Scotia
- New Brunswick
You will also need to meet the other program requirements, including having at least one year of work experience and English or French proficiency.
Quebec-selected skilled worker program.
The Quebec-selected skilled worker program is an option for Indian dentists who wish to live and work in the province of Quebec.
You will need to meet similar employment requirements as other province nomination programs, but Quebec also requires French proficiency while others require English.
What requirements do I need to meet to work in Canada?
To work in Canada as a dentist, you must have a completed degree and an educational credential assessment report from a designated organization.
In addition, you will need to apply to the Dental Regulatory Authority (DRA) in the province or territory where you want to practice.
The DRA will assess your credentials to decide if you must complete additional courses or degree work. This includes proving English proficiency by taking an approved language exam, such as the IELTS.
Once your credentials are approved, and you’ve met all of the degree requirements, you’ll be certified by the National Dental Examining Board of Canada (NDEB) and can begin practicing dentistry in Canada.
In addition to your certification, you will need to show proof of funds. This proves your ability to support yourself and your dependents as you begin your life in Canada.
How long does the PR process take?
The length of your application process depends on the program you’re applying through. The entire process can take anywhere from a few months to a year.
Express Entry has the quickest application process. You can expect your application to be processed and approved within 6 months. The provincial nomination program can take up to 15 to 19 months to grant Permanent Residency status.
Here are parts of the process you can start on to save time:
- Create an account with the Canadian government’s online application system.
- Complete the application form by scanning and uploading needed documents.
- Pay the application fee.
- If everything looks in order, you will receive an invitation to apply for a Permanent Resident Visa. After you have submitted your visa application, it can take up to another 6 to 8 weeks for a decision to be made.
- If your application is approved, you will receive your Permanent Resident Visa and can begin the process of moving to Canada!
Does Canada need dentists?
YES! The demand for dental services is growing in Canada as the population continues to grow and age.
According to the Job Bank of Canada, the number of new job openings for dentists is expected to reach 12,200 by 2028.
This demand is expected to be filled by 7,000 new job seekers, including Indian dentists immigrating to Canada.
Indian dentists are well-positioned to take advantage of this demand and earn a good income in Canada. The median salary for dentists in Canada is $176,898 annually, and experienced dentists can earn up to $200,000 annually. In addition, many dentists in Canada are self-employed and earn a higher income.
Begin your PR application today!
If you’re an Indian dentist looking to permanently live in Canada, there is no better time to start than now. It may seem daunting at first, but it’s easier with the right information and support.
Express Entry PR can help you make your journey as stress-free as possible. You can start with our comprehensive guide, which outlines everything you need to know about the PR process for Canada.
Visit our website to learn more about our services!