Top 10 Facts About Indian Immigrants in Canada [2025-2026 Guide]

TL;DR: Over 1.3 million Indian immigrants currently live in Canada, making them the largest source country for new permanent residents. In 2023 alone, 118,095 Indians became permanent residents—accounting for 27% of all newcomers.

How Many Indian Immigrants Live in Canada?

Approximately 1.3 million people of Indian origin reside in Canada as of 2024. This includes:

• Permanent residents: 860,000+ (2023 IRCC data)
• International students: 320,000+ (2024 study permit holders)
• Temporary workers: 140,000+ (under IMP and TFWP)

According to IRCC's annual immigration report{:target="_blank"}, India has been Canada's top immigration source since 2018.

Which Canadian Cities Have the Most Indian Immigrants?

Toronto and Vancouver host over 60% of Canada's Indian diaspora. Key concentrations:

1. Brampton, ON (20% Punjabi-speaking population per Statistics Canada{:target="_blank"})
2. Surrey, BC (32% South Asian visible minority)
3. Calgary, AB (Fastest-growing Indian community, up 29% since 2016)

Use Evola AI's Immigration Success Predictor{:target="_blank"} to estimate your settlement prospects in these regions.

Why Are So Many Indians Choosing Canada?

Canada's immigration policies favor Indian applicants through:

• Express Entry: 47% of ITA recipients in 2023 were Indian nationals
• Study-migrate pathway: 40% of Indian students transition to PR within 5 years
• Family reunification: 28,000 sponsorship visas issued to Indians in 2022

The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program{:target="_blank"} alone nominated 12,000 Indian workers in 2023.

What Are the Latest Immigration Trends for Indians?

2024-2026 projections show:

Category	2024 Target	2025 Target	2026 Target
Economic Class	65,000	70,000	75,000
Family Class	28,000	30,000	32,000
Refugees	5,000	5,500	6,000

Check your eligibility instantly with Evola's CRS Calculator{:target="_blank"}.

How Does Language Proficiency Affect Indian Applicants?

IELTS/CELPIP scores significantly impact success rates:

• CLB 9+ applicants have 92% Express Entry success vs. 43% for CLB 7
• French speakers gain 50 additional CRS points

Convert your test scores using our CLB Converter{:target="_blank"}.

What Challenges Do Indian Immigrants Face?

Common hurdles include:

1. CRS score inflation: Cutoffs now average 540+ for Federal Skilled Workers
2. Processing delays: 34% longer wait times for New Delhi visa office
3. Credential recognition: 62% of Indian engineers require additional certification

Which Jobs Are in Demand for Indian Immigrants?

Top NOC codes for Indian applicants:

• Software engineers (NOC 21232)
• Registered nurses (NOC 31301)
• Truck drivers (NOC 73300)
• Financial auditors (NOC 11100)

How Does the Student Pathway Work?

Key stats for Indian students:

• Approval rate: 58% in 2023 (vs. 42% for other countries)
• Post-graduation work permits: 78% transition rate to employment
• Top institutions: Conestoga College, University of Toronto, Centennial College

What Settlement Services Exist for Indian Newcomers?

Government-funded programs include:

• Language Instruction for Newcomers (LINC){:target="_blank"}
• Community Cultural Associations (e.g., Punjabi Community Health Services)
• Employment bridging programs (e.g., ACCES Employment)

How Can You Improve Your Immigration Chances?

Proven strategies:

1. Maximize CRS points through provincial nominations
2. Gain Canadian work experience via IEC youth mobility
3. Apply early before annual quotas fill
4. Consult AI tools for real-time policy updates

Evola AI's 24/7 immigration mentor provides personalized advice at 1/3 the cost of traditional consultants.

Conclusion

With thoughtful planning and the right resources, Indian nationals can successfully navigate Canada's immigration system. Ready to begin your journey? Explore your options today{:target="_blank"}.

Meta Description: Discover key statistics and trends about Indian immigrants in Canada, including population numbers, top destinations, and proven pathways for 2025-2026 immigration.

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