- Are you interested in immigrating to Canada from India, but not sure of what to expect?
- Whether you want to live in Canada temporally or permanently, it is important to do a great deal of research, and know what you’re getting into before making the move!
- So if you have questions on issues such as: How to immigrate to Canada from India, How to get a PR Visa to Canada, How to find chartered accountant jobs in Canada, Where to Live, How to pursue CPA Canada, How long does it take to find a job in Canada, etc. then this article might help you.
- In this article, Dweep Mehta shares with us his entire journey of moving to Canada (Toronto) from India. Dweep is a Chartered Accountant from India and a and a qualified CPA Canada.
Living my Biggest Dream of Being an Indian CA in Canada
One of my biggest dreams was to immigrate to Canada from India and become successful and established in my career as a chartered accountant.
Within 2 years, I fell in love with this strange city, so much that it felt like home. I wondered about the reason. Could it be my exciting new job, my small apartment, or my independence? What exactly has this city given me?
Actually, the answer was right in front of me, but I could not recognize it.
When I came to Toronto, my goals were very clear, and now that I’ve achieved them, I have come to realize that the happiness and contentment of achieving one’s goals come only when one shares it with someone special. That special person has been my best friend, my companion, my dear wife – Radhika.
Below, I will share my story of immigrating to Canada from India. I hope it helps you guys!
Why Did I Immigrate to Canada From India?
Just like many other young people, my reason for immigrating to Canada from India was to look for greener pastures.
As a qualified Chartered Accountant from ICAI, I was hoping to clinch a Chartered Accountant job in Canada.
I was born and raised in Mumbai, India. My life in Mumbai was good. I had a nice job, amazing friends and a great family. However, the everyday commute to and from work was getting on my nerves. The traffic, the crowded trains, and buses all seemed to be getting too much for me to handle (I am sure most of you reading this would have experienced this). This was tiring, and it was beginning to affect my health negatively. Somewhere inside of me, I wanted to move out of Mumbai to live a better life.
In 2012, my cousin, who is like an elder brother to me, told me that he was migrating to Canada. I was really happy for him but at the same time was upset as we were very close. Once he moved to Toronto, he kept updating me about his life there. He was really happy and had progressed greatly in Canada in just a year.
So even though I was kinda fed up with my hectic life at home, I had never thought of moving away from India; from my family, friends, my home country and settling abroad. However, my cousin’s continuous encouragement inspired me to think of moving away from India to Canada.
Around that time, I was engaged to Radhika (now my wife!) – I told her about my plans and she willfully agreed to immigrate to Canada if it meant a better quality of life and a better future.
Of course, we would miss our family and friends, but the difficult decision had to be made if we actually wanted to live the life of our dreams.
How I got my Canadian Permanent Residence Visa
This is what we exactly did:
- We got married in December 2013 and immediately approached an immigration agency and inquired for the process of migrating to Canada from India, and then we started processing the paperwork for becoming Permanent Residents (PR) of Canada.
- There was a long list of documentation that we had to collect before we could actually apply for our Canadian Permanent Residency.
- Both of us were working then. We had to take certain days off from work to gather the documents.
- It took us almost 6 months to finally submit our application. So you could say by mid-2014 we had submitted our application.
- In early 2015, our application was approved and we received our PR visa for Canada. It took us 10 months to get our Canadian Permanent Residence Visa. I still can’t believe we actually went through all that hard work!
Once we got our visa and it was time to move to Canada we were going through these weird emotions. Though we were overjoyed to begin a new life in a new country, we were still sad to leave our family and friends! Now the next big question was which part of Canada do we move to?
Best Places to Live when you Immigrate to Canada
The southern part of Ontario is the most popular destination where foreigners who migrate to Canada settle. This is basically because of Toronto’s ethnic diversity, and because most of the expats work in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).
With a little over half of its residents born outside of Canada, Toronto is the most prominent example of the multiculturalism Canada.
Montréal, the largest city in Québec is in high demand among expats as well. Other popular expat destinations include Vancouver (British Columbia) and Edmonton (Alberta).
In recent decades, the northern parts of Alberta have gained increasing importance as a destination for both workers from other parts of Canada and expats from all around the globe.
Due to Alberta’s rich natural resources, especially the massive oil reserves, expats with skills in engineering are in high demand. While salaries for foreign specialists are exceptionally high, severe weather conditions make the region a less than ideal place to live, especially for expats with families.
Kindly do your research well before selecting the place you want to move to. The above is just my opinion!
“Why did we Decide to Move to Toronto?”
Once we got our PR, we decided to move to Toronto, Ontario. I selected Toronto because my cousin was in Toronto, specifically Mississauga. However, just before I could move to Toronto, he had to move to Edmonton, Alberta for career reasons. Luckily, I had my uncle and other relatives in Mississauga and nearby cities, so I did not think of moving to Edmonton.
