From Bengaluru to Toronto: My Express Entry Journey
The Decision to Move
Hi, I’m Raghav, a 29-year-old software engineer from Bengaluru, India. After several years in the IT industry, I felt it was time for a change—both professionally and personally. Canada’s reputation as a welcoming, multicultural country with a strong tech sector made it an ideal choice. I decided to apply through the Express Entry program, known for its merit-based immigration process.
Navigating the Express Entry System
The first step was to get my Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) and take the IELTS exam to assess my English proficiency. I scored an 8.0, which was a relief and boosted my Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. But here’s a tip: start preparing your documents early, especially for the ECA, as it took around 8 weeks for the results to come back.
Once my profile was submitted, the waiting game began. I was lucky enough to receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) within three months, but the real challenge started afterward. Compiling all the necessary documentation for the Permanent Residency (PR) application was tedious and stressful. One surprise was the upfront medical exam, which wasn’t cheap and added unexpected costs.
The Long Wait and Unexpected Delays
After submitting my PR application, I expected a relatively quick turnaround based on other stories I’d read. However, the process dragged on for nearly 9 months due to a backlog at Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). At one point, I was worried my application might be rejected due to a minor error in my work experience documentation. Double-check every detail, especially employment records, as any discrepancies can cause delays.
Landing in Toronto and Finding My First Job
Finally, the day came when I received my Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR). I landed in Toronto in April 2023. The initial excitement quickly turned to anxiety as I faced the high cost of living. I had saved enough to last me a few months, but finding a job was a top priority.
Networking proved essential. I attended tech meetups and connected with fellow expats who were incredibly supportive. Here’s a tip: use LinkedIn proactively and reach out to recruiters and professionals in your field before you even arrive. Within two months, I landed a role at a mid-sized tech company. The salary was lower than my expectations, but it was a start.
Reflecting on the Journey
Looking back, the process was rigorous and at times disheartening, but ultimately rewarding. The Canadian work culture is collaborative and flexible, and it’s refreshing to live in such a diverse city. If you’re considering making the leap, be prepared for delays and unforeseen costs, but also be open to the incredible opportunities that await.