- Hi, I am Bhavneet Toor, a Company Secretary from India and a CPA from Canada.
- My goal was always to become a CA, but CS chose me and I couldn’t be happier.
- In 2015, I relocated to Canada and within 7 months, I landed a public practice job which later helped me become a Big 4 Accountant.
- In this article, I share my exciting relocation to Canada, the challenges I faced along the way and how I finally turned my dream of becoming a Chartered Accountant into a reality.
I wanted to be a CA, destiny led me to CS
Since grade 9, my goal was to pursue a career as a Chartered Accountant! When I got to grade 12, I realized that if I want to make this goal a reality, I will have to do my B.Com part-time and complete my CA articles alongside.
As a 17-year-old, all I wanted was to attend college full-time while pursuing a professional degree, so I routed towards a Company Secretary qualification from ICSI (The Institute of Company Secretary of India) and my knowledge on CS was limited upon enrolling.
In college, I participated in dance competitions, anchoring, won titles, organized events, made many friends and ranked amongst the top 10 students of the B.Com degree...all of which helped me enhance my social and networking skills.
Looking back, I am so glad that I took the decision to pursue a course like CS which gave me the opportunity to attend college and experience those golden years of student life.
I eventually completed my Company Secretary course in 2012 right after college at the age of 20 and was one of the youngest in CS back then in my hometown (Ludhiana City)!
What Next?
Deciding to move to Canada after completing CS articles
When growing up, I heard amazing things about Canada from my relatives who immigrated there. Looking at them and the stories they shared, I decided that I would also like to immigrate there.
My initial plan was to move to Canada after completing my B.Com degree in 2012, however, I realized that I had invested so much time and money to pursue CS.
It made more sense to complete my articles of 15 months and get the letters after my name (without the mandatory articles I would not be able to use the letters CS after my name!)
I started with my CS articles in 2012 from a related company of a CA firm, R.Arora & Associates.
To cut the long story short, back then (2012) there were limited options for CS articles in Ludhiana, so when I went through the online directory for companies that hire CS articles, this company was the first one I contacted.
I was called for an interview and hired within a few days, so I think it was destiny that brought me to this great CA firm.
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My exciting relocation to Canada on a study visa & desire to pursue CA
While doing my CS articles at this CA Firm R.Arora & Associates, I was surrounded by Chartered Accountants and that’s when my desire to pursue CA grew even stronger!
In 2014, I researched about CPA in Canada and learnt about the immense opportunities one can get from it. I knew that this would be the best degree I could get.
After compiling research, I looked for institutions in Canada that could help me complete the Canadian CPA and that’s when I found ‘Douglas College’! I chose it for the following reasons:
- Douglas College’s Post Baccalaureate in Accounting serves all the CPA PREP courses that are required to get entry into CPA PEP.
- Second, it was a two-year program which meant that I could get a three-year work permit after graduation.
- Third, Douglas College was the only public college from Lower Mainland offering this course. Public colleges are preferred since their fees are less costly than private colleges and universities. This program was well suited for my requirements.
And that is how in 2015 I moved to Canada through a study visa.
Studying, working, and living in Canada
Initially, the new Canadian life was difficult as I had to start from scratch, however, I quickly adjusted as a young 22 year old would.
I believe it could possibly be harder for someone coming in their 30’s since they have more responsibilities and have built their professional life in India.
I found a part-time job at a pizzeria (could work 20 hours a week) but faced a huge challenge in the beginning. Back in India (my home country), I was used to working in an office environment, so moving from the office to making dough for a pizza was tough! It took me some time to change my mindset, but I am glad I did as everyone is treated equally in Canada.
The other challenge was the education system. I was told, “Education in Canada is easier than in India”. It is NOT! Education in Canada is harder than in India. We have to study consistently in Canada since we have weekly assignments, two midterms, case presentations, final exams and work too.
Apart from intense studying, life was great. I could not have asked for a better opportunity!
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Landing my first international job in Canada while pursuing CPA
When I was studying my Post Baccalaureate, I got a part-time job at a small accounting firm, Deol & Company, CPA in August 2015.
I worked at this company for over 2 years where I learnt a lot about ‘Canadian public practice work’. It was a great experience that I will always cherish.