Also as mentioned above, there are lots of job opportunities in Toronto for Indians and other foreigners. Selecting the place of residence depends on the individual’s preference, spending capacity, and place of work.
If you take my example, I live in Mississauga which is comparatively less costly than the area in which I work in Toronto. However, I have to spend more on transportation. Alternatively, I could have lived in Toronto and spent more on rental but save on travel costs.
In my opinion, Toronto and the cities within the GTA have comparatively more scope for Accountants than other cities in Canada.
The next best city for Accountants to live in Canada would probably be Vancouver, British Columbia. In the last few years, even Alberta has great opportunities for Accountants.
“How to Find a Rental Apartment in Toronto?”
- You can visit Kijiji to find a rental basement, apartment or condo in Canada.
- You can also approach realtors to help you with your search.
- I can only vouch for Ontario province and specifically the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).
- The rental cost varies from city to city. It can range between $800 for a basement to $3,000 for a condo. For example, Downtown Toronto is more expensive than Midtown Toronto, Uptown Toronto, Old Toronto and cities like Mississauga and Brampton. However, Downtown Mississauga is more expensive than old Toronto.
Starting our Life from Scratch in a New Country
Like millions of people around the world when I immigrated to Canada from India in September 2015, I brought with me some dreams along with my luggage.
When we first moved here, we stayed with my uncle and aunt for two months before we were able to rent our own place.
We were lucky to have them as they guided us through the basic knowledge we needed to settle down in this new country. I knew that we had to get used to the culture as it was totally different from India.
The immigration rules required us to bring INR 800,000 ($13,000- $14,000) which was sufficient to support us for 6 months (This was back in 2015! Now the amount would have changed).
We had a lot of things to get used to within that space of six months, especially the snowy winter.
In the meanwhile, my uncle introduced me to his friend who connected me to someone at the Toronto Chapter of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI). This was to be my stepping stone for finding a chartered accountant job in Canada.
I joined the ICAI Toronto Chapter in October 2015. It was then that I realized the importance of referrals and networking in Canada.
Actually, networking and referring is a part of the Canadian culture. Luckily I found my first job within 4 months. It was a contractual job and not a permanent one. So, when you first move here be ready to join jobs on a contract basis before getting a permanent one!
Pursuing CPA Canada
Soon, I also realized that in order to succeed as an Indian Chartered Accountant in Canada, I would have to get the Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) designation.
I decided that as soon as my contract job ends, I would not take up another job. Instead, I would dedicate my time to achieving one of the greatest landmarks in Canada – CPA.
I am lucky to have a very supportive partner who encouraged me to focus 100% on my CPA studies. She worked and managed the finances for 6 months so I could give my best and study for my exams.
It is also possible to pursue CPA Canada while working full time. However, you need to find a balance.
I did enroll for CPA coaching as well. Immediately after my CPA exams and before the results could be declared I took up another contract job. Luckily, I qualified as a CPA in my first attempt!
Looking back at it now, I realize that I took a big risk of not working for almost 6 months. I am really lucky that the risk paid off well. My wife and I were really excited after this success as I had achieved my first goal – the Canadian CPA.
Some CPA study tips:
- Revise/study ASPE, IFRS, NPO Standards, CAS, Canadian Taxation, Cash Flows, Costing, Financial Management
- Practice case writing
- Debrief cases
- Make your own notes
- Enroll for case writing courses offered by coaching classes and private tutors
- For more information, you can email cpahelpline@icaitoronto.com
Note: There is a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between CPA Canada and ICAI. Because of this, there is only one Common Final Examination (CFE) which lasts for three days. Capstone 1 and Capstone 2 are now exempted for Indian Chartered Accountants in Canada. You can get detailed information here. CPA Canada has an MoU with other professional bodies as well. You can check the same on their website.
Starting my Own Venture in Canada
They say, in order to survive in Canada, you should not rely completely on your job; you need to have alternate sources of income.
A lot of friends and friends of friends moving to Canada from India sought guidance from me about CPA Canada. I always shared my experiences with them as I did not want them to make the same mistake I made.
It was then that I realized that I could actually start coaching Indian Chartered Accountants who want to pursue CPA Canada.
I approached a few of my friends to discuss the idea. Luckily, they were willing to team up with me and start this new venture.
My objective was to help and guide others to achieve the same goal I achieved – qualifying as a CPA.
I always say – CPA is not difficult, it’s different!
With the help of the Toronto Chapter of ICAI’s Board, we started the CPA Helpline. Here my friends and I provide help and guidance to Indian Chartered Accountants living all over the world aspiring to become CPA’s.
Sometimes we also help finance professionals from other professional institutes.
By doing this, I had achieved another goal – Starting my own business while working full time (though my full-time job was on a contract basis).
Finding a Permanent Job in Canada
So now my next goal was to find a permanent job.
