Canada Visa Application Online Resource

4 Months PR Visa Processing for the Cabahug Family!

noreply@blogger.com (Apol) — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 14:49:00 +0000

If you're still in doubt about the 6-12 months processing period for FSW application, this may change your mind.

The Cabahug family and Mr. Apol Apuntar

Last Saturday, the Cabahug Family visited our office to pick up their Permanent Resident (PR) Visas.

We filed their application to Centralized Intake Office (CIO) on March 13, 2009. A positive assessment result was received on April 24, 2009.

It took them a while to complete the requirements for submission to embassy. The 6-12 months processing period starts at the time the Visa Office received the complete application package - application forms and supporting documents.

Their application was filed at the Canadian Visa Office in Manila on June 29, 2009 and their visas were sent to our office on November 04, 2009. That's right, it took them only 4 months!

It is now easier and faster to apply. It is happening and we have the proof!

If you are interested to live and work in Canada, too, find out if you are eligible. Here's a FREE online assessment form.

Or attend one of our seminar schedules.

Coastal Mall Office
Canadian Immigration Consultancy Office
Ground Floor Uniwide Coastal Mall
Pranaque City
Saturday 2pm
(FREE SEMINAR - Look for Mr. Apol Apuntar)

Angeles City, Pampanga
Century Resort Hotel
Balibago, Angeles City
At the back of Casino Filipino)
Nov 22, 2009, 2pm to 5pm (Sunday)
Seminar Fee: P500 (single) P700 (married)
Reserve a Seat Now!

Dreaming for a better quality of life is one thing. But doing something to make it happen is another.

You have to do something. NOW!

Special Immigration for Typhoon Victims in the Philippines may include Federal Skilled Worker applicants?

noreply@blogger.com (Apol) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 07:30:00 +0000

One of our clients with pending Federal Skilled Worker PR Visa application filed in 2006 may actually receive the result earlier than expected through Special Immigration Measures for Typhoon Victims in the Philippines.

This particular client has a sister in Canada who seek the help of a Member of Parliament, who then contacted the Citizenship and Immigration Canada. Her sister in Canada actually has a pending sponsorship application for her mother at the same time. The result is quite interesting.

Parents' file (Family Class):
The file was submitted to the CPC Mississauga on 18-Jul-2009. Based on your information, the file will be pulled from the queue and forwarded to an officer for priority processing under the situation caused by Tropical Storm Ketsana/Ondoy.

Please note that any approved requests for expedited processing would be subject to meeting all standard immigration requirements.

Sister's file (FSW):
The skilled worker application for your sister was received in December, 2006. The visa officer are currently processing applications that they received in September 2004.

Based on your information, they have been trying to contact your sister to request evidence and an explanation of how she has been directly and significantly affected by the situation caused by Tropical Storm Ketsana/Ondoy. Once they reach your sister and have obtained the required information, they will review it and advise her directly in due course of what steps, if any, may be made on her file.

It appears that applicants under the Federal Skilled Worker program may in fact benefit from the Special Immigration Measures for Typhoon Victims in the Philippines even if the guidelines do not included them on list of who may apply.

Do you have a pending FSW Application and was affected by Typhoon Ondoy? Ask your relatives to write their representative to the Parliament!

If you don't have relatives in Canada, you may try to submit evidence and an explanation of how you were directly and significantly affected by the situation caused by Typhoon Ondoy.

What document to submit?
1. Sworn Affidavit stating how you were affected
2. Certification from your Baranggay and or Municipal Office or DSWD
3. Other proof such as pictures, news clippings, etc.

Please note however, that you still have to meet certain visa requirements. Furthermore, the guideline specifically outlined who may apply under the program and that in order to be considered, you must be significantly affected. But just the same, it's worth trying.

Call Us via WebCall, It's FREE!

noreply@blogger.com (Apol) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 03:45:00 +0000

This webcall feature has been in placed for quite a time now but I only thought of blogging about it just now. So yeah, you can call us FREE as long as you have an Internet connection. We will be receiving your calls through our regular phone lines and we can even transfer your call to our regional offices! How cool was that?!

How to make a web call

SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS:
Before user start to use WEB CALL system, please remind them of these necessary requirements below:

OS: Windows XP or Windows Vista
CPU: at least 500 MHz
RAM: 256 MB
Web Brower: Microsoft Internet Explorer 6
Sound Card, Headphone, Microphone (speaker) / or Head-Set
Internet: Cable or ADSL Internet Connection

To make a call, click here

If this is the first time you use our webcall service, you will be asked to install ActiveX control. Simply click the Install ActiveX Control.