When I graduated in 2017, I did not go through campus recruiting like my peers who were fresh out of school. Since I had a good 2-year experience working at ‘Deol & Company’, I was looking for a position that matched my experience.
I applied to Grant Thornton as I wanted to gain more exposure and grow. I got selected.
Also, right after graduating from Douglas College in 2017, I got accepted to the CPA Institute, so my goal was achieved.
Applying for my PR Visa and qualifying as CPA Canada
The very same night I got my work permit, I applied for my PR, with no help from anyone, including immigration agents.
My PR came within a month of my convocation (June 2017), which I consider as a quick turnaround time.
Fast forward, in 2018 I got an opportunity with KPMG in Enterprise Practice, and in 2019 I qualified as a CPA Canada.
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Questions I get asked frequently
“Why I chose a student visa and not a permanent residency?”
The Canadian immigration express entry was launched on January 1, 2015. I remember I was missing by a few points to be eligible for the express entry at that time (the PR cut off was higher in 2015 than it is today).
Also, my student visa was approved in August 2014, 4 months before my school started in January 2015. Having my student visa helped me focus on my studies first and think about a PR visa after.
I could have stayed in India to gain experience prior to relocating with a PR visa, but it was not worth the time.
“Benefits of moving to Canada on a student visa instead of a PR Visa?”
The benefits that I received in immigrating as an international student can never compare to moving as a professional.
- A great opportunity to experience Canada in your youth
- International students start their Canadian lives with odd jobs that are available part-time since we can only work 20 hours a week. Most of these jobs give an eminent customer service experience, which is crucial when applying for jobs after graduation. Trust me, the customer service experience is crucial!
- I worked part-time while studying, did house-chores, managed my college club, organized end of semester events and had a big social circle to experience Canadian life. You could miss out on this amazing experience if you come as PR.
- The goal when coming as a PR is finding a good full-time job, which is not usually the case when you come as a student.
- I started my first accounting job in August 2015 after just a week of applying. The job experience I had in India helped me a lot.
- Getting PR after studying in Canada was easier
- Second, getting PR after studying was easier. I applied for my PR the same night I got my job, with no help from anyone, including immigration agents.
- I joined free immigration forums, (canadavisa.com was a big help), read and understood bits and pieces of every law applicable to me. I went to a few immigration consultants before applying, but looking at the fees they charged and the knowledge they have, I realized I am no less than them…but I have to admit, applying for a PR myself was scary.
- My PR came within a month of my convocation (June 2017), which I consider as a quick turnaround time. Furthermore, I could not apply for a PR without the actual degree, which is received at convocation.
- I believe my Canadian education and a score of 8 bands in IELTS helped me achieve a great score…I achieved 70 points more than the CRS cut off that time!
“How much money I invested to study in Canada?”
- The total fees for my Post Baccalaureate was around CAD $30,000 (Rs. 16.5 lacs). Expensive? Yes, but it is not hard when you are determined to do everything on your own.
- The initial requirement for international students is to have $10,000 in Canadian GIC and then payment of the first-year tuition, which was another $15,000.
- I used my two-year savings from my job in India and my parents helped me with this big expense of about INR 10 Lac (approx USD 15K).
- The $10,000 GIC was only used for my second-year tuition fees and the money I was saving on the side for two years was enough to support my second-year tuition.
- I believe every international student should aim to be self-sufficient and independent in money matters, i.e. never ask your parents to pay your tuition once you’ve left the country. Working in a CA office taught me how to manage my finances.
I am against big weddings, so I took this money in lieu of him spending it at my wedding since I am not going to take a penny from him for my marriage. Instead of marriage, I think this is the biggest gift a father can give his daughter, i.e. investing in her education.
“Living expenses in Canada as a student.”
- When you are moving to Canada as an international student, the basic requirements for first-year or semester tuition and GIC are met, so I would say you need approximately $2,000 to start.
- Try finding a part-time job when you arrive and look for shared cheap accommodation through websites such as craigslist, advertisements at laundry stores etc. which will cost you $500 or less per month.
- You might need to buy some clothes according to Canadian weather that should cost another $200 and groceries around $200.
- Bring your utensils (such as cutlery, frying pan, glasses, plates, pressure cooker etc.) from your home country, since those are expensive in Canada when compared to Indian prices.
“Why I chose Vancouver instead of Toronto?”