I knew there were many opportunities for Indian Chartered accountants in Canada, and I couldn’t wait to get one- a permanent job, unlike the contract jobs I had done previously. To celebrate my CPA success, my family flew down to attend my convocation ceremony. It was a proud moment for all of us.
Surprisingly, for almost 2 months, I was at home, unemployed, searching for jobs, even after getting the CPA designation. Everyone advised me to be patient. They all said Canada has a habit of testing one’s patience!
A few days later I came across a job opportunity but again it was a contract job and not a permanent one! Instead of just waiting for a Permanent job I took up this contract job to get that ‘Canadian Experience’. But the search for my Permanent job was still on.
I contacted various recruiters and approached many people. One day I got a call from a recruiter saying that I had an interview scheduled at an organization. I went for the interview all prepared. Luckily the interview went quite well. They called me for the second round of interview which again went pretty well. I could feel the positivity and felt that something good was about to happen.
After a few days, I received a call from the recruiter. My heart was pounding when I saw the recruiter’s number flashing on my phone. My only wish at that moment was to hear a yes and that’s what happened. The recruiter mentioned that the interviewers were very happy and that I had “GOT THE JOB.” Finally, my persistence paid off, I landed a permanent job in Canada.
Achieving this goal was a big success.
Job Websites: You can apply for jobs in Canada at the following websites:
Buying my First Car in Canada
They say it takes 1000 days for one to settle in a new country. At this point, it had been just 750 days since I immigrated to Canada from India.
People feel that they are settled if they have a permanent job, own car, and own house. I also felt the same to some extent. So now my next goal was to have my own car. After almost 2 months into the new job, I felt the need to have my own car and finally, I got one.
Another feather in the hat!
Do you really need a car in Canada? Buying a car depends on an individual’s usage, place of residence, place of work, proximity to bus stop/bus terminal/train station, and proximity to the grocery store. In my case, we bought our first car only after 2 years as we lived in Downtown Mississauga where everything was very accessible.
We could manage everything even in the harsh winter. The GTA has very good connectivity via bus, train, subway, and streetcar. Almost every city in the GTA has its own transit system.
For example, Toronto has Toronto Transit Commission (TTC), Mississauga has MiWay (Mississauga Transit), Brampton has Brampton Transit, Oakville has Oakville Transit, and York Region in North Toronto has York Region Transit (YRT). The transit system which has the largest connectivity is GO Transit. Each of these is well connected to each other as regards timing and distance from each other.
“What you need to know about obtaining a Driver’s License in Canada?”
Obtaining a driver’s license in Canada is not as easy as it is in India. You can obtain a driver’s license in Canada in 3-steps:
- G1 – This is a computer-based multi-choice questions test you’d take at a test center. There are various test centers across the GTA. One needs to study the rules and laws for this test. There are books and guides available online including mobile apps.
- G2 – This is the first road test. This can be exempted if an individual brings along a record of its License Information from India. This test is comparatively easy to pass as it does not include the highway. It is only within the city and internal roads and streets.
- G – This road test is comparatively difficult to pass as one needs to go on the highway and the examiners are comparatively strict with regard to safety and following the rules.
Buying my First Home in Canada
I still had 250 days for the next goal – Buying a house in Canada!
I was working hard at my workplace to prove my worth, participating in my organization’s events, and developing strong relations with everyone. Meanwhile, the Creator showered His blessings upon us with a little bundle of joy. Our shining little star – Nivaan proved to be a lucky charm.
My hard work paid off and I was promoted within 6 months of joining the company. I had proven myself and was motivated to work harder for the next goal.
During that time, the real estate market in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) was booming. The price of properties was on the rise, so it was challenging to find a house within our budget. We had made up our mind not to leave the area where we currently resided, so checking for properties in relatively cheaper locations wasn’t even on the plan. There were only a few options to choose from, and we weren’t impressed by them. However, we did not lose hope. It became a daily routine to check out 1-2 houses after work for almost two months.
With the newborn and the snow, it was challenging but we were determined to start living our dream. As soon as we liked a house and decided to put an offer, it would be gone, SOLD! But finally, the day arrived – we liked a house, put an offer, and it was “NOT SOLD”!
After a few negotiations, we agreed on the price – March 29, 2018, we can never forget this date. This is the date when we became the proud owners of a house in Canada. I do not have words to describe the feeling of joy and the sense of satisfaction of owning our own house.
I achieved my goal well within the stipulated timeframe of 250 days. So grateful to God, my parents and my super supportive wife. And most importantly, I thank my little bundle of joy for being a blessing in disguise. They say a baby brings a stroke of luck, and my little star surely did!
Getting Canadian Citizenship
Days passed by quickly and within no time, I reached the milestone of residing in Canada for 1,000 days and became eligible for Canadian citizenship! We have applied for citizenship and awaiting confirmation.
At present, I am striving towards my next goal – Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), and I hope to achieve it this year 2019.