You will be asked to install the awwc.ocx, simply click install. This installation is just one time and the next time you use the webcall service you will no longer be prompted or asked to install this again from your computer.

After you successfully install the software you can now select which department you want to call
then click the green handset icon. If you want to talk to me, simply request to be transferred to local 8415/8527.

If your computer has a windows firewall you have to unblock the program to proceed with the call.

Now, you can call for FREE even if you are abroad or in the province.

I wonder how many immigration consulting firms have WebCall feature? :-)

November 2009 Visa Bulletin is now out!

noreply@blogger.com (Apol) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 06:54:00 +0000

November 2009 Visa Bulletin is now out!

The Visa Bulletin is a monthly newsletter I send to my clients. If you have a pending immigrant visa application, too, you may also be interested to read what's in November 2009 Visa Bulletin.

This month's Visa Bulletin focuses on applications affected by the Ministerial Instruction - those applications that may be returned unprocessed.

Here's November 2009 Visa Bulletin.

2010 Immigration Plan: Canada to welcome between 240,000 and 265,000 new permanent residents in 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Apol) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 02:58:00 +0000

Citizenship and Immigration Canada’s 2009 Annual Report is now tabled in the Parliament. This is pursuant to Section 94 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act requiring the Immigration Minister to make such report on or before November 1 of each year or, if a House of Parliament is not then sitting, within the next 30 days on which that House is sitting after that date.

"We have maintained the highest relative level of immigration of any major western country, attracting nearly a quarter of a million permanent residents in 2008. In 2010, we intend to welcome between 240,000 and 265,000 permanent residents", said Jason Kenney, Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism.

While it is true that the process for those that meet specified criteria under the new Federal Skilled Worker program is faster - some are approved in less than six months - the fact remains that the process for those who filed before Feb 27, 2008 is still slow.

“We’ve also brought the backlog of federal skilled worker applicants down from over 630,000 to 425,000—a reduction of more than 30%.” - CIC

Part of the reason, if not the major factor, of the dramatic reduction in backlogs may be attributable to a couple of things:

1. Some, if not most, of those who filed before Feb 27, 2008 that are included in the list of 38 High Demand Occupations actually withdrew their applications and filed their applications to Centralized Intake Office (CIO).

2. Some of those who received Confirmation Letter from the Canadian Visa Office in Manila have withdrawn their application. These are the applicants who are not included in the list of High Demand Occupations and were discourage by the long processing period and the unfair treatment of their applications. Here's an excerpt from the letter:

This letter is in reference to your application for permanent residence in Canada, received in 2005. Citizenship and Immigration Canada requests that you confirm whether or not you are still interested in immigrating to Canada.

If you are no longer interested in immigrating to Canada and you wish to withdraw your application, please contact the Canadian Embassy in Manila within 90 days to confirm your mailing information, and we will return your full application fee.

To date, the Visa Office in Manila is yet to finish processing of applications filed in 2004.

The backlog was reduced, alright. But it would have been better if the backlog was reduced because of faster visa processing not only for those who meet specific criteria but also for those who have been waiting for five years now.

The 2010 Immigration Plan, just the same, looks promising. If your occupation is in the High Demand List, file your application now. The list reflects Canada’s labour market needs and were developed in consultation with Human Resources and Skills Development Canada, provinces, territories and other economic experts. There is no official indication yet on when exactly the list will change.

Find out if you are eligible, here's Free Online Assessment

2009–2010 Mathieu Da Costa Challenge

noreply@blogger.com (Apol) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 23:55:00 +0000

Mathieu Da Costa Challenge is a national writing and artwork contest for youths that promotes a greater understanding of Canadian history and diversity. Through this contest, young people are asked to research and demonstrate how Canadians of different ethnic backgrounds have shaped our country’s history.

Who is Mathieu Da Costa?

Mathieu Da Costa is believed to be the first person of African descent to have set foot in Canada. A navigator and interpreter, Da Costa is documented to have travelled extensively throughout the Atlantic Region in the late 1500s and early 1600s. He often acted as an interpreter between the French and the Mi’kmaq.

If you are interested to know more about the 2009–2010 Mathieu Da Costa Challenge contest details, click here.

Image is an artist's impression of Mathieu Da Costa from the Roy States Collection, McLennan Library, McGill University. More info here.

If Mathieu Da Costa is the first African to have set foot in Canada, I wonder who's the Filipino counterpart. I've got to research for it.

