Canadian Immigration Board

November 03- 2010
Hi to all,

I was born in Canada and have lived here in Vancouver all my life. While there are lovely things about living in Canada, for many immigrants, even those who are highly skilled, it is often very difficult to find meaningful and challenging employment. For example, many neighbours of mine have various degrees in Engineering, Nursing or Teaching, yet are only able to find low-paying, undesirable work, many as taxi drivers, cashiers, nannies, security guards or farm labourers.

Please, if you are considering migrating here, talk to someone who has gone through the experience if you can. Find out what their credentials from their home country were and if they were able to get jobs in their fields right away or if they had to go back to school and re-take entire degrees.

I think it is shameful that many internationally trained doctors, engineers, teachers etc. with years of experience are treated as though they have no degree at all.

My many neighbours with Bachelor and Masters degrees remind me of this every day when I see them going to their second job on the night shift while their children sleep.

As for myself, a Canadian and native speaker of English, my own Bachelors degree has not helped me to acquire employment and I am currently taking a course to teach English as an additional language to new immigrants and refugees.

I am very open to people migrating to Canada, I think we have a lovely diversity and many people are humanists who love learning and sharing between cultures. We also have many freedoms and access to nature, education (at a price), and healthcare.

However, like Richard of Calgary wrote, we also have many steeped in the culture of consumerism, debt and heavy workloads.

I imagine a Canada where we work together to create a more balanced society.

Sincerely,
Lalena D. Vancouver, Canada.

November 05- 2010
My first comment please do not select Montreal as a city of choice... here are many Job offers but only for Quebecers. The racism here is very present in Job Market.

About the choice of Canada I don’t agree with that for the men who earn 10000$ per month. It’s clear you will be loser.

Aziz. Montreal, Canada.

November 08- 2010
Hi friends, I very respectfully like to request some information, I am a graphic designer and my wife is an occupational therapist, both with good jobs, very pro-active, I dominate the English, I'm starting an intensive course in French, because I want to move and make life in Canada, my question is: What opportunities do we have with our careers? What about the demand there? Is it profitable to the standard of living compared to the minimum wage there? What about housing? These are my main concerns as to whether it is a good idea. And if I wanted to invest in setting up my own business or design store, How difficult can become in plain legal? Can an immigrant? What is the value of the Canadian Dollar?

I know that is a lot of question, but the risk is much to run and I really want to offer something better for my family, a better future in a better place, not take them to go through complications!

Thank you so much, and good luck for you too.

Joseph H. Los Teques, Venezuela.

November 09- 2010
Hi everyone,

My name is Patrick (Paddy) and I’m from Ireland. I will be coming over to Canada on January 2011 under a 1 year work and travel visa. The stipulation of my visa is that I cannot have a job of employment set up before I arrive. I admit this is strange however I am ready for the challenge. Unfortunately my ex and I were due to get married in April 2010, but this relationship sadly finished. She has permanent residency and originates from England. The plan was once we moved over together she would apply for sponsorship for me as her 'husband'. Today I’m in a different boat. I am still happy to travel to Canada because it is a beautiful country. I don’t know where I will end up or who I will meet but I intend to enjoy my experience and see where the wind takes me. I would love to stay in Canada after my 1year visa expires. Is it possible that my employers can sponsor me during this period??

Anyone who can help me on this matter I would truly appreciate.

P.s To those of you who moan and moan about Canada you need to take a step back and realize that Canada is not full of handouts!! I can understand Canadian citizens being offended and outraged by some of the pessimistic comments that I read on this site.

I truly wish one and all the very best!

Regards
Patrick. Tyrone, Ireland.

November 18- 2010
I would like to be explained, please, what is the significance of "visible minorities"?

Are there any other kind of minorities in Canada (like non-visible, East-European)? If there are, do they have the same rights and protective policies as the "visible minorities" have?

If we (all minorities) have the same rights why it happens that all foreign city and governmental employees are exclusive representants of "visible minorities" and there are no "non-visible minorities" hired in these positions.

These questions originate in two years of heavy harassment and bully I have experienced during my Canadian secondary education studying for a bachelor degree in Public Health in Edmonton, Alberta. I truly appreciate that Canada have protective laws and regulations regarding "visible minorities" but please inform me, what and do those whose foreign identity is betrayed only by a slight accent in their English speech and yet have no one paragraph or section in the legislation for their help.   

I would greatly appreciate a reply from you.

Thank you,
Rosemarie M. Calgary, Canada.

November 26- 2010
@all offended Canadians.

There is a huge difference between being patriotic and being a bonehead. For me the issue is clear: the immigration system is broken. It is not about some "unsuccessful" immigrants who try to "vilify" Canada; it is about their qualifications and experience not recognized in Canada. In that sense I agree that the government sets rather deceptive standards for potential immigrants. You also need to consider that the majority of all immigrants are good specialists in their areas of expertise and belonged to the middle, upper-middle class in their countries  and yes, believe it or not, it is better to be an engineer, accountant etc. somewhere in Eastern Europe than a laborer in Toronto. If the government of Canada said explicitly that recognition of your credentials for immigration purposes does not mean anything for the employment, the number of applications would drop significantly.

I am myself an immigrant who got educated in Canada (BA, MA and currently in a PhD program). I have a Canadian passport in my drawer and when some people refer to themselves as "real Canadians" just because they were born here and to the rest as "them", I just want to shut them up. Canada, Australia and WE are all countries of immigrants. You can not compare immigration to these countries to immigration to Germany, Italy, France or Japan. Canada is MY country as well and WE in Canada understand the problems that most immigrants face and WE want the government to change immigration policies and WE are ashamed of the so-called "patriots" who don't see the existing problems and ask other residents to leave rather than hear them speaking. How can people talk about freedom, justice and fairness in Canada in one sentence and then draw a distinct line between "white, born in Canada" and new immigrants in the next one?

To all prospective immigrants:

There is no clear answer to the question if it is worth it to immigrate to Canada from your home countries. Some people love Canada and some hate, some are very successful while others are not. Nonetheless, I have to say that based on my friends parents, very few of them were able to achieve the same status as they had back home.

Good luck to all of you!
Serg. Toronto, Canada.
 

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Canada Immigrant Job Issues
 

October 04- 2010
I wanted to point out that Richard from Calgary posted some comments on September 5th, 2010, that I as a Canadian found extremely offensive. People should be able to share their thoughts on life in Canada, but should also be careful about how they are abusing this country. It is a privilege to live in Canada, and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else. I'm sorry that he's having a bad experience here, but he should consider researching all the positives that Canada has to offer. This country is unique in its culture, its diversity, and its acceptance of all people, and I hope that all of its citizens fully understand and appreciate that. Canada is beautiful, I wouldn't change it for the world! :D

Emma S. British Columbia, Canada.

October 11- 2010
I am a consultant and working in Ghana, Indian National, I have applied for Canadian Immigration in 2007 May, and now I am about to get my Visa. I have read most of the comments in the forum and it seems most are very negative, I would like someone to really let me know if it is a nice idea to immigrate to Canada, at age 40 and with a good job, I really don't want to have mid life break down. I earn 10000 USD/month Net. Please assist me in taking a good decision which I will not regret.

God Bless you.
BR//ZM. Ghana.


October 20- 2010
Each human being make his fate and the place where do is the least we are made of the same material that dreams and therefore our experience that we live in any country are the result of what abounds in our hearts. I've seen people who speak the worst of Canada and highlights the bad, I think they are people who see the glass half empty and wherever you are, your life will be very sad and difficult, life is easier if you see the best of it and if you multiply the good things not bad.

For Mr. Richard I would give the advice to return to his country and take a few minutes to think if in the proper place according to the awareness it has today. For the others I hope we meet in Canada next year, I began to study French and I hope to apply soon.

Blessings to all.
Nunil. Bogota, Colombia.

October 23- 2010
To Richard and all the unhappy people here in Canada, I suppose that people that decided to sell their properties and gave up good jobs back home were smart enough to do their research before coming to Canada.  I don’t understand why someone would jeopardize family, job security and future for the unknown and then blame Canada for their lack of common sense.  If you used those “high” skills that you claim, you would have probably came here and assess the situation before making the move. Canada like any other country is not heaven and is not meant for everyone, for some people would be a good move while for others might be the worst option but you need to make your own assessment and stop blaming others for your own mistakes.