Are you Immigrating to Canada from India? Here is my advice.
1. Work-Life Balance
- In Canada, you can expect to have a wonderful work-life balance and spend quality time with your loved ones.
- If your ONLY goal in life is to make money, then this country might not be for you.
- If you wish to succeed in life and have a good quality of life, then Canada is the right place.
2. Move as a Couple
- Going by our experiences and looking at others’ experiences, I feel that if you migrate as a couple, you are better off than those who migrate alone or as singles.
- The reason being, you get the mental support from your spouse which is very crucial when you are away from your family and friends.
- Living by yourself has its own pros and cons.
- You have less responsibility, fewer expenses compared to married couples. However, you earn comparatively less than married couples.
- Even if one partner does not work, the other can support the family. But singles have to work to sustain themselves.
3. Have a second source of Income
- The other thing I have learned is that one should try to have a second source of income.
- Having a job will pay your bills but having a second source of income will help you fulfill your dreams.
4. Have Patience
- We all have heard the sayings “Patience is the key to success” and “Time is money”.
- I had never experienced these earlier in my life but after coming to Canada, I have actually lived them. This country will test your patience, but you should be strong and wait for time to do its magic.
5. Network
- My suggestion to the readers is to continue networking as much as you can, even after being successful in life. You do not know-how, a person you met a few months or years back, would be helpful in the future.
- More importantly, maintain contact with people you network with. Just a simple text or a message on LinkedIn– “Hi, how’s it going?” helps and goes a long way.
- Networking is a two-way, give-and-take relationship. It not only benefits others, but it also benefits you!
Lastly, I would like to say that no matter where you go, no matter where you live, the most important thing is to be a good person. A good person will always be successful in life.
Now It’s Your Turn
Have you moved to Canada or any new country? Or do you have any questions for Dweep?
Comment below and show us your support! Dweep also provides guidance and mentorship to students who intend to pursue CPA Canada. You can connect to Dweep on LinkedIn – Dweep Mehta.
Excellent article! I have been looking for something like this and finally found one. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you so much Jyoti!
wholly practical and real article.
I am CA in india since 2012 and now i think to move to canada though i never thought earlier.
for better life.
So glad this article was of help to you Jyoti!!!
Truly inspiring. Each sentence was so relatable. Thanks for sharing an amazing experience with great details about jobs, career and lifestyle.
It is my pleasure. I am glad you liked it.
Hi!
Thanks for sharing your valuable knowledge and experience. I am one of many CPA aspirants. I have applied for CPA on 15th January under new MOU between ICAI and CPA Canada. I am waiting for the registrar decision. Meanwhile, I want to prepare for the CPA CFE 2019. So, my question is what are study materials available? How could I get it?
Eagerly awaiting your reply.
Hi Bhargav,
Once your registration is confirmed, you will receive login credentials for the online portal where you can access the study material. There are coaching classes which sell their material and cases in case you decide not to join them.
Hope this helps.
Regards,
Dweep
Though I am not a Ca butbthe story was great
Thank you so much
Hi Dweep,
My husband having CA+CISA+12years experience in India.we are planning to move to canada can you guide us CA jobs..is this mandatory to do CPA.how many days to take to complete the CPA.if he do CPA or not do the CPA benefits of jobs please reply me
Thanks in advance,
Padma
Hey Dweep, thank you for this article, you’re kind enough to share so many details of your life which have addressed so many questions I had in mind. The article left me with a positive feeling and encouraged that I too one day can take this challenging step like you did. Will surely connect with you in future. Have a great day! 🙂
Thank you so much Milhaen!
Thank you
Hii Dweep!
How are the opportunities for an Indian CA + CFA (US) in Canada? And What are the differences in terms of better quality life as compared to India in Canada?
Hi Sarthak,
Very good opportunities for Indian CAs. Even better opportunities after completing the CPA. Since you have done the CFA, you may not need to do CPA, depending on your field of interest and the job requirements.
There is a much better work-life balance as compared to India. The overall quality of life is better in the sense that you get time for yourself, your family, and to do something extra out of your routine.
Hope this helps.
Hii Dweep
I have another question. Could you please let me know how can I go ahead if I want to do CA Articleship in Canada?
Unfortunately, there are no articleship opportunities in Canada.
If there are any, then I am not aware. I have never heard anyone doing articleship in Canada.
Thanks for your reply Dweep! ☺️
Wonderfully written. Thanks for sharing your story… The power of networking stood out for me. Keep at it and never give up your dreams. Yes, thanks…
Thank You Naomi!!! So glad you liked the article!
Thank you so much Naomi!
Hi Dweep,
First of all congratulations to you on your journey so far. I recently moved to Vancouver, BC, Canada as an immigrant under PR. I am a qualified Chartered Accountant from India and have done CPA from USA as well. Have 9+ years of post qualification experience in Finance, Accounting and Taxation in banks.