Happy Halloween!

noreply@blogger.com (Apol) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 00:21:00 +0000

UPDATE: Our Mall of Asia Office will be open on Nov. 1, 2009 from 12 noon to 10 pm. I won't be there though. :-) But let me know if you plan to go there to submit documents.

This is just to inform you all that our Coastal Mall office will be closed on Nov 1, 2009. However, our Mall of Asia office may be open from 10am to 10 pm. I'll update you later.

There will also be a seminar schedule this coming Saturday, October 31, 2009, 2pm at our Coastal Mall office. If you want to learn your options on how to live and work in Canada, make a reservation now! Simply leave a comment here if you want to attend.

By the way, here's how Halloween in Canada is celebrated.

Angeles City Seminar - Nov 22, 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Apol) — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 07:01:00 +0000

I'll be conducting another seminar in Angeles City this coming November for those who want to live and work in Canada. If you are interested to learn your options on how to live and work in Canada, make a reservation now!

Photo courtesy of Roland Gomez

Here's the seminar details:

Angeles City, Pampanga
Century Resort Hotel
Balibago, Angeles City
At the back of Casino Filipino)
Nov 22, 2009, 2pm to 5pm (Sunday)
Seminar Fee: P500 (single) P700 (married)
Reserve a Seat Now!

It is now easier and faster to apply! If you are eligible, all you need to do is decide to apply and make a commitment to that decision!

Some of those who attended my seminar few months ago now have positive assessment from Centralized Intake Office (CIO). They are now in the process of completing their documents for submission to Canadian Visa Office in Manila. Another one is now in the medical examination stage.

You, too, can be one of them. Find out how! Reserve a seat now!

Canada hits out at EU over visa spat

noreply@blogger.com (Apol) — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 03:54:00 +0000

Sometime in July, Canada imposed visa requirement on the Czech Republic and Mexico.

As expected both countries did not accept it lightly. Czech Republic reacted to Canada Visa move and seek the support of the European Union in protesting such decision by the Canadian Government.

EU Justice Commissioner Jacques Barrot warned that "unless the measures we are proposing are established in a satisfactory manner by the by end of 2009, then we will recommend re-imposing requirements for certain categories of Canadian citizens."

Now, Canada is reacting to such statement from EU.

OTTAWA - Canada on Friday lamented threats made by the European Union in an ongoing visa dispute between Ottawa and the 27-member bloc, calling for "constructive dialogue" to end the dispute.

Canadian Foreign Minister Lawrence Cannon hit out EU Justice Commissioner Jacques Barrot, who has warned Canada must lift tough visa requirements for Czechs by the end of the year, or face retaliatory measures.

"I regret the fact that Mr. Barrot chose to speak of threats while the solution lies in a constructive dialogue," Cannon said.

Read full story here.

Today is World Polio Day | Are those with polio inaddmissible to Canada?

noreply@blogger.com (Apol) — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 02:34:00 +0000

Rotary International has declared October 24, 2009, "World Polio Day" as part of its its effort raise awareness and funds for the global push to end polio.

For more information about the campaign, click here.

Are those with polio inadmissible to Canada and can't be issued permanent resident visa?

Medical inadmissibility is to be decided by the visa officer based on the report from designated medical practitioners.

The following medical conditions are considered inadmissible:

1. Medical conditions that may cause danger to public health and safety

2. Medical conditions that may reasonably require excessive demand on the Canadian health care system or on social services in Canada

It will be evaluated on case to case basis. But based on our experience, we already have clients with polio who were granted PR Visa!

On IELTS Exam Result expiration for PR Visa Application

noreply@blogger.com (Apol) — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 06:48:00 +0000

If you have read my previous entry, Is IELTS Exam Results Subject to Expiration?, I stated there that for PR Visa application, the Visa Office requires that your IELTS Exam result should not be older than one year. That is true and it is in fact written in the Citizenship and Immigration Canada guidelines.

But what if your IELTS Exam result is one year and 2 months old, do you really need to write the examination again?

Consider two things:

1. IF you write the exam again, you will need to pay another P8,640. Whether you have enough or limited funds, the amount is still material.

2. What is the worst scenario if you submit IELTS Exam result that is older than one year? Do you think it will cause refusal? Probably not. The worst could be a delay in processing as the visa office may write you a letter requiring you to write the exam again.

I guess you already know where I'm leading.

Based on our experience, it is ok to submit IELTS Exam results older that than one year but less than two years. But if you don't want to take the risk of delaying the process, go ahead and write the exam again.

LMO Expiration | Limited Validity Period for Labor Market Opinions

noreply@blogger.com (Apol) — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 06:00:00 +0000

This entry is to answer questions regarding Labor Market Opinion (LMO) expiration and the limited validity period for new LMO.