Richard is also being condescending by thinking that Latin American people come to Canada as refugees and have a better view because we used to live in extremely inferior countries.  I’m from Latin America, came here as  a “skilled” immigrant and am grateful to the Canadian and Quebec governments for helping me in getting 3 graduate degrees at almost no cost. However, unlike “Richard”, I came here almost 20 years ago and before making the move, I evaluated the situation and decided to come here as I thought it was the best move for me. 20 years later, I don’t regret this decision and thank God for giving me this opportunity in life.

People should stop blaming others for their own mistakes, the decisions you made were not imposed on you.  If you made the mistake to come to Canada, this was you own mistake based on your own decision, you are the only one to blame and not others.

Raul. Montreal, Canada.
 

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Canada Immigrant Job Issues
 

September 03- 2010
Good day,

I am a girl of 28 years with French and Spanish nationality, my husband have Peruvian and community of the European Union citizenship, he will travel to Winnipeg in September, and I possibly (if things go well) in a year to go there. Our level of English is very basic right now, and we both speak French. I am a marine biologist, and I have two Masters, one in Environmental Water Systems, and another in international cooperation and development with which I have a one-year scholarship in Latin America. My husband is an electrical engineer and has a resident visa in Canada.

I wonder if we would be easier to find work in Quebec than in Toronto or Winnipeg, in many websites say there is work in Montreal, but many people who goes there says there is no work. I'm a little lost.

 We deeply appreciate your help, because from afar it is difficult to get an idea of how things are in Canada.

Greetings.
Olivia. Santander, Spain.

September 05- 2010
I have made many mistake in my life but the worst mistake in my entire life was the day I decided to come to this fake country full of human rights violations, my life won't be long enough to repent for destroying my life and my family future, life is not only money, is also principles than don't exist at all in this pseudo country. It is not the same when you come here because you don't have anything to loose compare when you loose love, the best job even any Canadian will dream about it.

I also traveled a lot and saw how the life in some countries, especially in Western Europe is; I'm talking about Scandinavian countries. it would be a lack of respect compare this Canadian farm with a decent country, Canada is a cultureless country, no art at all, life spin around fast food, huge obesity rates, LCD TV, and a buying a house you will never paid, that's the meaning of live here. By the way in this fake country there are not such a thing to work 40 hours per week like in decent countries, most of the people work 60, 70, 80 or even more hours just to pay the bills, no vacation period, no illness compensation, nothing, you get sick, you die in poverty, that's the Canadian reality for most of the people. Canada can easily ruin your life and get away with this. Canadian companies cry for one dollar, they are incredible cheap. I'm a very lucky one because I work 40 hours work per week and 2 weeks vacation period for year. In decent countries if you work 40 hours per week you have the right to get sick and receive a payment, also a remunerate vacation period, but Canada is not a decent country

Richard. Calgary, Canada.

September 06- 2010
Hello there!

Nice to meet all you guys

I’m here just because I’m a student and also a dreamer

I would like to know, how can I travel to Canada to try find a job, I’m living in brazil, i know this must be a kind hard, but what exactly I have to do to start think to live there, is my biggest dream and i want make this dream, reality...

Please answer me when you can

Regards.
Hugo. Vitoria, Brazil.


September 09- 2010
To Francisco R, Gerardo, Oscar and others, please do not confuse skill immigration with refugee, they are not the same. If you come to Canada as skill immigrant and pay a lot of money, in most cases all your life savings, it is completely different. Remember one very important thing, not all of us came here because we were escaping from what ever problems someone faced in their countries, in this case is more likely as refugee. Some of us lost everything, good jobs, family, savings, etc., to come here, spend several years till we could get something decent to live. Don't compare Canada with south, central America, Africa, Asia and the poorest countries in the world, the fact that many have never seen other countries does not mean that Canada is a heaven. Why don't you find many immigrants from Sweden, Norway, Finland, etc.? Because they have a lot of better quality of life. Here in Canada you can find several workers that don't have right to vacation period, Sundays, Saturdays, holidays, etc. In fact most people work a lot more than 40 hours a week just to survive, this is the undeniably reality.

In this country you life spins around your work, not your family because you don't have enough time to share. If you are going to share something please, be neutral, don't base your conclusions solely on your experiences, the world is bigger than that.

Ricardo. Calgary, Canada.

September 14- 2010
Hi,

My name is Ulises, I'm from México and I want to go to Canada. I'm a systems engineer, I'd like to know what are my chances to get a job there? Can I send you my resume or do I have to be there first?

I know it can be a little hard but is something that I've always wanted to do, get a better life, a good job etc. I've been reading about it and most people say "hey, submit the application to a visa office at a Canadian embassy" I also read that if you have a job offer it would be easier to go.

Can you give me some advice please?

Thanks a lot for your time.

Best regards.  
Ulises. Mexico

September 17- 2010
Hello,

I am a nurse and would like to work in Canada, I've been there on two occasions and I thought that I would like to work there, the culture and people are very friendly and there are better opportunities to grow personally and professionally as a nurse.

Maria G. Michoacan, Mexico.

September 21- 2010
Hello,

I am a journalist with more than ten years of experience in various media. I'm thinking of going to look for work in Canada. Not sure if it is a good option, I fluent in English speak and write. Thanks and I hope someone can tell me something about your own experience in the same field field.

Luis D. Madrid, Spain.

September 27- 2010
Stan J.: I read your comment about your job in health. I got a question; you know if is very complicated get a job as a medical specialist?

I know the tests to obtain a license (something like the USMLE), but there are employment opportunities after their approval?

Thanks in advance for your response.
Douglas H. Guatemala
 

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We have found that there are online companies, discussion groups, etc. that are trying to confuse the public into believing that they are actually dealing with us, when in fact they are dealing with a possibly fraud, fake, look-a-like company that we are not associated to in any way.

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Canada Immigrant Job Issues
 

July 06- 2010
I've heard comments about a plan of population of some territories in Canada where the government requires immigrant people to populate parts of the country.

I am interested to know about this because I would like to migrate to Canada.

I’ll appreciate any information can give.
Alexander. Bogota, Colombia.

July 09- 2010
It seems like the term of Canadian Immigration existed for as long as people world wide has learned about existence of Canada. In fact the Canada in the perception of international community is closely associated with historical facts of immigration of different communities from many world countries to Canada for better life and fortunes.

Hafez. Comilla, Bangladesh.

July 14- 2010
It's incredible the diversity of comments you can find on immigration to Canada.

Currently I have 24 years I am finishing my degree in marketing, I have a one and a half years old son and I am married. My husband is 25 and already received the same degree.

Recently my parents suggested us make the request to work in Canada, of course the suggestion is very attractive, but a little scary because it is a complete change to our lifestyle.

I'm really glad for have found this website because I wanted the opinion of any of you on so many opportunities we could have.

Both (my partner and I) we are aware that everything is achieved through hard work, but equally we have doubts about whether everything is as nice as they painted.

Currently we do not have any knowledge of the French language. Only English, because where we live is a tourist place with American influx.

On the other hand we also think about the welfare of our son, and what is best for him.

I wish someone could answer my comments, because I would have a broader vision of the panorama.

Have a nice day.
Eugenia V. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

July 19- 2010
A Warning for Immigrants Engineers:

I wanted to post something regarding the professional license here in Canada, which some Canadian employers look for in a candidate.

I graduated in engineering in the UK. Immigrated to Canada and tried to start the license process. I later contacted Professional Engineers Ontario (PEO), the regulatory body for the profession in that province.

They like to talk about ethics and professionalism. But be aware that they don't like to answer your legitimate questions before you pay their fees, which currently stands in about $300, for a start.

Now my point: To obtain a license you need to fulfill several requirements. One of these is practical engineering experience in Canada, which is currently next to impossible to find because there is no jobs. They tell you to pay the initial fee so they assess your credentials. If they find it "deficient", you will need to make likely several exams, each cost $165.

Total costs can reach many hundred if not thousands of dollars, depending on personal circumstances.

Note that after paying all this and approving the exams still doesn't give you ANY license because you still don't have the Canadian experience!!

You cannot figure this out early, because they don't want to answer your questions. The result is you pay a lot of money and get nothing.