Kindly advise if I should enroll for CPA Canada under MoU between ICAI and CPA Canada?
Hi Ritesh,
Thank you so much. Pursuing CPA is highly recommended. However, it would depend on your field of interest and experience, and the job requirements.
What an inspiring story, I have recently moved to Toronto along with my spouse last month and snow left me feeling sad as I still do not have a job offer. But I am inspired yet again by your”This city will test your patience so wait for it!”.
Thank you so much Taru! I am glad I could inspire you. I wish you all the luck for your first break in Canada.
Tarun I am sure you will find one soon ….and you will do absolutely great. Which part of Canada have you moved to?
Hi Dweep,
Thank you so much your article was very helpful,
I recently qualified as a CA in May 2018 attempt, I wish to know whether I can pursue CPA Canada (Ontario) on the basis of the new MOU by applying for student VISA rather than applying for Permanent Residency, because it would atleast take a year and half to apply for PR,
But the thing is that CPA course as per the new MOU is almost for 6 months, so whether is it possible to apply for student Visa and then get a work Permit and then finally apply for a PR or I have to opt for PR route only.
Hope you could please help me on the above matter.
http://www.thecastory.com/moving-to-canada-on-student-visa/ Maybe this article will help you! I will also connect you to Harsh, he went on a student visa to Canada.
Hi Hitesh,
You can definitely pursue the Canadian CPA based on the new MoU. You do not require a student visa or a PR. You can write the exam on visitor visa too.
As per the MoU, you only need to write the CFE which is a 3-day exam. I am not sure from where you got 6 months.
For detailed information on CPA, I would suggest you email cpahelpline@icaitoronto.com or visit http://www.icaitoronto.com/faq.php
Hope this helps.
Regards,
Dweep
Hi Hitesh,
To appear for the CPA exam, you do not need a student visa or PR. You can also come on visitor visa, give the exam, and return to India.
As Chantelle mentioned, it would be better if you could connect with Harsh Shah. He would be in a much better position to guide you as he came through the Student Visa pathway.
As regards the CPA course duration as per the new MoU, you are only required to give the 3-day CFE (Common Final Examination). Not sure how you got 6 months. For detailed information, please send an email to cpahelpline@icaitoronto.com.
Hope this helps.
Regards,
Dweep
Hi Dweep,
Thankyou so much for your help,
Just needed some clarifications in few other matters.
Whether CPA Ontario conducts any kind placement programmes for newly passed out candidates like ICAI does ?
How good are the job opportunities for CPA’s there?
How much difficult is it to pass CFE of CPA Ontario? (like how much hours of daily study is required, should we opt for any classes, what should be our approach) and it is advisable to work part time until clearing CFE examinations or rather to denote full time for the exams.
And whether MCOM exams are necessary for registering as a student under CPA Ontario or for that matter applying Canadian PR, because I have only done BCOM along with CA.
Please if you could help me on above matters.
Thankyou.
Hi Dweep,
Very useful article for aspirants like me, who wants to move to Canada and make better life with high standards. I’m a Chartered Accountant and wants to know whether Chartered Accountancy Course is considered as Bachelor’s degree or Master’s Degree by WES Canada for applying PR.
Thanks in advance!
Regards
Satya
Hi Satya,
Thank you so much. I really appreciate it.
Unfortunately, I am not the right person to answer your question. This question can be best answered by an immigration agent / agency.
Excellent article. I want to move to Canada and this article helped me a lot. Thank you so much Sir.
So glad to know this. Dweep indeed shared so much. You can also have a look at this article, it will help you http://www.thecastory.com/how-acca-cpa-ca-find-finance-job-immigrating-canada/
All the best to you 🙂
Thank you so much Jaykishan. I am glad it helped you.
Hi Dweep,
I read your success story above and we are connected on Linkedin as well. However, i need some guidance from you and hope you could assist me in a better way.
I am a 28 year old single female applicant and have already applied for Canada PR and it might come in another 1-2 months. Meanwhile, from my studies point of view i have done ICWA- Cost and Management accounting course and CA-IPCC (not given finals yet) from India with 5 years of experience.
Can you please advise how i should move forward professionally. Will completing CA in India be beneficial for me or should i go for CPA in Canada to secure a better future as i might have to start from scratch (not sure). Any assistance would be appreciated.
Regards
Ravneet Kaur
Hi Ravneet,
Yes, I remember you. We are connected on LinkedIn.
I would suggest try to complete your CA in India at the earliest. This will help you get the necessary exemptions based on the MoU.
Hi Hitesh,
I am sure CPA Ontario has various programs but I am not aware about any specific ones as I did not explore those.
There are very good opportunities for CPAs.