As of November 28, 2009, any LMOs issued before May 19, 2009 with an opinion expiry date of more than six months will be considered to have expired. Therefore, as of November 28, 2009, applications with an LMO containing an opinion expiry date of more than six months after the issuance will be returned as incomplete and the TFW may advise their employer to seek a new LMO.

This transition period is outlined in the Operational Bulletin 152 dated August 28, 2009 (Limited validity period for labour market opinions)

In the past, not all LMO have a date by which they must be used to apply for a work permit (WP). But as of May 19, 2009 HRSDC has established a maximum period of six months during which an LMO may be used to apply for a WP. This six month period is defined by the LMO expiry date.

If you filed an application for work permit with expired LMO, your application will be returned and marked incomplete.

If your LMO is issued before March 19, 2009, you have until NOv 29, 2009 to file your application. Otherwise, you will be needing a new LMO.

For more information about Limited Validity Period for Labor Market Opinions, click here.

Hotel Job Opportunity: Welcome to Hotel De Chat Lodge, Quebec.

noreply@blogger.com (Apol) — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 09:05:00 +0000

If you are looking for hotel job opportunity and you receive an email invitation from Hotel De Chat Lodge, Quebec saying that they are in need of 85 workers, you'll probably get excited.

I just received that kind of email today. Thing is, I'm not even looking for hotel job opportunity and the email wasn't really addressed to me. My email address is probably in the bcc list.

Joke Smith (jokesmith06@yahoo.com) Mon, Oct 19, 2009 at 6:18 PM
To: zxxxxxxxxl@yahoo.com
Hello Friend,

Welcome to Hotel De Chat Lodge, Quebec.

I am Miss Smith the Asst. Human Res. Officer of Hotel De Chat Lodge.
Our Hotel is currently in need of Qualified Men and Women, who can work and live in our Hotel for a period of 3 years under contract basic.

Our Hotel will pay for Applicants Air ticket and the processing of his visa in his or her country. We are still in need of 85 more both men and women from any part of the country for immediate employments.

Candidates who are interested, should contact our coordinator on this email address below:
E- mail: hotels_coordinator@yahoo.ca

NOTE: Only candidates that contacted us via our E-mail address shall be answered.

Miss Smith
The Asst. Human Res. Officer
36 Porte Rue Quebec, QC G1R-1S3 Canada
Tel : + 1 32 3 8 56 1 142
Fax : +1 610 602 4723

"Only candidates that contacted us via our E-mail address shall be answered." This is obviously to entice you in hitting that reply button. That way, they will be able to identify your email address as active and tag it as such. Expect more emails from online scammers if you reply to that email.

The name of the hotel sounds like hotel of cats - Hotel De Chat. hehe! I'm not sure if there is such hotel but from the looks of it, this is just one of those online scams. I marked the email as spam. Please do the same if you received similar email.

How to become a Canadian Citizen | Citizenship Week 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Apol) — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 23:32:00 +0000

As part Citizenship Week 2009 celebration, Canada will welcome hundreds of new Canadian citizens during the citizenship ceremonies across the country. Hundreds of Canadians are also expected to reaffirm their commitment to Canada during Citizenship Week 2009.

Here's the basic requirements to become a Canadian Citizen-

To be eligible to become a Canadian citizen, you must meet the requirements in all of the following areas:

Age
You must be at least 18 years old to apply for Canadian citizenship

Permanent resident status
You must have permanent resident status in Canada, and that status must not be in doubt.

Time lived in Canada
To become Canadian citizens, adults must have lived in Canada for at least three years (1,095 days) in the past four years before applying. Children do not need to meet this requirement.

Language abilities
You must know enough English or French to understand other people and for them to understand you.

Criminal history (prohibitions)
You cannot become a citizen if you:

have been convicted of an indictable (criminal) offence or an offence under the Citizenship Act in the three years before you apply

are currently charged with an indictable offence or an offence under the Citizenship Act

are in prison, on parole or on probation

are under a removal order (have been ordered by Canadian officials to leave Canada)

are under investigation for, are charged with, or have been convicted of a war crime or a crime against humanity or

have had your Canadian citizenship taken away in the past five years.

Knowledge of Canada
To become a citizen, you must know the rights and responsibilities of citizens, such as the right and responsibility to vote. You must also know some things about Canada’s history and geography, and about its political system.

For more information on how to apply for Canadian Citizenship, click here.