To prevent this, I am not registering until I find a suitable job, that even despite I have all the documentation.

The bottom line is, do not register for a license until you know -for sure- how you are going to finish it. First find a proper job, only then register if you wish.

They exploit immigrants by telling them they can register even before they get immigrant status, when a non-immigrant cannot receive a license (but he/she already pay hundred of dollars!!)

Be warned: Do NOT pay money in the air, you will get NOTHING.

Thank you.
Reuven. Scarborough, Canada.

July 23- 2010
Hi to you all,

Today I received news from Centralized Intake Office. It seems I am capable to get my residence as skilled worker.

I am worried about migrating to Canada because the terrible experience that my sister has faced the last 18 months on Quebec.

Why?

The same reasons I’ve read on this forum.

Lack of opportunities for skilled workers in the labor market

Any comments about this...
Fabian L. Mexico City, Mexico.
 

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We have found that there are online companies, discussion groups, etc. that are trying to confuse the public into believing that they are actually dealing with us, when in fact they are dealing with a possibly fraud, fake, look-a-like company that we are not associated to in any way.

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Canada Immigrant Job Issues
 

June 06- 2010
Hello,

My name is Ruben, I am a Mexican who wants to find a better quality of life in Canada, I have said this country was less racist than the United States. And people are more open to immigrants, because they are growing economically. I have also heard and read that the living conditions of their people are better than we have in Mexico.

I hope someone reads me and send me some feedback, thanks.
Ruben. D. F., Mexico.

June 10- 2010
I was employed in a sales/consulting position for a local health and weight loss company in 2008.

A new manager joined and on her first day made racist remarks towards me and Asians. It continued over the next day and I filed a complaint with my area manager. The area manager said they will look into it and only attended to the matter after a week or so and said a verbal warning was given.

I did not receive any apology from the manager and while I continued working I asked for the company’s harassment policy for my reference, which was never given to me till date.

My manager continued making racist comments about Asian clients and customers every now and then laughed it off. I walked away and ignored her comments; it hurt me and showed great disrespect but what does one do?

Despite the promise there won’t be any retribution from my manager or the company. My area manager instead fussed over my vacation request and gave me an ultimatum in forcing me to quit my job. He intimidated me and spoke very harshly. (This vacation request was a no-pay to visit my family for Christmas which I had mentioned at the start of my employment and was agreed)

I wrote to the VP of Operation about the mistreatment and my employment was reinstated. Then my manager started cutting hours and gave more hours to my co-worker than me and when questioned my manager denied it and I have proof of it. The manager turned my co-workers against me. Anyways this went on until I finally could not take the stress and decided to quit in February this year. 

Up to the time I resigned my manager and I maintained a professional working relationship despite everything else as we were involved in a customer service industry. I asked if she could be my reference and she agreed (in retrospect, I must have been naive) then again my perception of a reference is someone from the most recent employment and I figured my manager will be professional enough.

Dated: May 21, 2010
North Vancouver, BC

Over the past 2 months I had sent out dozen job applications and attended a 2nd interview on one and in following up with my potential employer last week I was told I didn’t make it because of a negative reference given by my former manager and then followed by another candidate interviewed  stronger. 

I called my former manager and enquired if indeed my potential employer has called for reference but she denied receiving any calls. This was rather puzzling and I re-checked with my potential employer who confirmed she did indeed call my reference. I called my former manager again but she refused to take my calls. I sent her an email but she has not replied to that either.

Now I am thinking who is discriminating against me? my former manager or my potential employer?

I could live with the fact that maybe someone else is a better candidate, but instead the potential employer quoted 'negative reference' instead of just saying ‘we found someone better’.

Obviously I lost the job on the basis of negative reference and I feel my potential employer would not have called my reference if I was not on their priority hire list.  

If indeed my former manager gave me a bad reference she has waited the right opportunity to get back at me.

Overall, I was an exemplary employee and was offered the manager position (I declined) prior to them hiring the former manager. I feel I have been wronged and the bad reference is just outright vengeance at its best.

I have never seen myself different in color, creed or ethnicity but after this ordeal it did indeed destroy a part of me and shed light into the darker side of local people and employers.

Nonetheless I licked my wounds, left it to karma and walked away but to be prejudiced again over employment, just seems a little too much to accept.

Oh well, as immigrants we have been through a journey and survived far more and one thing for sure if it hasn't killed us, it only makes us STRONGER!

Cheers all,
Juliana. British Columbia, Canada.

June 12- 2010
Mrs. Maria Jose has a very good base to become perfect Canadian. His comment sent to Kasun is full of tolerance, understanding and good intentions. Well done Mrs. Maria Jose. Canada belongs only to you and people sharing your views. How nice for this multicultural society where people are smiling whole day, barbequing, doing to different churches, singing about pace and love. Some people don’t understand that Canada is not perfect country and not the country as Seen on TV. Life in Canada is one long struggle to survive, pay bills, make some savings for the retirement, pay for dental, keep employment, avoid harassment based on race, language, religion etc. Life in Canada is not a Dream. In Canada you can be arrested, sent to jail, beaten by police or by criminals, robbed, fired from work without any reason, you can be discriminated , you can be evicted from your apartment because greedy landlord want to make more profit etc...

Anyhow welcome to Canada mister Maria Jose. Join our huge family of happy people with smile 24/7. And don’t forget to write email to this discussion group after you become Canadian citizen. I would like to hear your opinion after you spent some times here with us.

Drago. Vancouver, Canada.


June 15- 2010
Hi Ruben from Mexico,

As an immigrant, I can testify that Canadians are great people and receive immigrants well. As in any other country, you may find xenophobic mentality but my perception is that in Canada it is only shared by a really small part of the population.

You can refer to www.cic.gc.ca for more information on the immigration processes available as of today. I posted a previous comment in the forum about the challenges you may face to immigrate to Canada if you are a skilled worker. The post it will give you an idea of my personal immigration experience.

Hi Rhonda,

I was glad to see a Canadian born citizen commenting in this forum. I understand your point and partially agree with it. I didn’t read all the previous comments posted by other immigrants but I can comment about my own immigration experience. In my view, immigration polices need to be clearer in regards to professional certification in Canada during the selection processes. Selecting a person that most probably will never have his/hers degree recognized, in my opinion, is not a good strategy. In my view, the immigration and certification processes should take place simultaneously, so you guarantee to new immigrants equal chances to succeed. Certification process would not necessarily arrive in its final stage but would state that the given professional has the required qualifications to be recognized once he is Canada or the steps he may need to take to obtain the certification, eg: go back to school. I can guarantee to you that a good part of the applicants would have a second thought about the entire process.

Andre. Toronto, Canada.

June 17- 2010
Hi Everyone,

I hope that what I write here is useful and will help new immigrants who are already here or would be immigrants contemplating to come to Canada. Please note that this is purely my own personal opinion from my experience as an immigrant for more than 20 years.

I don't really know where to start so my writing may not flow smooth when you read it, please excuse me for this.

Please don't decide to come to Canada unless it is absolutely necessary i.e. don't immigrate to anywhere unless you are absolutely convinced that you have no other choice. The problems with immigrating to another country is immense and you may not realize it while you are in your home country thinking about going to a better place and leaving all your problems. Nobody can tell what will happen, except that in Canada you will not starve, food is simply plentiful (both free and cheap). You will be safe from crimes and all other forms of personal danger and also do not have to fear the authorities here. You will get far more justice and freedom than you can get anywhere in the world. Your child will receive one of the best education that he/she can get, probably much better than the best in Asia. Your entire family will get one of the best healthcare in the world. You can walk the streets and not be afraid that something terrible will happen and you can go home and close your doors and sleep peacefully at night and know that when you wake up tomorrow everything is OK. There is water (drinkable) from the tap and your fridge is still running. Of course some of these basic things are also available in many countries but many of the immigrants coming to Canada come from places where all these are not available. I haven't mentioned many other extremely important things like a sound economic system and good governance, a stable currency and banking system. Good transportation, clean air and beautiful environment. The actual list is endless.