It is not that difficult but you need to put in the necessary efforts to learn the art of case writing. The number of hours of studying does not matter. What matters is the quality of studying. Minimum 8-10 hours a day for 2 months at least. Classes are highly recommended as this is a different exam pattern and we need guidance for case writing. It is up to you, how you can manage your schedules and time. Some people study and work together. Some people like me take a few months off and focus on studying. It depends how you cope up with studies.
MCOM is not a prerequisite to register as a student. I am not sure if MCOM would give you additional points for PR. You need to consult an immigration agent for this.
Thankyou so much Dweep, I really appreciate for responding to all my queries.
Hi Dweep , , Nice write up .
I would really be thankful if u can guide for one query . my id is amangupta1244@rediffmail.com
Hi Amit,
Can you mention your query here it will be easier for Dweep. Or if its personal you can connect to him over LinkedIn and msg him with your question.
Hi Dweep ,
Thank you for sharing your experience . It reached me when I really needed it .
I am a member of ICAI.I have been contemplating on whether to migrate to Canada or not . Your article has inspired me , so thank you once again.
I wanted to check if it is possible to write the Canadian CPA papers in India ?
Regards,
Anita
Hi Anita,
I am glad to hear that.
Unfortunately, you cannot write the Canadian CPA exam in India.
Hi Dweep
Ur article was really helpful as I am an Indian CA final student and my Canada PR for Alberta has just begun. Actually even I am confused whether to continue CA final or go for ACCA via icai mou with acca.
Is ICAI’s mou with CPA canada available in Ontario only or can i have it in Alberta also because my husband is getting a job in Alberta .And my experience is just my 3.5 yrs articleship.So can I avail my post qualification work experience after reaching canada?
Looking forward for ur reply.
Hi Divya,
Kindly read this article we well..http://www.thecastory.com/how-acca-cpa-ca-find-finance-job-immigrating-canada/
From what I understand, It is available throughout Canada.
Kindly read this article https://www.cpacanada.ca/en/news/accounting/the-profession/2018-11-22-icai-mou-signing
Also, you can connect to Jasprit as well she is in Calgary, Alberta http://www.thecastory.com/journey-of-chartered-accountant-india-to-canada/
Hope this helps.
Hi
Regarding your question about the MoU valid in Alberta- yes it is. The ICAI and CPA MoU is valid across Canada. I see we are connected on LinkedIn so feel free to message if any more questions. Thanks, Jasprit.
Nicely written. It was as if I was hearing it from you face to face. Extremely helpful. Look forward to connect with you and take guidance.
Regards
Akhil
Thank you so much. I really appreciate it.
Hello,
I have recently applied for Canada PR with job offer in Alberta. Actually i am a CA final student from Mumbai left with a group to clear.Even I would like to do Canada CPA via Mou with ICAI after I reach there.But there is a clause there which says that u should gain ur membership from Icai while residing outside Canada.In my case my PR approval status will come by Jan and within 6 mths I need to join my employer in Alberta. Suppose I gave my May attempt the results will be by July and then I need to apply for ICAI membership. So will Canada CPA accept my application for CPA via mou or will they reject it saying I was having Canada PR at that time.
It would be of great help if u help on this.
Hi Divya
Regarding this I believe you will have to be a CA India member before applying through MOU as CPA Canada usually take a Letter of Good Standing as proof from ICAI that you are a genuine member. I would recommend connecting to below contacts to get more details specially through email, they are quite prompt in replying.
Telephone: 416.977.0748
Toll free: 1.800.268.3793
Email: member.services@cpacanada.ca
Thanks
Jasprit.
Hi. Your story was really inspiring and it really was what I needed at the moment. I am recently qualified CA and cosidering moving to Canada for doing CPA and I really needed to listen an experience from someone who has been there. Thanks a lot. If you are reading this, I would also love to connect with you my email Id is desaijaynish@gmail.com and whatsapp number is 9408090639
I am glad to hear this. Thank you. I really appreciate it. We can definitely connect on LinkedIn.
Dear Sir,
I am so delighted that you made it possible and feel inspired. I wish to seek your valuable support and guidance. I am in CA Final and wish to settle down in Canada as a CPA professional. my email ID : gpsandhu.ca@gmail.com
Thankful to know about your success story !!!
Regards,
Gurpreet Singh
Hi Gurpreet,
Thank you so much. I really appreciate it. Let’s connect over LinkedIn.
Hi dweep, I want to know more about the study material of CPA, I am chartered accountant having more than 1 year experience can you help out
Hi Preeti…did you try connecting to Dweep on LinkedIn? He should get back to you.
Hi Preeti,
You will get access to the online study material once you register as a CPA Student.
Hi Dweep,
Many thanks for sharing your experience and giving us those positive vibes. I am a Chartered Accountant working in a private company in Bangalore, Karnataka from past 3 years. I am planning to move to Canada for better career prospects and hence would like to take up CPA. I have few questions and require your guidance on the same. Can I connect with you on LinkedIn or mail please??