Language Training Vouchers for Newcomers

noreply@blogger.com (Apol) — Sat, 17 Oct 2009 08:21:00 +0000

Language Training Vouchers is the latest program by the Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism Canada. It will benefit newcomers who are permanent residents and need official language training currently access free training via local settlement service providers. Initially the program will be available to some 2,000 newcomers, chosen randomly in Ontario, Nova Scotia and Alberta.

“Language Training Vouchers” to help newcomers succeed

Ottawa, October 16, 2009 — Starting this fall, new immigrants will receive “Language Training Vouchers” as part of a pilot project to encourage newcomers to participate in settlement programs, Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism Minister Jason Kenney announced today.

“Speaking English or French is key to finding meaningful employment and successfully integrating into Canadian society,” said Minister Kenney. “Whatever we can do to help newcomers take language training is a step in the right direction.”

More information here.

Rain or shine, see you this Sunday at Angeles City!

noreply@blogger.com (Apol) — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 04:08:00 +0000

Rain or shine, the Live and Work in Canada information seminar will push through this coming Sunday, October 18, 2009, 2pm-5pm.

*image credit: www.balibago.org

Venue is at Century Resort Hotel in Balibago, Angles City.

If you are interested to learn your options, make a reservation now!

For existing clients who want to submit documents and or see us for consultation, please get in touch with your assigned consultant. Or simply contact me at mobile number 0928-5008826.

See you!

Who May Apply Under Special Immigration Measures for Typhoon Victims in the Philippines?

noreply@blogger.com (Apol) — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 06:16:00 +0000

I've been receiving tons of questions about this Special Immigration Measures for Typhoon Victims in the Philippines. Some say that FSW applicants may also avail of this program according to what they hear from the brother of their neighbor's cousin from the Zimbabwe.

Here's what is written in the Canadian Visa Office Manila website:

Effective immediately, priority processing will be available to those who identify themselves as being directly and significantly affected by Typhoon Ketsana in the Philippines in the following categories:

New and existing sponsorship applications at the Case Processing Centre in Mississauga from Canadian citizens and permanent residents who have close family members directly affected by this disaster in the Philippines (specifically, spouses, common-law and conjugal partners, dependent children, parents, grandparents and orphaned family members within the meaning of the Family Class);

New and existing applications at the Case Processing Centre in Vegreville from protected persons including close family members directly affected by this disaster in the Philippines in their application (specifically, spouses, common-law and conjugal partners, dependent children);

New and existing applications for permanent residence in Canada in the Spouse or Common-law Partner in Canada Class and the Permit Holder Class from persons who are including close family members* directly affected by this disaster in their application

Family members* of persons in the Live-in Caregivers Class (LC2), who are living in the affected area, where the primary applicant has submitted an application for permanent residence to the Case Processing Centre in Vegreville;

Family Class and LC2 applications from persons directly affected already in process at Manila; and

Temporary resident applications from persons directly affected in the Philippines.

* Family members as defined in part 1 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations.

More information here.

Proposed improvements to the Temporary Foreign Worker Program

noreply@blogger.com (Apol) — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 06:53:00 +0000

Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism Minister Jason Kenney announced today proposed regulatory amendments to the Temporary Foreign Worker Program which include:

a more rigorous assessment of the genuineness of the job offer;

limits to the length of a worker’s stay in Canada before returning home; and

a two-year prohibition from hiring a temporary foreign worker for employers found to have provided significantly different wages, working conditions or occupations than promised.

Expect changes in the work permit application program in the coming months.

“The regulatory changes being proposed today are the result of extensive consultations and address the most significant concerns identified through that process,” said Minister Kenney.

“These changes are an important step by our government,” said Human Resources and Skills Development Minister Diane Finley. “They reiterate that our government is committed to improving the integrity of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program, while ensuring that temporary foreign workers filling a need in sectors where there are still labour shortages are afforded the necessary protections.” [Source]

Hopefully, the proposed improvements to the Temporary Foreign Worker Program help in expediting the work permit applicatin.

SSS Record for Permanent Resident Visa Applicant

noreply@blogger.com (Apol) — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 06:52:00 +0000

Several months ago, I wrote about Social Security System (SSS) Static Information stating that it is normally being required by the Canadian Visa Office in Manila for Temporary Foreign Worker and Caregiver program applicants.

Now I would like to add that Social Security System (SSS) Static Information may also be required for Permanent Resident Visa applicants.

Here's an excerpt from the letter received by our of our clients

Dear Applicant,

This refers to your application for permanent residence in Canada.

We have now completed an initial review of your application. A visa officer has determined that a personal interview will be required to further assess your ability to meet Canada's immigration requirements.