If you want to live well.....then the problem is different. How well do you want to live? Everyone wants to live comfortably. This is the difficult part. The secret to many immigrants who appear to live comfortably here.....is to bring your own money. If you are coming here with tens of thousands which may appear a great deal from your country, forget it. The cost of living in Canada while still relatively cheap when compared with other 1st world country will deplete you tens of thousands easily, within a few months. You need to come here with hundreds of thousands to live comfortably and you still need to compliment that sum with a job or 2 jobs (both you and your spouse work) and be very careful with your expenses. If you're bringing millions, then you can take it relatively easy. You still need a job if you bring a million or so. That's the truth of the matter. Many immigrants from Asia have quite a nice sum of cash after selling their home(s). So they live comfortably in Vancouver, Toronto and Calgary. Many of the less fortunate immigrants look at these and wonder how they did it?

In the early nineties, I was talking to a guy with a family who probably came with a good sum of money and he told me that if he could get a job that's a bonus.

If you come here with very little cash, you are going to find that life is not going to be very comfortable. To get a well paying job, or reasonably well paying, you're going to need very good spoken English with as little accent as possible. Many new immigrants have levels of English that is so poor, I couldn't understand what they were speaking and they hold an MBA from a Canadian University. Many immigrants think that they speak very good English which they may be right when comparing the standard of English in their home country, but in Canada, their level of spoken English is just very poor. Most companies will not employ people with such a low level of spoken English. It simply reflects very badly on the company.

It really is very difficult to employ an immigrant based on his/her overseas qualification. No one knows whether your degrees and training is genuine and it is very difficult for the employers to confirm both your training and qualifications. Who knows? This sounds very harsh but that's the truth of the matter. When you come to Canada you have to start from scratch, if you don't like it then you have to start your own business. The level of competency from overseas qualifications varies considerably. Some may be very good while some others simply cannot be counted upon.

You are going to find a certain level of racism and biasness here against immigrants especially if you speak poor English with a heavy accent. There is no equality, you have to accept this. It may take time as the world becomes more globalized but it will take time. Again the level of racism you will encounter in your workplace also depends on your luck, you may be working for an extremely tolerant Canadian or you may end up working for one who is slightly redneck. The pure redneck will not employ you but you may encounter these people on the bus or outside somewhere. The level of invisible racism is much higher than many people think, because the level of visible racism is appears quite low. Hence it's much harder for you to get a job, get equal pay and get promoted as these are the invisible racism that you will face.

Please consider carefully before you make your decision. Everyone is of course different and really there are some who should never immigrate because they don't have the mindset. Remember if you don't come with sufficient funds you need to be a long suffering person.

Bill. Edmonton, Canada.

June 20- 2010
Hello everyone!

Well... I've been living in Canada for over 1 year & a half, I came here (from Mexico) with a 2 year work permit which only allows me to work for the restaurant that first help me through all the paper work. Unfortunately, due to a personal situation, in January I loss my job & since then haven't been able to find another employer willing to hire/help me with the new work permit.

I've sent as many resumes as you can imagine, I've attended over 10 interviews but as soon as the employers realize that I'm a foreign worker they step back & well... my searching starts over & over again...

I can't complain about the country, as long as I kept my job all my expectations were fulfilled. The issue that I'm facing now is that Immigration Canada requires an open LMO (labor market opinion) from the employers in order to be able to hire foreign workers & finding THAT is the problem!

So the reason why I'm joining this forum is to ask for ANY help from the people who read this; any website, contact, employer, advise... whatever you can relate to my situation that could help me is gonna be TRULY & DEEPLY appreciated!

I wish all the best to all of you! Good luck on your path!
Tania. Edmonton, Canada.

June 28- 2010
Hello to all, I really want to be honest with about to go to live in Canada...

Just wanted to add that I am not racist, I am a pretty cute mixed, low height (not much really), and proud of my color...

Due to political changes that has taken my country I'm thinking of emigrating to Canada, but when I read these comments really discourages me to think that there is racism and I have always thought that this was not like that. really everywhere is racist but that is something I haven't take care much, I am worried but I can not find it as an obstacle because there are more good people than bad, it is difficult to leave their country for a better life, but we all have rights to pursue happiness, if it is expensive to live there, also, it is here is too expensive to live too  and you could get killed by a cell phone, you tell me I have no right to live better, with corruption and poverty in my country, and that stupid coup really depresses me know how we are... My field is the music and teaching, and am currently getting my college career with a degree in arts and my current age was 21 years. I do not aspire to the USA because they believe their country has it all, they are a great power but I really do not realize that things they do and they are made with the sweat of the source of immigrants. I'll not wait for my country get better, if not is Canada is another country... But I will seek an alternative to  look forward... I deserve a better life, we were born on the same land and we will die in it.

I can achieve my goals... Greetings to all Canadians! And to all the races of the world! And blessings to those who have the privileges of living well because of their effort God bless!

Meribeth. Tegucigalpa, Honduras.
 

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Canada Immigrant Job Issues
 

May 05- 2010
Hi this message is directed to Kasun.

Totally obnoxious your comment about the Joes, unmerited the people who did not have, nor have the possibility of a studies. And of course people like you are not well received in Canada, nor anywhere in the world.

I live in Spain, but I'm Argentinean and our next destination would be Canada and with the hope I will not find people like you.

Ahhh Mr. instructed Kasun, just for you information, the first to arrive in Canada were the Spanish not the English.

Maria Jose. Spain.

May 08- 2010
Yesterday, at 7:00 pm GMT+11, I found this Forum. After half an hour reading it, the only thing that I could think about was: Why I didn’t find this freaking website back in 2005!!!

My Canadian immigration story is not different from the majority of the other ones described in here. Up to this point, I had been holding it for myself; just moaning over it, over and over. The more I analyze the set of events that happened to me, more I think that I was living in some sort of really low budget B movie. You know; the ones with big clearly fake plastic spiders attacking Japan. During the last 5 years I hold almost all type of Visa/Permit that immigration Canada has to offer. I was a proud holder of work, study, off campus work, pos grad work and finally permanent resident permits. So does not matter your path, I most probability went through it as well. I believe that the only one missing is the refugee status.  I decided to open my hearth because if I had had the chance to read a realistic view of the immigration experience before taken the decision, I could better evaluate the pro and con of the process and had taken a more sounded decision. That is what I am offering, a realist view.

Note that I am successful, have a well paid job in the same area that I used to work in Brazil; I am totally integrated in the Canadian society. I am a 30 years old Engineer based in Toronto. I disagree from our Peruvian friend stating that the people failing to succeed in Canada are they ones that did not work hard enough. My view on it is that does not matter how hard you work, you also need to be luck and find someone willing to give you the first chance.

So let’s go to the conclusions I ended up with analyzing my life experience as an immigrant in Canada:

-If you have a well paid job back home, do not want to go back to school and have a family, I would only recommend the immigration process if your life or the life of your family is under serious risk; if not and you are doing this for your kids, I would say to let them do the sacrifice, when it is time; Let them immigrate to Canada

-If you hold a University degree note that most probably you are only going to find a job in the same field/level if you go back to school. A Canadian Masters/PhD degree open doors but also do not automatically guarantee recognition by the entity that regulates your profession;

-Canadian education helps you to enter in the job market but don’t expect to earn as a born Canadian citizen with similar or lower qualifications. You will most probably have to start from the bottom;

-Living cost in Canada is high, and associated with high tax rates make the life of the working class quite challenging. If you have a family both of you need to work to have a minimum level of comfort.

That is all the advice that I have. In relation to the whole immigration process, I totally disagree with the current process to select/ invite immigrants to come to Canada. The skilled worker class only accepts individuals with a high level of formal training, not taking into consideration the fact that almost all selected individuals will not have their qualification recognize by the Canadian entity responsible to regulate their profession. I think immigration Canada is misleading these people, selling them the idea of a smooth immigration process. If they want taxi drivers accept our taxi drivers as well as suitable applicants and clearly disclose this point during the application process.

To all of you thinking that you own Canada big time, keep in mind that as you may beneficiate from the immigration process the Canadian government also does so. If you are here is because they need you. With an aging population the government needs young and productive people to pay for the bills.

All the best
Andre. Brazil.