- I remember my cousin telling me that Vancouver is the most beautiful city to live in and has the best weather among other Canadian cities. I blindly followed his advice and I’m glad to say he was right.
- It is the third-largest city in Canada, and you receive all the benefits like Toronto along with enjoying the natural beauty, so it was not a tough decision.
- There are many jobs in Vancouver, starting from farmworkers to internships to office jobs. You just need to be patient and focus on your work, no matter what it entails.
“Relocating to Canada on a PR?”
“People like me thought that their lives will change after PR, but it doesn’t change.”
- If you are coming to Canada as PR, the first thing you need to bring is a ‘different mindset’.
- You got PR, Congrats! It is your personal achievement and does not change your job prospects. Employers DO NOT see a difference, whether you are looking for a job as a resident, work permit holder, or international student.
- Jobs matter more in Canada than PR…it is a mere entry for you to stay in Canada!
In Conclusion…
I did not come with a silver spoon, on the contrary, I’m indebted with student loans and mortgage, but this doesn’t stop me from pursuing my goals.
My five-year goal plan was to work at KPMG, get citizenship, study at UBC, own a house and teach students. All of which has been fulfilled and trust me, it required a lot of hard work.
Failures do not define you – I failed too at many instances. Sometimes at work, with my friends, maintaining a connection with my family and even with my own expectations. The key to success is to try again with experience.
Lastly, I would say: ‘TALK TO YOUR PARENTS ABOUT YOUR GOALS’. They are the biggest support system anyone could get, and they will never let you down, even if the whole world turns their back against you.
Bhavneet Toor is a Chartered Professional Accountant and Company Secretary with 7+ years of public practice experience combined with corporate and tax law knowledge.
Now It’s Your Turn…
Are you looking at moving to Canada? Have questions for me..comment below and I will get back to you.
(Article edited by Lindy Ntuli and image edited by Ankit Lodhi)
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What about opportunity for qualified company secretary there in Canada ? Do we get any similar job there like CS in India
Hi. I’m completing ICSA myself too and can let you know more about market of CS by the end of this year. As per my knowledge, some of the compliance work (incorporation of companies, annual reporting, legal drafting etc.) falls under the bracket of lawyers, work related to tax filing (Form 23 etc) falls under CPA and some part of work falls under management consulting. The people I know who hold ICSA designation are doing freelancing work as management consultants, board of directors, Chartered Secretary at companies etc. The Chartered Secretary jobs are less and varies among different provinces but to get that, you should be really good with Canadian law, which is very much different than India. Indian law system has a hybrid legal system with a mix of civil, common, customary and religious law whereas Canadian law is totally Common law!
Great mam.. thanks for ur information.. I to same like u I want to study CA but some situation forced me to take CS course even though I will take it ur story as my inspiration to become a CA..once again thank you mam..
Good Luck! Let me know if you need any guidance 🙂
Mam.. I want to register CS foundation next year, now our exams also cancelled, now I planned to study during this lockdown, so if u don’t mind can you please suggest me that which is the best way for own study.. with Google notes.. and also I am poor in English communication can you please suggest me that how can I overcome with this 2 problems.
How I can improve my English communication skills.. and which is the better way to start CS foundation..
Thanks for sharing your experience and information. Can you plz explain what type of job they have offered in case you wants to work in audit, tax ,accounts.? Is there any difference in account, audit process bcoz tax is calculated under their rules and laws. But the work process is same or different?
Hi,
While the underlying items for Audit relatively remains the same, the notes in Financials, the procedures and the work in Canada is less than India. Not every company requires an audit, only the ones that are mandated by law or banks. Taxes are definitely much different than India. We just have to one authority where we file our taxes with, CRA whereas India we report the FS to MCA and then file taxes with IT department. The role of MCA and IT department is handled by CRA alone. Second, every province has their set of rules and structure. Therefore, there is additional requirement for provincial regulations.
Hope that helps!
We just have one authority where we report our taxes, which is CRA*
Hello, I am practicing ca in india
How can I pursue cpa and if it can be pursued from india?
Hi Sir,
You need to a resident of Canada to complete CPA. Can either be pursued with PR or study permit, but one can not immigrate based on CPA’s study permit. Since it is done part-time, the study permit required to immigrate is only given for full time studies.
Hope that helps!
Thanks.