We have scheduled an interview for you and your spouse on October XX, 2009 at XX:XX p.m. at the Visa Section of the Canadian Embassy which is located at RCBC Plaza, Ayala Avenue, Makati City.

Please bring the following with you on your interview:

o all your SSS records
o your passport used to travel to Canada
o all/all old and valid passports for yourself and for your spouse, for identification

- extra ID to surrender to lobby guard

This is the only correspondence you will receive from us prior to the interview.

I assisted this client first in her tourist visa application. She was able to get an Arranged Employment Opinion (AEO) from that visit to Canada. She then returned to the Philippines and I assisted her on filing her Federal Skilled Worker program application. The process took longer than it should. We made a follow up and then we received this interview notice.

We will schedule an interview rehearsal this week. She was able to get her SSS records without visiting any SSS Office! You can also get your SSS records here: Social Security System (SSS) Static Information.

Angeles City Seminar Moved to October 18, 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Apol) — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 05:26:00 +0000

I was supposed to conduct a seminar (Live and Work in Canada) at Angeles City this coming Sunday (October 4, 2009) but because of typhoon Pepeng, I decided to move the schedule to October 18, 2009.

Here's the seminar details.

Angeles City, Pampanga
Century Resort Hotel
Balibago, Angeles City
At the back of Casino Filipino)
October 18, 2009, 2pm to 5pm (Sunday)
Seminar Fee: P500 (single) P700 (married)
Reserve a Seat Now!

I apologize for the inconvenience.

Take extra care everyone! Be safe.

Special Immigration Measures for Typhoon Victims in the Philippines

noreply@blogger.com (Apol) — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 02:32:00 +0000

Aside from the up to $5 million humanitarian assistance pledged for the victims of typhoon Ondoy, the Government of Canada announced special immigration measures for typhoon victims in the Philippines.

Government of Canada announces special immigration measures for typhoon victims in the Philippines

Ottawa, October 1, 2009 — Residents in the Philippines who are significantly affected by Typhoon Ketsana are being offered special measures to facilitate immigration to Canada, announced Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism Minister Jason Kenney.

“I would like to express my deepest sympathy and support for the people of the Philippines affected by this terrible disaster,” said Minister Kenney. “This government is moving quickly to reunite Canadians and permanent residents with their families by extending a welcome to those who wish to come to Canada.”

Effective immediately, Citizenship and Immigration Canada’s (CIC) visa office in the Philippines is responding on a priority basis for those directly affected by the disaster.

This will be applied to new and existing applications from Canadian citizens, permanent residents and protected persons who have close family members in the Philippines. They must, however, identify themselves as being directly and significantly affected by the current situation and notify CIC.[Source]

Please note that this applied to Family Class Sponsorship, Temporary Resident Visa and Caregiver program only. It does not apply to Federal Skilled Worker Program.

An Appeal For Typhoon Ondoy Victims

noreply@blogger.com (Apol) — Sun, 27 Sep 2009 09:30:00 +0000

Typhoon Ondoy that hit the Philippines caused an epic flood in Metro Manila, resulting to many families being displaced. The death toll reported reached to about 50 people, mostly women.

Image from http://www.flickr.com/photos/rembcc/

Please help. You can donate to Philippine National Red Cross trough SMS.

Image from http://twitpic.com/jc9j0

For those abroad, you can donate online through TxtPower Paypal account or visit the Philippine National Red Cross website for more information on how you may send your help.

Canada to host G8 and G20 Summits in 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Apol) — Sat, 26 Sep 2009 03:19:00 +0000

Aside from the 2010 Winter Olympics, Canada will be hosting two major summits next year - the G8 Summit and the G20 Summit.

Image from http://sublimefreedom.wordpress.com/2009/04/20/15/

The G20 summit will be held in Muskoka, Ontario in June 2010

"The G8 is smaller, and has a far greater set of shared values and experiences. But it is not a sufficient group to deal with major international economic issues," Prime Minister Stephen Harper told reporters after the summit.

Now that China and India are among the largest economies in the world, "you're past the stage where you can deal with major economic issues with only the established developed countries," he said.

Instead, the smaller group now will focus on national security and non-economic issues, while the G20 will allow China, India, Brazil and others to govern the global economy alongside the Western powers and Japan.

The G20 has existed as a finance ministers' forum since the Asian financial crisis in the late 1990s. Elevating it to a formal annual leaders' summit gives emerging markets the voice they have insisted on since their economies were hit with the recent global meltdown. [Source]

The year 2010 is gooing to be a big year for Canada!