May 15- 2010
Well, I am a native born white Canadian female. I am actually a guidance counselor in a high school. One of my teaching areas is ESL and I have had extensive experience travelling, including three years teaching in Japan. Can I simply ask each writer to reflect on what the immigration experience might be like in their own home country. What type of treatment might I expect to receive? Would I ever be permitted as an immigrant to your country? As a citizen of your country, what rights might I expect? What rights do you actually have in your home country? If you come from such a wonderful place, why did you ever decide to emigrate to Canada? As one writer said, immigration is a privilege. The reality is that first generation is rarely as successful as they would choose to be. The big payoff is with the children. In the meantime you will receive every right and responsibility as any other Canadian. Once your children are educated, they will, indeed, receive equal consideration regardless of colour or religion.

Canadian have a tremendous sense of guilt over the atrocities in the World. We feel guilty that we have so much, when others have so little. The reality is that we have what every citizen of the World should have; responsible government, a solid social program, free education and free medical. As for expensive, perhaps prices are high, but we all live well.

If you don't like Canada, please leave. This is not a perfect country, but it is a wonderful country. Some of you naysayers may be well educated and hard working, but you are clearly difficult to work with. Compatibility is very important in Canadian society. In this country, we value people who value others. We especially appreciate those who offer solutions rather than simply complaining. Think about it.

Rhonda G. Canada.

May 16- 2010
It is with sadness that I read some of these comments here. It's sad to see people in dire straits in a new country. My wife and I both work in the health care industry in Canada, we are Canadians born here. Our great grand parents immigrated to Canada around the turn of the century, if it's any consolation, it's every bit as hard for us to keep employment these days as well.

North America as a whole is dealing with a terrible economic crisis. It does not matter who started this, or how things got so badly out of hand. Both Canadian and American governments have to deal with this quickly.

That is part of the problem. Yes, there certainly are some social issues and some bad behaviors from people and Government that needs to be corrected. There are people that resent immigrants, this is true. If you look closely these people are not educated generally, they are having difficulty in their own lives and find it easy to blame everyone else. Don’t let the minority drive you away. I don’t know what Immigration Canada has been advertising lately.

There are jobs, lots of them if you are a tradesman. Both my wife and myself Have had to deal with layoffs and closings over the years in the health care field.

Sadly, I don’t recommend looking for work only there. If you are a nurse or doctor jobs are hard to get right now. If you work in construction or the oil business you will do well.

Some people have said they are embarrassed to take a job at Tim Hortons or drive a cab. There is nothing wrong with anybody that works period. It may not be the job you wish, and this is an expensive country to live in, I understand all too well that people need to feed themselves and their families. The point I am trying to make is simply don’t give up on Canada because of stupid or ignorant people.

I also know that from some countries there is some serious culture shock. Don’t be afraid to talk to Canadians, 99% of us will always have time to help, or befriend newcomers. Sadly there are idiots all over.

Well, I wish you all well.
Stan J. Ontario, Canada.

May 20- 2010
I have searched this website through Google. This site should be kept alive so that people specially the new as well as old immigrants should know the diabolic designs of government.

Pranab. Ontario, Canada.

May 27- 2010
I'm glad I found this forum where we can pour our opinions.

It is worrying to see the pessimism of some people, people who are not given the opportunity to fall to get up again. Life is full of setbacks, falls but is full of satisfaction - this only if we are willing to fight to achieve a particular goal or goals.

For a week I was talking to my husband about the possibility of seeking opportunities in another country and as a first option is Canada.

I know that if one knows how to direct your search, you can find a good job. I do not know if any of you could give me information about jobs or opportunities for a professional with a long career.

I would appreciate any information that can help us in our search.

Many greetings and blessings.
M. Cordova. Lima, Peru.

May 29- 2010
I have read several negative comments here while researching for an English assignment. I was trying to find examples how some newly immigrants had found it difficult to obtain a job due to not having a perfect command of English (this is irrelevant). I just wanted to say that before you immigrate to any country or even move to another province within Canada you have to do your research. Check to see if your degree will be recognized so that you’re not surprised when you get here. Every province is different in Canada for example I'm a licensed practical nurse in BC but if I moved to any other province I would have to do more courses and apply for licensing within the province I'm planning to go to. Look online to see if your degree is accepted; there are many successful immigrants in the country that have obtained jobs. I have a South African doctor, I work with several Canadian residents whom emigrated from another country and I am not racist in anyway towards anyone.

We are all equal but unfortunately whether you’re a new immigrant or "Canadian", some people are racists just as I have heard on these forum very discriminatory comments towards Canadians. I also wanted to point out that everyone has a difficult time with employment here, one of my friends was unemployed for a year, and hundreds are laid off every day. Every Country has its flaws, no country is perfect. Child care, housing, insurance, paperwork is expensive for everyone (there is no special pricing because you’re Canadian, just so you know) the reality is if you want something you have to work for it. I was a single mom went to school, now I have a good job. I worked $10 an hour jobs too. You also need to research the area you are planning to move to the cost of living is different depending where you live i.e. Vancouver is expensive. Temperature wise varies depending upon the province you live in. Are you ready to live in Canada during the winter time? If you’re serious about immigrating know all your facts think about everything.

The Government is like any Country leader you think they just don't listen to immigrants? But that doesn't mean its right that's for sure. I'm going to bring up something else (I'm not making up excuses) some employers in the private health sector (Elderly facilities) have been firing their workers and replacing them with cheaper immigrant’s workers. This is not right nor is it Canadian resident or newly immigrated workers fault. I was just showing you an example of how a Canadian may have some harvest some negative feelings towards immigrant workers. I don't however this has happened to three facilities in my community.

Cheers, Welcome to Canada!
Adrienne. Vancouver, Canada.
 

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We would like to make clear that no person or organization has been authorized to publish any part of our website’s content, nor to act as its agent for any purpose. Please respect our terms of service.

We have found that there are online companies, discussion groups, etc. that are trying to confuse the public into believing that they are actually dealing with us, when in fact they are dealing with a possibly fraud, fake, look-a-like company that we are not associated to in any way.

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Canada Immigrant Job Issues
 

April 03- 2010
I've come to know that Canada requires many fresh doctors at the moment. I am a Doctor having completed my Graduation (MBBS) and would like to know if I can get a job in Canada?

Khalid. Srinagar, India.

April 05- 2010
Hello,

I'm thinking about migrating to Canada with my family, me, my wife and daughter of 1 year old, But I'm concerned about the comments about how bad they are going to many immigrants, please I'd love your advice and recommended that cities travel, I am willing to work on whatever, but I wouldn’t like to make my family suffer, I'm from Peru and we live well here but we would like to live in another country.

Robert L. Lima, Peru.


April 08- 2010
The Canadian immigration system is well geared for immigrants with no skills what so ever! It follows the rules of if a brown\black\yellow person cleans our roads, houses, toilets it’s totally OK! But when skilled immigrants with experience\sound education come here and tried to apply his\her skills it’s not OK! The government is trying to make a change but because of the system over here the government can't do no squat about that, its just a puppet and brings more and more skilled immigrants with all its lie publicizing, "A better future for people in unstable countries and fast tracking of certain professions!" Yeah right! In my view the whole job market is lie, only hires a few immigrants to save them selves from legal issues. I have been here nearly a year and still I didn't even get one freaking interview (and YES I went those so called government sponsored Immigrant Job Integrating things when they teach to Canadian system of finding jobs, making resumes etc.) No freaking entree level jobs and I compelled to work at a garage and busted my back two times and the doctor just doses meds and tells it’s nothing! For crying out loud I'm an experienced computer administrator! Not a guy who cleans up cars in a garage as a full-time job. Isn't it obvious why immigrants want to abuse the service Canada’s support systems, and the country is having a deficit economy, tell me when you read what I have written do I sound like your average immigrant? With all the spelling mistakes and grammatical errors? Now why could that be? "Because I'm not the freaking average immigrant" I'm educated and have more knowledge than all of the Canadian any-Joes put together, you pick a subject and I can relate to it for hours and hours.