The best gift a father can give is to invest in her education. The key to success is to try again with experience. These are the Golden Sentences of the article.
Thank you 🙂
Hi…. I am CA inter and already 33…what are the job opportunities in Canada for me???? I’m planning to give my CA finals though this year… Can i come at this age?? What are the difficulties I need to face… Please do let me know
Hi Ema,
There is no right or wrong age. Some people immigrate in their 50’s & 60’s too and age is just a number 🙂 Anyways, 33 is too young and definitely you can come at this age too. Everyone has their own struggle. Imagine moving to a country with no family and you have to do everything yourself! There are tons of jobs here. Just be patient and go with the flow. Start with customer service jobs, then move up the ladder! Thats my advice to everyone.
Hi Bhavneet,
It was an impressive and interesting read. I absolutely agree with the points laid down. There are initial struggles but if one is determined enough these will be like pebbles on the way to success..I am also a Company Secretary of 1997 batch and worked as finance head for Airtel for almost 5 years. Moved here 2 years ago as PR. Life has its turns and twists but I am sure it will take the right course. I am enrolled for my Canadian CPA as well AICPA. I hope to stay in touch.
Take once again for sharing your amazing story and my best wishes for your continued success.
Regards
Harjjeet Gahla
Thats impressive Harjeet.
We can connect on linkedin and good luck for your CPA and all future endeavors.
Regards,
Bhav
Hi Bhavneet,
Hope you are doing well!
I am a CA and aspire to do CPA Canada. I want to move to Canada on study visa, could you pls suggest me which course should I do and also pls suggest some good colleges to do the same.
Thanks,
Veenu
Hi Veenu,
Which province are you planning to come? Choose a Post Baccalaureate or Post degree diploma in Accounting.
You can also message me on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bhavneettoor/
Thanks.
Hi Ms Bhavneet,
It was great to learn that age is no factor to explore a career in Canada as a CPA,
As there are many opportunities there, I am interested for the same.
I am a qualified CA from mumbai since 2001 and have work experience of over 30 years in the field of accounts, audit, costing, taxation. I’m ready for pursuing the Canadian CPA, Appreciate your guidànce on the same.
Hi Divesh,
I think it would be safe to say the market is not the same as it was pre-Covid, has slowed down a lot. I’m sure that the job opportunities are less now. Indian CA gets exemption for PREP and PEP courses and have to complete Capstone 2 Module plus the three day final exam. I will have another article regarding CPA process posted soon!
Thank you,
Bhav
Hi Bhavneet,
Your story is such a inspiration for the finance professional thinking about relocating to Canada. I am a company secretary. I am planning to relocate to Canada and I am also planning to enroll for ICSA Canada division. Will it be beneficial? Will it help in getting job in my field?
Thanks
Hi. As per my knowledge, some of the compliance work (incorporation of companies, annual reporting, legal drafting etc.) falls under the bracket of lawyers, work related to tax filing (Form 23 etc) falls under CPA and some part of work falls under management consulting. The people I know who hold ICSA designation are doing freelancing work as management consultants, board of directors, Chartered Secretary at companies etc. The Chartered Secretary jobs are less and varies among different provinces but to get that, you should be really good with Canadian law, which is very much different than India. Indian law system has a hybrid legal system with a mix of civil, common, customary and religious law whereas Canadian law is totally Common law! Hope that helps.
Hi. As per my knowledge, some of the compliance work (incorporation of companies, annual reporting, legal drafting etc.) falls under the bracket of lawyers, work related to tax filing (Form 23 etc) falls under CPA and some part of work falls under management consulting. The people I know who hold ICSA designation are doing freelancing work as management consultants, board of directors, Chartered Secretary at companies etc. The Chartered Secretary jobs are less and varies among different provinces but to get that, you should be really good with Canadian law, which is very much different than India. Indian law system has a hybrid legal system with a mix of civil, common, customary and religious law whereas Canadian law is totally Common law!
Hi Bhavneet
I am a qualified chartered accountant in India and also want to pursue Canadian CPA. I want to understand that does Indian CA provide any relaxations in pursuing CPA?
Thanks.
Hi Jasdeep,
This article will help you https://www.thecastory.com/pathway-indian-chartered-accountants-seeking-canadian-cpa/
Let us know if you need any more details. All the best.