AINP Family Stream Changes Effective September 14, 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Apol) — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 00:24:00 +0000

If you are planning to apply or have just submitted an AINP Family Stream application, please be informed of the following AINP Family Stream changes effective September 14, 2009.

Changes that apply to the Alberta Relative

Former Criteria

New Criteria

Alberta Relative must complete the Family – Sponsorship Affidavit of Support.

Alberta Relative must complete the AINP Family Stream – Affidavit of Support (AINP 006A).

No Settlement Plan required.

Settlement Plan now required with the application as part of the AINP 006A. A Settlement Plan would describe how the Alberta Relative will help the Candidate and any accompanying family members with shelter, food, clothing, finding work in their field and integrating into the community.

On the Family – Sponsorship Affidavit of Support, you must affirm that neither you, nor your spouse or common-law partner (if applicable), have defaulted or are otherwise obligated to meet the conditions of any other sponsorship agreement entered into with a Government of a Province or Territory of Canada, including the Government of Alberta, or the Government of Canada for another sponsored family member who has obtained their permanent residence in Canada.

On the AINP Family Stream - Affidavit of Support, you must identify whether or not you or your spouse or common-law partner (if applicable), have submitted previous applications to the AINP Family Stream only and what the status is of those previous applications.

Please note that if the Alberta Relative or anyone in the Alberta Relative’s household has already submitted an application under the AINP Family Stream where a decision has not yet been made or where a commitment of support is still in effect, a second application should not be submitted.

Alberta Relative can demonstrate funds ($10,000 CAD for the Candidate and $2,000 for each accompanying dependent) on behalf of the Candidate.

Alberta Relative can no longer demonstrate these funds on behalf of the Candidate. The Candidate or the Candidate’s spouse/common-law partner must demonstrate these funds.

Changes that apply to the Candidate

Former Criteria

New Criteria

Candidate must complete the Family – Application for Nomination (AINP 006).

Candidate must complete the AINP Family Stream – Application for Nomination (AINP 006B).

The Candidate or their Spouse/Common-law partner (if applicable) must be able to demonstrate completion of a post-secondary degree, diploma or certificate program of at least one (1) year in duration.

The Candidate or their Spouse/Common-law partner (if applicable) must be able to demonstrate completion of a post-secondary diploma or degree program of at least two (2) years in duration.

The Candidate or their Spouse/Common-law partner (if applicable) must be able to demonstrate one of the following:

a minimum of three years of full-time work experience within the past four years
a minimum of three years of full-time post-secondary school within the past four years
a combination of three years of full-time work experience and full-time post-secondary school within the past four years.

The Candidate or their Spouse/Common-law partner (if applicable) must be able to demonstrate one of the following:

a minimum of three years of full-time work experience that is related to individual’s post-secondary credential within the past four years
a minimum of three years of full-time post-secondary school within the past four years
a combination of three years of full-time work experience and full-time post-secondary school within the past four years. The education and work experience must be related (i.e. an Engineering degree and working as an Engineer).

Proof of accessible funds ($10,000 CAD for the Candidate and $2,000 for each accompanying dependent) had to be in a recognised Canadian financial institution.

If you could not demonstrate these funds in a recognised Canadian financial institution, your Alberta Relative could submit this proof of funds.

Proof of accessible funds ($10,000 CAD for the Candidate and $2,000 for each accompanying dependent) can now be demonstrated from a financial institution in your home country.

The Alberta Relative can no longer demonstrate these funds on behalf of the Candidate.

How will these AINP Family Stream changes may affect your application?

If your application was submitted before September 14, 2009, your application will be assessed based on the previous criteria. If you have submitted a complete application, you are not required to complete the new version of the forms or include additional required supporting documentation.

If your application was submitted before September 14, 2009, but your application was returned to you as incomplete on or after September 14, 2009, you will be required to submit a new application and it will be assessed based on the new criteria. When you re-submit your application, you will need to complete the most current version of the application forms and include all required supporting documents. If you do not submit the new forms, your application will be returned to you.

If your application was postmarked on or after September 14, 2009 but before September 26, 2009, your application will be assessed based on the new criteria. You must complete the most current version of the application forms and include all required supporting documents. If you submit a complete application with the previous forms during this two week time period, you will receive a letter instructing you to complete and send in the new forms within 30 days. Wait until you receive the letter to send in any new documents.

If your application was postmarked on or after September 26, 2009, your application will be assessed based on the new criteria. You must complete the most current version of the application forms and include all required supporting documents. If you do not submit the new forms, your application will be returned to you.