I am so depressed with this whole place, at least one interview for all the time I spent on making dumb cover letter and resumes to match the job requirements, just one! Is it because my name sounds funny or different? Oh yeah I know because I'm from another part of the world and people from other parts other than North-America are loons, slow, retarded, liars and freaking terrorists. Increasing socioeconomic costs to the government are something that it deserves if it can't manage the labour market and influence the business that run within its borders. There is a huge pool of diverse professionals out there doing jobs that any-joes can do and the any-joes blame us for being here, we steal their jobs! How ironic! We are robbed by insurance when we want it for our cars, because we are different? (We can afford the rip off if we were given the jobs we deserve)! Canadians are the biggest hypocrites that ever walked the earth, "We are for human-rights" - What are you'll doing in Afghanistan, helping those savages torture the prisoners? "We are multi-cultural" - Our countries have been multi-cultural for centuries before Canada, we lived in harmony with no quarrel until the white man arrived and left (British, Dutch, and Portuguese). "We are not racial" - The truth is your give immigrants cr*p in such a structured way that they can't understand what is happening, but alas there are the educated and smart ones you know!

So here is my ultimatum about Canada because a day is not enough for me to go on about the injustices that is happening to us, so - Its a freaking frozen waste-land that promises a better world for the misfortune but delivers HELL in such a way that nobody knows what happened! It’s no wonder why your population is a declining one because of the amount of laws on children that nobody wants to have them it’s an utter menace. And God-Bless Asia! We were better off there.

PS. I'm leaving in two months to never return here again! And will spread the news to skilled people to seek else where and enrich the other places that they choose, economically and socially, Canada is not worth a dime. But I got to agree with you this entire place is good for the any-joes of the world. (NOT SKILLED IMMIGRANTS)

Kasun. Toronto, Canada.

April 12- 2010
Good afternoon,

Thanks to my girlfriend's family offered me to go to Canada if given the chance. I am graduated from the PUCV and quickly (a couple of months) I will draw my degree in electrical engineering. I was reading the website of Immigration Canada and what I found out as required in the country's workforce (technicians), besides that, there are races and titles that are not recognized in Canada and need to be a leveling, which is equivalent almost reach the same career again (BA). The zone is intended in the area of Montreal Quebec, from what I read has variations in other areas.

The big question is whether I am fit to go? I have command of English and I'm studying French. About obtaining an employment contract there, I know people who could help, but first I need to know well about the opportunities I have.

I like the quality of life of the country, but I think that I will get restless and could not find a good job, or you'll lose several years doing the grading for having a title that is not recognized.

Very grateful for your help, carefully farewell
Victor S. Valparaiso, Chile.

April 16- 2010
Dear Sirs:

I agree with your premise that all Canadian citizens regardless of background must be free to live and work free from all forms of discrimination.

But what you don't comment on, is that those of us who were born in Canada face such a massive increase in immigration that we are starting to see our communities and some cities transformed into virtual colonies of foreign countries.

The side of immigration you supporters of immigrant rights don't want to face, is that it is so high that the very social fabric of those who were Born here is now threatened in many areas.

Would the Japanese, Australians, Chinese, Saudis or anyone else tolerate such immigration?

Immigration is a Privilege, NOT a Right. That's why the debate about when, whether, and how much immigration is a debate to be had between Canadians born in Canada. No one else has any right to tell us what to do in our own country. THAT would be prejudice, for it would be to assume that immigration is a right, not a privilege.

Thanks for your time.
Jeremy W. Brampton, Canada.

April 19- 2010
I want to share with your readers my "Canadian Experience", since moving to Canada 20 months ago.  I am a USA citizen born and raised, and am white, by the way.  I mention this because most of your readers are presumably from India, China and other far away lands.

Since moving to Canada in August 2008, all I can find for work is substitute ESL teaching, which on average pays me maybe $200/month if I am lucky.  Further, my ESL teaching credentials are NOT recognized here--even though they are recognized in the Canadian CIC point system for immigration (??).  Anyways, the national certifying body for ESL teachers here, TESL Canada is a total rip-off!  They refuse to acknowledge my European TEFL certificate, and want me to do the entire TEFL certificate all over again in Canada!  Plus, they act like total as*holes when you call them or deal with them.  Jesus christ what a nightmare and money pit.  I was teaching in Europe with no problems...come to Canada and PROBLEMS ALL THE TIME.  Paperwork, money, more paperwork, more money...it never ends.  Canadians are masters at screwing each other, I've found. 

So, I gave up trying to teach ESL here, as they refused to recognize my overseas ESL credentials.  I have applied to countless jobs, office temp jobs, barista jobs, deli counter, dog walker, office manager, program assistant, staffing clerk....on and on and on and on filling out endless job application forms/cover letter/re-doing the resume for the umpteenth time.  And what is the response? ZERO. ZIP. ZILCH. NADA.  NOTHING. 

And don't get me started about the cost of this fu**ing country.  Jesus christ, everything is soooo expensive! I saw a can of refried beans for $5 at Sav On foods in Richmond, BC just last week.  And a pint of beer at the local pub? It can cost up to $10! Fu**ing ridiculous!  I lived in Toronto for the first year here (it totally sucked as*, big-time--large, dirty, dysfunctional city, terrible subway system, etc), and now I'm in Vancouver (want to buy a house here? They cost ONE MILLION DOLLARS.  Oh--a house in Toronto will cost you HALF MILLION DOLLARS. 

Just last week I went to a YWCA job fair in North Vancouver.  Oh...my...gawd! The line of jobless and unemployed trying to get into the job fair looked like something from the 1930s GREAT DEPRESSION:  it was over a football field long, and 3-5 people wide!  Passers by looked in disbelief at the giant line of job seekers.  The smallish YWCA building hosting the job fair was like a sardine tin of humans, all packed in there, struggling to get face time with the clearly overwhelmed few employers.  What a fu**ing disaster, or maybe a tragi-comedy? The air smelled like vomit and body odor from severe over-crowding...it was then, after seeing this job fair, that I realized why I never got any replies to so many, MANY job applications: I was one of thousands--or millions of immigrants looking for a job in Canada. 

What a disaster the Canadian immigration system is!

I've spoken with many, many immigrants who all say the same thing: they can't find work, or only can get sh*t jobs. 

I have now decided to leave Canada.  Thankfully I can go back to my old job in Europe.  To all who read this: WARNING! DO NOT IMMIGRATE TO CANADA!  This place will take all your money, and you will not have a job, your educational credentials will NOT be recognized.  You will hate it here. 

I wanted to share my story with all of you because I'm white, have a western name, and am native born US citizen: it does not matter, I can't get a job here either.   Also, a native born white Canadian citizen neighbor of mine candidly pointed out to me that Canadian employers hire native born Canadians with Canadian experience--NOT Americans like me, NOT immigrants from other lands.  We are the last choice of Canadian employers, she explained.  After being here over a year and a half with zero success at finding a job, I believe her words are truthful. What a costly disaster for me… this place is a fu**ing money pit. 

Dreaming of leaving Canada SOON,
Steve :-). British Columbia, Canada.
 

Warning

We would like to make clear that no person or organization has been authorized to publish any part of our website’s content, nor to act as its agent for any purpose. Please respect our terms of service.

We have found that there are online companies, discussion groups, etc. that are trying to confuse the public into believing that they are actually dealing with us, when in fact they are dealing with a possibly fraud, fake, look-a-like company that we are not associated to in any way.

Web Team
Canada Immigrant Job Issues
 

March 2- 2010
Hi!

It’s a wonderful forum to place your comments. 

Am from India and landed in Canada as immigrant in 2008, after landing I had attended almost all programs which are meant for new immigrants such as Mentorship, career edge, ELT, Co-op, Volunteer and even collected few reference letters as well. But finding job in this country is not an easy task, believe it’s more on your luck instead of your hard work. 

Canadian govt need immigrants for labor jobs and currently all educated people are coming to Canada and finally survive with labor jobs.  They involve in such a cycle which never allows to come out of it hence going back become very difficult. 

I feel there must be some norms in terms of applicability of 'Equal Opportunity Employer', percentage of immigrants in an organization and so on.  About all this, it is not enough to educate immigrants or new comers, it’s equally important to update employers towards hiring immigrants like employer can hire any new comer on a contract basis say for a quarter, temporary basis with pre defined conditions or on performance based and alike.

To my surprise, positions are lying vacant for months and years but recruitment never takes place.  In today’s world when distances are reduced drastically, singing same music of Canadian experience, cultural differences etc. are the issues of past.  If immigrants are accepted after Canadian govt norms and evaluation then they must be accepted with open arms.   I also realize....

- Canadian govt is spending lot of money only one side and i.e. educating immigrants wherein they need to change some programs and update employers as well

- I am MBA, my partner is B.Sc, M.Sc, B.Ed, MBA and currently studying.  Also got Teaching License from Ontario College of Teachers but there is no job!