Hi Bhargavi,
Can you let me know what are your questions? Also, my email id is cachantelle@gmail.com
Hi Chantelle,
My linked-in profile – CA with 2+ years exp ( https://www.linkedin.com/in/bhargavi-h-s/ )
My husband’s profile – Software developer/IT with 4+ years exp (https://www.linkedin.com/in/narayana-khadri/ )
I have gone through the below links:
https://icaitoronto.com/faq.php
http://www.thecastory.com/chartered-accountant-india-ca-immigrating-canada/
We want to start the Canada PR process now and hence have few questions on CPA Canada:
1) Registration – I have read that we can register for CPA Canada course any time during the year. Also, we have to register for CFE in May and the CFE exam is held in September. Is my understanding correct??
2) I have read that the number of attempts is restricted to 3. Can the course be generally completed in 3 attempts??
3) Is it better to make the preparation in India and give only exams in Canada or it is preferable to do the entire preparation in Canada itself??
4) What is the level of difficulty and how much of preparation is required approximately?? Is coaching suggested??
5) If we opt for MOU route of registration, we are exempt from Capstone 1 and Capstone 2 and only CFE is mandatory. However, it also encourages to attend Capstone 1 and 2 as both these modules are used to prepare candidates for writing the CFE. What is your opinion on the same??
Job prospective:
1) What is the average time within which one could expect to get a job in Canada??
2) What could be the average salary for an Indian CA with CPA and without CPA?
3) How are the job opportunities at Canada when compared to India??
I have also mailed you the same on cachantelle@gmail.com.
Looking forward for your reply.
Regards,
Bhargavi H S
Hi Chantelle,
I have sent you a mail regarding my questions on Canadian CPA at cachantelle@gmail.com.
Please guide me.
Hi Bhargavi
Here are some responses:
1. Yes timelines are right
2. Yes if you put in focused effort
3. If you doing capstone1 and 2 then be in Canada. If not then doesnt matter as long as you are preparing well for it.
4. Atleast 3 to 4 months of focused effort starting from theory to including practice to write cases
5. I would recommend as capstone 1 case is linked to Day1 but again there have been people who appeared for it without capstone 1 and 2. So ita quite subjective to how fast you grasp the case study and if you can link it to day1 case writing.
1. Depends on your effort for job search and network skills etc. Pretty much same as job search in India.
2. This is subjective based on your role, industry, experience.
3. Yes job culture is good.
Hello! I’m a chartered accountant and moving to Canada in 2 months. Would you recommend me to do CPA or any certifications? Or my CA will suffice to fetch me a decent bank job,since I have 3 yrs of banking experience. How should I start approaching job openings? Some say via indeed.com n some say thru networking in LinkedIn. How should I start off? Appreciate some guidance since I’m clueless. Thank you.
Hey pls have a look at this post http://www.thecastory.com/how-acca-cpa-ca-find-finance-job-immigrating-canada/
Hello Dweep,
First of thank you for writing this article. ICAI’s toronto chapter’s website suggest PrepFormula, PASS and Densmore in order to prepare for CFE exams. There is a huge difference in the amount charged by these coaching institute. Can you please let me know the name of coaching institute you enrolled in? My E-mail address is sandeep.shawn@gmail.com.
Hi Sandeep,
I had joined PASS.
Thanks.
Regards,
Dweep
Hi!
I’d like to ask 2 things
1) I’m a CA Inter and wanted to know if that holds any value in Canada and if so, what’s the CPA Canada process for me?
2) If CA inter has no value then what’s the procedure for CPA Canada after B.Com?
Hoping for a reply!
Thank you!
Hi,
Unfortunately, CA Inter would be similar to a B.Com. graduate. The CPA process includes 2 core modules, 2 elective modules, 2 capstone modules, and CFE.
Hope this helps.
Regards,
Dweep
Hi Dweep
Thanks for the amazing article. I was wondering whether Articleship is considered as experience for PR. Under NOC 1111, they say articling students are covered. But then they also say training as part of a course is not considered as experience.
As this can make or break my eligibility, can you please help me on this?
Hi.
I got my PR and yes they do consider articleship as a work experience under NOC 1111
Hi Prashanth,
Thank you for the kind words.
In my time, articleship was considered but I am not sure about the current rules. Its best you approach an immigration agency or connect with someone who recently got PR.
Regards,
Dweep
Hi Dweep, I want tomigrate Canada or Australia.
Which one is more preferable?
Becoming CPA of which country of the above two is easier w.r.t. duration and syllabus and passing %?
Hi Ankit,
I am not in a position to compare the two. I never explored Australia so cannot comment.
Regards,
Dweep
I had a smile on my face throughout. Heartiest congratulations on achieving the milestones. Thank you for sharing your story.
I wanted to ask if there are any opportunities for a CA Inter and how could one become a CPA.
Hi Harinder,
Very happy to hear that. Thank you so much.