To avoid delay in processing of your AINP Family Stream application, please be guided with these changes effective September 14, 2009.

Landing in Canada: Prepare yourselves

noreply@blogger.com (Apol) — Sun, 20 Sep 2009 06:24:00 +0000

Since more and more are receiving their permanent residents visa fast, the next concern that these applicants will have is how to prepare themselves for their landing in Canada. Here are some tips from a former colleague at Canadian Immigration Consultancy, Ms. Marivic Solis.

She landed in Canada on December 2008. You will learn a thing or two from her experience.

So, this is it! The minute I landed at the Vancouver International Airport, I get to experience the things that I used to tell our clients. Now, putting those tips in reality is another thing. I realized that most of the tips we shared to our clients were the same tips that I applied in my own situation. There are a bit of some deviations but it only boils down to one thing ---- the feeling of landing as an immigrant to Canada is an extraordinary one.

Euphoric first days
The first few days upon landing in Canada is revealing for a first-time immigrant. One good thing about the Canadian government is that they have a well-funded immigrant settlement program. Thanks to the immigrant organizations. I have the opportunity of dealing with the Centre for Newcomers and the Calgary Immigrant Women’s Association. Both of them have Filipino counselors. (It is a lot different dealing with “kababayans” since they will give you 150% support.) These organization offer more than just providing you with information. CIWA for instance, offers free legal clinic that allows you to talk to an immigration lawyer or to a family lawyer (for free). Also, at CIWA, I had the chance to do volunteer work which counts as a Canadian experience – something that you can put into your resume when looking for a job. I volunteered to work for the Women’s Day and to assist the computer instructor in his classes.

It also pays to be resourceful and find out what programs and services you can benefit out of being a new immigrant. There are more good things than bad --- you get a free bed (the only setback is that you need to wait for a few months). If you go to Scotia Bank and tell them that you are new immigrant, they welcome you by letting you open without putting up a deposit (incidentally, I had already set up my account with another bank until I learned that this bank has a better program for new immigrants.) Scotia Bank will even throw you in with an unsecured credit card!

(By the way, if you chose Alberta, you do not have to pay for your health insurance premium, which is a good thing --- that is around $60 dollars or more off your pocket.)

Job hunting: quite an experience
It was on my first week in Canada that I got a job offer. However, I did not start working on that job since I was asked to report after the holidays. I arrived in Canada shortly before Christmas and everyone was in a holiday mood. I took that opportunity of going through the internet, searching for more job opportunities. It was very tough considering that the recession fever has just set in Calgary and I couldn’t get a job interview not until after Christmas. After turning in so many resumes online, finally, I got another job interview with one of the biggest hospitals in Calgary. Unfortunately, though the HR Manager wanted to hire, he said that he has to follow the hiring policy – which is – that one should be hired if he has the proper qualification. It turned out that I need to get a Medical Assistant Certification. However, it did not discourage me. I still have a few more interviews after this.

Barely after a month of searching, had I finally landed a job that I really wanted. My tip to a new immigrant: keep looking for the job that you wanted to work in. It does not matter if it may take longer but the minute you landed on a job that is not in line, you may have difficulty jumping to another job.

Settling down
With a job in hand, the next thing to do to is to get settled in a community that you want to live. I had to move to 2 different places before I finally decided what area to live in. Factors that I considered is the location of the school, the church, the stores (malls, of course --- knowing how much we Filipinos love to go to the mall), among other things. I am blessed to find a place where it is just walking distance to Wal-Mart and to a Filipino store, of course.

Now, I am settled with a job that I love (and a boss that I love working with!) --- I can’t believe that I will be working in Sales Department. My son goes to school on 3rd Grade. (Going to school is not really free: there are fees to pay but they are minimal as compared to the fees in the Philippines. However, you need to pay for the lunchroom supervision, which is a new thing for us. (It costs $26/monthly). The idea is to have the kids eat their lunch supervised (and make sure that no kid bullies another kid). The only thing that concerns me now is babysitting. I realized how expensive it is to have a nanny here in Canada. (You cannot leave your kids alone if they are below 13.)

One final word…
For those who wanted to immigrate to Canada – be brave enough. It is not easy leaving your comfort zone --- friends, family, officemates -- the environment that you have accustomed to since the day you were born. I have learned to love Canada and its people. Although, most of the times, I still long for Filipino shows (and the Filipino “chismis”). If asked if I have to live my life again, I would still do the same thing, which is, to go to Canada!

This testimony is just a repost from Canadian Dream. I hope Ms. Marivic Solis' story will help you in your preparation for your landing in Canada.