- Before granting visa, credentials, statistics etc. must be evaluated thoroughly if that jobs exists in that area or not.  Calling and then putting someone educated on Personal Support Worker, Taxi Driver, Security Guard kind of jobs is any way not going to promote respect.

- Immigrant decision is based on the information whatsoever is available on internet or through their near and dears where in reality is different.

- Canadian govt need to ensure employment may be in other provinces which need people or isolated locations.

Its very easy to come out with comments such as if someone don't feel good in this country can go back, this country is very safe or similar things.  Friends, immigrants come here with courage to do something extra ordinary, contribute in an exemplary manner but a platform is very much needed.  Putting in the jobs where they lose their enthusiasm is a great loss to such a wonderful country.  They can go to any location, area but with an expectation of appropriate employment only then calling immigrants will make a difference.

One cannot forget that in current scenario a category /class of people coming to this country and wasting their talent is no good at all.  Best and optimal utilization of human brain/knowledge is very essential.

Good luck in your job search.
DK. Toronto, Canada.

March 5- 2010
Very sad to read that many people are in a bad situation in Canada, I live in Guatemala and I will say one thing compared to Guatemala, Canada is paradise, here in Guatemala there is extreme poverty, no jobs, no business or sales, crime kills every 5 minutes, there are stray bullets that kill children and the elderly, corrupt governments steal what they want, we are in extreme poverty. I worked for the Supreme Electoral Tribunal and had to resign because of death threats, which continue even without any reason, if someone can guide me as to run away to Canada I will thank, I do not mind leaving my country, life is worth But already those who are there consider yourselves fortunate to live in a country where human rights are respected and all work is worthy.

Sergio C. Guatemala.


March 6- 2010
I been living in Toronto, Canada for 6 months, I'm Uruguayan, but I lived the last 8 years in Buenos Aires before coming here.

This message seeks to break some myths.

If you are thinking of coming here, the money that the embassy advised is NOT ENOUGH everything is more expensive than what we had said and I assure you that $ 20,000 for a family of 4 people reach only to 6 months.

If you have U.S. dollars multiply x 1.04 Just come will have to pay at least 6 months rent (average 1300 x 6 approximately 7800) are already resting  12,000.

And we must add $ 350 per month for utilities Electricity / water / gas / phone base / basic internet / basic cable and insurance (required) in 6 months 2000 so only resting 10,000 are now in the electric company make you leave a deposit 150, 250 in the gas Remember that the house is empty. Just cook, refrigerator, hot water and heating, microwave maybe $ 2000 If you are humble reach, mattresses / tv / mobile or landline some basic cooking utensils can they give away a table that seats maybe a chair ...

There are left  7500...

To open a bank account there are no major problems, but to apply for a credit card you have to freeze money, at least $ 1000 left and 6500.

And I advise you do so you need a credit history Getting driver's license CAD 125 each, several paperwork $ 100, transportation and another $ 100 minimum per month and things for the house (and left 6000) The car is a complicated issue because economy cars fail the test and the cars cost more if they work, 5000.

No car ... you came a month ago and you still have only $ 6000.

If you can live with less than 1000 a month you're a genius.

That is money that is left for 6 months.

Is very difficult to get a job the first 6 months and if do you do that LIKELY TO GET A “SURVIVAL JOB” THAT ALLOWS live poorly few months.

We're talking $ 10 an hour, 1600 per month to reach your pocket and spend approximately 1350 and transport 100 The conclusion is:

If 20,000 is the only money you have when coming here, then you are playing with fire, maybe after a year you would be IN BANKRUPTCY.

And if it is true that 200,000 immigrants arrive in Canada each year is also true that 80,000 returning to their countries broken losing an average $ 5000 each and can check it in statistic.ca years ago by what they say everything was very different, but now MARCH 2010 this is the reality of someone trying to survive in Canada.

Adrian. Toronto, Canada.

March 9- 2010
Hello all,

In the following months to live I'll move to Canada as a resident. My immediate objective will be to get a scholarship for master’s studies. Some of the forumers would know which institution can look for scholarships or loans? ... Know if they can even offer scholarships to study abroad?

Regards
Juan C. Mexico.

March 13- 2010
I read with great interest the experiences described by people who have come to Canada and even empathize with what they mean I think it is necessary to break down myths about what is truly looking for a new country. But we assume that we choose to emigrate from our countries in search of a better future for our children or ourselves, we understand that as immigrants come to our countries and that these have been successful, this is due to the work and effort made them overcome, I see with great interest as the Spanish, Jews, Germans or any other group that has come to Mexico (and now many of them are moving from here).

So we have to do it in Canada, nothing is free, we must work and struggle every day to get ahead and that's in Canada or any other country. I believe there are many myths about what Canada can offer the immigrant. Important is that it has a stable political system, market economy, excellent education system, a clean environment with natural resources, especially water, which are the envy of any country in the world. I invite you to reflect and put things in perspective because I do not think the small spaces of any European country and its costs is what immigrants want, or live in the midst of violence in Latin America, or the crowds and misery on India, China or the despair of African countries.

Canada has problems, is also a very large young country to meet each and every one of its inhabitants. True, many Canadians leave and seek their fortune in other countries, we live in a globalized world and it will always be Canada but in the end is an oasis in the land to many immigrants want to have like home.

David M. Mexico.

March 18- 2010
Hello,

I have read several opinions, and the truth there are so many people I know who is in Canada and is pretty good and that encourages me to go. I'm about to travel there. I think it depends on the persons that adapt to everything and do the job, in these beloved times we are not able to choose from. Personally I do not do ugly to anything, must be risked to gain encouragement and move on, there is future in Canada

Esther O. Guatemala.

March 24- 2010
I think our communities would do well to agitate for better transparency in the hiring process.

Currently, most job openings are not made public.  This makes nepotism a necessity and puts visible minorities at a great disadvantage, even second-generation young people like myself.

Simply agitate for a law that makes all job openings public, so that people cannot secretly hire their brothers.  No more dependence on nepotism coded as 'networking.'

Furthermore, the qualifications of the person hired for every job can be put on the public record as well, even if their ID/personal information is masked.  This is so that all applicants can compare and contrast against their own qualifications to ensure that the process was fair, and have information on which to build a case if the process was unfair.

Transparency will promote meritocracy in Canada.
Bonnie. Ottawa, Canada.
 

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February 2- 2010
Greetings to all,

There is a saying: Everyone talks like he does at the fair.

Although, for us hispanic speaking people is more difficult to integrate professionally than someone speaking English / French in Canada, by the barrier of communication, a person wishing to live in Canada should seek the techniques for successful installation and not simply terrified by bad experiences of others.

There are several ways of coming to Canada:

1) As a student. Come to Canada as a student in any program related to your career or your interest. The program must be full time
When you are studying full time (have a student visa), it is possible that your spouse process an open work permit which would allow him/her to work legally where could get work. This is a good option for the following reasons:

 a) When you are a newcomer on the country and get to study, you’ll practice your English, and make contacts/friends in town where you are studying. It is important to make friends and contacts for mental health and because they can connect you with prospective employers.

 b) The schools usually have offices or officers dedicated to advise you to seek employment or work where you can get your bearings, or sometimes also hire students.

 c) Having studied or worked 1 year in Canada, you increase your score to emigrate to Canada, as the Canada Govt. considers to have worked or studied in Canada for at least 1 year as an increase in your adaptability.

 d) Future or prospective employers usually feel more compliant with regard to the language if they see you studied in Canada for a while (think ah, the English must be good, if you study here) The degree of importance in Fluency depends on what job you seek. If you work in sales, making presentations or written, of course it will be important.

