Immigration: Practical Guide for Indians Moving Abroad

Thinking of moving abroad? Canada, the US, Australia — they all sound tempting. But a smooth move depends on preparation, paperwork, and a few real-life choices most people don’t plan for. This guide gives clear, usable steps you can act on today.

Visa paths and paperwork

First, pick the right immigration route. Are you going as a student, skilled worker, or through family sponsorship? For Canada, many Indians use Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP), or study-to-work routes. For other countries, look for skilled visas, work permits, or student visas.

Basics you’ll likely need: a valid passport, language test scores (IELTS or equivalent), credential assessment (WES or national bodies), proof of funds, and clean police records. Get official copies and scanned backups. Missing one paper can delay months.

Take tests early. Language scores (like IELTS) and credential evaluations have expiry dates. Book them while you’re still in India so you don’t worry about test availability later.

Money, jobs and realistic timelines

How much cash? Immigration takes money — application fees, medical tests, flights, initial rent, and deposits. A safe rule: have at least 3–6 months of living expenses saved before you leave unless you already have a job offer.

Job hunting from India works if you use LinkedIn, job portals, and recruiters. Tailor your resume to local formats and be ready to explain your experience in simple terms. If you’re going as a student, research post-study work options; many countries allow work permits that lead to permanent residency.

Expect timelines to vary. Express Entry might move fast for some profiles, while family sponsorship can take longer. Apply early and track your application frequently.

Settling in: first 30 days

Plan arrival tasks: open a bank account, get a local SIM, apply for health coverage or private insurance until public coverage starts, and get a local ID (like SIN in Canada). Find short-term housing first, then look for longer-term rent after a week or two.

Transport and driving: check if your Indian license is valid short-term and how to get a local license. Public transport can save money early on while you figure out where to live.

Food and culture: missing Indian food is normal. Look for local South Asian stores or community groups. Joining local Indian Facebook groups or WhatsApp circles can help with immediate needs — second-hand furniture, job tips, or trusted doctors.

Quick checklist before you leave: copies of important documents, a letter for your employer (if needed), enough meds for 1–2 months, and a simple budget for the first 90 days. Expect a learning curve, but practical prep cuts stress.

Want country-specific tips (Canada, UK, Australia)? Pick one and focus on its main visa streams, costs, and timelines. Small steps now save big headaches later.