Highlights: Green Card vs. Canada PR: What Should Indian Skilled Migrants Choose?
- Choosing between a U.S. Green Card and Canada PR is a key decision for Indian skilled professionals planning to migrate.
- Canada PR is processed in 6–18 months, while Indians face waits of 10–20 years for U.S. Green Cards due to country quotas.
- A job offer is not required for Canada PR, but is often mandatory for U.S. Green Cards.
- Canada PR costs around CAD 1,525–2,000, while U.S. Green Cards cost USD 2,000–5,000 plus legal fees.
- Canada’s system has no nationality caps, while U.S. Green Cards for Indians are delayed by per-country limits.
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Comparing Canada PR and U.S. Green Card for Indian Applicants
The table below has a complete overview of the key difference between Canada PR and US Green Card:
|
Factor |
Canada PR |
U.S. Green Card |
|
Main Immigration Routes |
Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) |
Employment-based (EB-1, EB-2, EB-3), Family sponsorship |
|
Processing Time |
6–18 months |
10–20 years (for Indian applicants) |
|
Eligibility |
Points-based system (age, education, experience, etc.) |
Employer sponsorship or family-based eligibility |
|
Job Offer & Sponsorship |
Not mandatory for most pathways |
Mandatory for most employment-based categories |
|
Cost Comparison |
CAD 1,525–2,000 |
USD 2,000–5,000 (excluding legal fees) |
|
Language & Education |
IELTS/TEF required; Educational Credential Assessment |
No mandatory language test; advanced degrees preferred |
|
Effect of Age & Nationality |
Applicants aged 20–29 get max points; no country caps |
Country caps cause long delays for Indian applicants |
|
Visa Categories & Flexibility |
Multiple pathways with PR leading to citizenship |
Fewer flexible categories; lengthy waiting periods |
|
Application Process |
Online, points-based with regular invitations |
Lengthy process with labor certification and quotas |
|
Spousal Sponsorship |
Allowed; spouses can earn additional points |
Allowed under family-based Green Card categories |
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Canada PR or U.S. Green Card: Which One Works Best for You?
Both Canada PR and the U.S. Green Card offer exciting opportunities for Indian professionals. While Canada provides a quicker, points-based system with no country caps, the U.S. Green Card remains attractive for its strong economy but comes with long wait times for Indians. Assessing your priorities, whether it’s faster processing, ease of application, or long-term career goals can help you make the right choice.
Why Trust Y-Axis?
- Free eligibility check for Canada through Y-Axis Canada Immigration Points Calculator
- Expert guidance/counseling
- Coaching services: Expert IELTS proficiency Coaching
- Free career counseling; book your slot today
- Complete guidance with the Canada immigration and USA immigration
- Job Search Services to help you find jobs abroad.
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