2) Temporary work permit. There are several ways to work temporarily in Canada. It depends on your country of origin and level of study. For example, engineers from Mexico, may work in Canada if they get a job (of course, must obtain their permission to work) but this profession, like many others (accountant, graphic designer, etc..) Fall into international agreements. Note that if you come just like that without a job offer, "sometimes" because employers here ask you to your engineering degree or another regulated profession this revalidated / inspected by the Corps evaluator of the profession

Note that my partner engineering study in their country of origin - study in Canada for 2 years - and now, working while studying and after study. Because study in Canada, never had the need to evaluate their foreign degree in Engineering. The Official title of his work is not "engineer" but considered their Engineering, and his studies in Canada to his current position... that is not your / their studies abroad are not worth. If my partner wanted to work in a company with the job title of "Engineer" probably should register and make some tests in the College of Engineers of the province, as it is a profession / degree for which is regulated in some cities . (They want to be updated)

There are several programs to work temporarily in Canada, to name a few:
* Live in caregiver-aid to someone at home with children or with patients. Due to the demand of domestic and care workers here in Canada, was created a special program. If you do not like they treat you, find another employer for the same, learn about your rights before resigning or returning you to your country.

3) Calls the residence from your country of origin:
Immigration laws are constantly changing.

If you order from your country of residence may take 1 to 2, 3 years to get it, depends on your country of origin and the times that the Canadian immigration offices later installed on your country to review your case. MEANWHILE, do not waste time, study English, and / or a trade that will be useful to get to Canada (hair stylist, tailoring, making furniture from wood, etc.). Something that gets you a job while you get some professional Or looking for an internationally recognized certification, ie a global review, as the following examples:
Certified Management Accountant (CMA)
Project Management Professional (PMP)
Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)
Chartered Accountant (CA)
Certified General Accountant (CGA)
Certified Internal Auditor (CIA)
Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), Chartered Insolvency Restructuring Professional (CIRP) Chartered Business Valuator (CBV) Certified Treasury Professional (CTP) Certified Management Consultant (CMC) Certified Sales Professional (CSP) Certified Professional Purchaser (CPP) Certified Sales Executive (CSE) Certified Human Resource Professional (CHRP) Certified International Trade Professional (CITP)
These assessments / professional designations may be made in several countries, and have high value here

Well, I hope the information given will be useful. There is work; you can have any job (café, restaurant, etc.). While you get some of your profession. Canada was in recession, and there was a time that lowered recruitment of professionals. As a migrant, you can take time to perfect the language and learn to express yourself professionally, with self-esteem and sell your abilities / work at the best price.

To practice your speaking, presentation you can join TOAST MASTERS in Canada, or in your home country to practice and have a great presence and self-image ... Trusts you ... and get ready, do not house the destination. FORGE YOUR DESTINATION, be prepared to not be a victim of fate. It is disciplined, no one can force you to improve yourself.

And if you do not like Canada, return to your country of origin or go to another country, because with experience abroad and another language is very sure you'll get a good job ...

I wish you success and send you a hug,
Kenny. Alberta, Canada.

February 3- 2010
I have read the comments and just wanted to say that I do feel for you and the difficulty involved in becoming an immigrant. IT is not for the faint of heart!

Realistically Canada does absolutely require continued immigration because our birthrate is so low, and this is the case in all the western democracies. However, there are warmer places to live in the winter, and for the person who immigrates life will be hard and possibly stay hard for the 1st generation at least. You would have to be willing to basically give up everything for your children's future.

My own grandparents immigrated to Toronto prior to WW2 and nothing has changed, only back then there was no social assistance of any kind. As for discrimination, that is unfortunately human nature, there are no countries without it on this earth. Try having a German/Russian ethnicity following WW2 and during the cold war. I put myself through university, following a first career, and took out loans that required 9 years to pay off with high interest rates. I am the 3rd generation and many generations on the other French Canadian side of my family. The taxes are sky high in Canada and you need to know that people commute for long hours and often even so-called successful people have a day job and a part-time or home business as well, if your idea of success is slaving your whole life away.

Unless you are coming from a war torn or unstable country it is not worth it to uproot unless you are quite young and determined. Foreign education might not help, so many are driving taxis AND ALSO so many PhD Canadians are driving taxis here as well.

You must be prepared to live simply, be very adaptable and do a lot of research. As far as living expenses go, I'd suggest to live like a student in an upscale part of town, in a small basement apartment near the subway (cheaper) so you don't require a car because it will make you feel more alive and included in a vibrant society. When you choose to live in a suburb or isolate yourself in an immigrant community, it may seem supportive, but it won't help with the very long travel days and integrating/finding leads. There is a fine Indian community in Downtown Toronto at Coxwell and Gerrard, for example, with all the items from home, the culture and community, but you will have more free time living in the city

Lisa K. Ontario, Canada.

February 4- 2010
This is my first time writing on this forum.  I am an immigrant from the States and been up here for nearly 2 years.  I find it very difficult to find gainful employment in my field of business. My family and I live in a rural area and we are finding it very difficult to locate work.  We want to move to a different area but you need money for that and with a family of 5, it's very hard just to feed them.  We have sent out resumes to no avail, and even emailed the NDP, for suggestions without any responses.  I see jobs posted on job board but only if I was aboriginal, I could apply.  It's just a frustrating feeling that I can't support my family here in Canada. Canada shouldn't focus on trying to get immigrants if they don't want to help them get started. 

JT. Ontario, Canada.


February 6- 2010
I want to say what I think.

My family and I came from South Africa in '08. All this negative talk is insane. If you do your homework before you come, then you should not have a single problem in this wonderful country. We came because of safety concerns for my family, seeing I carried a gun in South Africa every day of my life. We came over; knowing we will make less money and that it’s VERY cold, but I wanted my family SAFE!! I’m willing to shovel snow the rest of my life, to have the safety we have here. Nobody will force anyone to move to Canada, it’s your choice. If it’s so terrible, move back then, don’t complain!!

Adrian. Alberta, Canada.

February 9- 2010
Hi,

I am a landed immigrant in Canada and been living in Brampton from past six months. I am Bachelor in Mechanical engineering with five years of R&D medical device Design experience in a fortune 500 company. I had a perception that I could find a job for me easily in this country, but from past six months I am not only applying for jobs in my field but also in other fields too. It is frustrating for me not even a single call from any company.

I use to meet with people around me. I found after a meeting to my community people and the present scenario that I made a mistake. I left my lucrative job for better prospects in this country. Everyone told me that this is not a country for the immigration of educated people.

Everywhere in the companies I have seen the slogan `Equal opportunity employer` but there is nothing like that.

I think Canadian government should take stringent measures for retaining the skilled immigrant if they really want otherwise they should remove the option for highly skilled class from their immigration policy. At least those people who have everything in home will not be the prey of current situation here.

Regards,
A. S. Brampton, Canada.

February 18- 2010
I am a native from Mexico who looking to immigrate to Canada to work and live. I feel that Canada has many opportunities to offer and full of a variety of ethnic groups from all over the world make it a special place to live. I'd be honored to live in such a beautiful country and thankful to be privileged and the opportunity to work and get success in a great country such as Canada.

Sincerely, Your friend,
Jose. Nayarit, Mexico.

February 21- 2010
Hello everyone!

After reading some comments on emigration to Canada (Montreal), the truth is that I have been astounded and frightened.

I plan to go to Canada for a better life, I have informed and I can go as a tourist for up to 6 months, but to me what interests me is to go to work and could stay there.

I'm with my mother and 2 younger brothers, but my father abandoned us and we want to start a new life do we have any chance there? At first we wanted to go all 4 at once, but I wonder if my brothers will have school, if my mother for her age may find employment...

Ultimately I don’t know if we'll survive. I would appreciate it if you have any kind of information... If already there I could get work and residence... I don’t know, I'm very worried, lost and scared, I hope someone of you can give me a cable.

Greetings
Basma. Spain.

February 25- 2010
I have my degree in accounting since 2008, I been looking for employment for six months, I can’t find anything. They’re telling me that I don’t have experience, blah, blah… how am I going to get experience if I don’t find a job. I did my training for school at the National Bank of Canada and everything. I know a Canadian who’s working at the National Bank, he got a high school degree. It’s unfair, which you pay a lot of money to study and then they tell you that you don’t have experience or you not qualified for the job.

I am pretty upset
Joel G. Winnipeg, Canada.
 

Warning

We would like to make clear that no person or organization has been authorized to publish any part of our website’s content, nor to act as its agent for any purpose. Please respect our terms of service.

We have found that there are online companies, discussion groups, etc. that are trying to confuse the public into believing that they are actually dealing with us, when in fact they are dealing with a possibly fraud, fake, look-a-like company that we are not associated to in any way.

Web Team
Canada Immigrant Job Issues