Very limited opportunities for CA Inter unfortunately. The CPA process includes 2 core modules, 2 elective modules, 2 capstones, and CFE.
Regards,
Dweep
This is by far one of the best articles I have read on moving to Canada as an Indian CA and making it a successful move! Very informative piece of information and quite an inspiring journey! I will also be moving soon to GTA and I am sure I will keep referring to this article for tips!
Hi Dweep,
Excellent article, have been looking for something like this for quite some time now. Thank you!
I had a couple of queries, would be great if you could help me out with the same. I have completed my articleship and have given a couple of attempts for CA Finals. I have also completed my Masters in Commerce. I am landing in Toronto in June and would like to pursue CPA (Ontario).
1. Would I receive any exemption for CA Inter or MCom?
2. If not, how many modules would I have to appear for and how long would it ideally take to complete the same?
Hi Darsh, So glad you found the article helpful.
From what I know it won’t be considered.
You can check out this article by Chanada http://www.thecastory.com/pathway-indian-chartered-accountants-seeking-canadian-cpa-designation-2/
If you still have questions pls do get back. All the best.
Hi Dweep
I read your article and found it quite interesting. I have few queries, would appreciate if you can advise. I am an Indian CA, 41 years old and having an experience of 16 years post qualification. I am working with a MNC as GM Finance (experience in Banking, Treasury, Finance Controllership) and wish to immigrate to Canada with my family for better education and prospects for my children. However, I have very low CRS score of 350 and can only qualify if get PNP nomination.
1. Do you think moving to Canada is a wiser and practical option at this age through PNP? Do you think I can get a decent job in Alberta .. are there enough jobs in Canada now, specially for people like me at this age?
2. I have also completed CFA L1,, and planning for US CPA. Does US CPA helps in Canada?
Request for your advise.
Thank you.
Regards
Satbir S Saluja
Hi dweep
I am a B.Com graduate & CA INTER with 3 years complete articleship. How do I proceed for obtaining CPA CANADA?
Thanks Tanima for the questions. Are you in Canada? Not sure if you would get any exemptions. Can you share some more details so we can guide you.
Its an excellent article sir . Thank you so much for sharing this . Am looking for an answer since long and hoping that you can help in in this.
I want to shift to Toronto, Ontario as my elder sister ( a qualified chartered accountant ) is pursuing MBA form Toronto and advising me to live along with her. I am a CA STUDENT who want to do my internship from Toronto. is it possible for me to do so . In coming few years my family in India will be shifting their only . I want to immigrate from here . Please do advice and guide.
Amazing story which embeds struggle, success and inspires others.
Thanks for sharing. It was so detailed and even minutest of the things were spelled out.
A big thanks to Dweep and The CA Story for making this happen.
It was a beautiful article, true and to the point. I am aspiring CA from India and wish to migrate to Canada…please can you help what should be my time line for achieving the degree and immigrating and eventually setteling in Canada.
It would be lots of help.
Thank you.
http://www.thecastory.com/pathway-indian-chartered-accountants-seeking-canadian-cpa-designation-2/ Hope this helps Henal.
Also you can read this article http://www.thecastory.com/chartered-accountant-immigrating-to-canada-from-india/
All the best if you need anything do let us know. Thanks
Hi,
I really liked your article. I am recently qualified CA having no job experience but I do have tourist visa and my sister is Canadian Citizen. Can you tell me minimum work experience required to get PR or if there is any other way for CA fresher to get PR. I am even ready to pursue CPA canada, if it’s required but new MOU ask for minimum 2 years work experience. Further, I am doubtful about future immigration policy of Canada.
Hi Dweep,
It was a good read and I really liked the way you portrayed your entire journey.
I have few questions and it would be great if you can answer them.
I am a chartered accountant with 5 years post qualification experience. My husband is also a CA and we are thinking of migrating to Canada. In our Express entry application, should I show my experience as 5 years or 8 years (5+3 years of articleship) ?
Also , for past two years, I work for an Oil company handling the financial reporting/Planning/Analysis for its joint venture in Alberta. Will this be considered as Canada work experience when I apply for jobs there and give me edge?
Moreover, with this experience will it be easier to get a job in Alberta (where the Oil companies are focused) or in Toronto, the financial hub of Canada? Please advise.
Moreover, if we move to Alberta will there be issues in getting proper training for CPA Canada as I am seeing everyone writing CPA Canada in Toronto? My husband is planning to take CPA Canada immediately as we reach Canada while I plan to start working and then later giving it a try when my husband starts working.
Hi Dweep,
Amazing article, thankyou for sharing.
I am in my Articleship phase and will appear for CA final soon. My question was can I move to Canada directly after completing CA and get my CPA there or Is work experience very important in India to land a job in Canada?
Hey Prachi maybe this article would help you http://www.thecastory.com/chartered-accountant-moving-canada-study-visa/
Do you have your PR?