Shruti's Point of View | Canada Visa | Settle in Canada

Navigating the Unpredictable Canadian Housing Market: Can We Really Afford a Home Anymore?

2024-09-09T20:08:00.000-06:00

The Canadian housing market has always been a topic of debate, but recently, it has become a source of concern for many Canadians. With fluctuating interest rates, increasing unemployment, and a rising cost of living, the dream of owning a home seems more elusive than ever. Middle-class Canadians, once considered well-off, are now grappling with the harsh reality that their financial stability is deteriorating. What has caused this unpredictability in the housing market, and can we even afford a home in today’s climate?

Bank of Canada’s Role: Lower Interest Rates—Hope or Illusion?

The Bank of Canada recently started reducing interest rates in an attempt to ease the economic burden on Canadians and stimulate the housing market. Lower interest rates mean more affordable mortgage payments, right? At least in theory. Sellers who have been struggling to find buyers are now hopeful that reduced rates will lead to a surge in demand for homes. However, the reality is more complicated.

While a decrease in interest rates does make borrowing cheaper, the broader economic context cannot be ignored. Unemployment and layoffs have surged, leaving many Canadians uncertain about their financial futures. As people lose their jobs or face reduced hours, their capacity to take on significant financial commitments, such as a mortgage, diminishes.

So, while lower interest rates may give some potential homebuyers hope, the question remains: can they truly afford a home if their job security is uncertain?

The Struggles of the Middle Class

The middle class, often seen as the backbone of the Canadian economy, is feeling the squeeze now more than ever. A combination of stagnant wages, rising inflation, and skyrocketing housing prices is eroding their financial well-being. The cost of living has surged, making even basic necessities more expensive. Rent, groceries, and transportation costs are taking up a larger share of income, leaving little room for savings—let alone a down payment on a home.

Many middle-class Canadians who once considered themselves financially stable are now questioning whether homeownership is even attainable. The gap between income and home prices is widening, and it’s becoming clear that the Canadian dream of owning a home is slipping further away for many.

Rising Layoffs and Economic Instability

Canada is not immune to global economic pressures, and as a result, we are witnessing rising layoffs across various industries. The tech sector, manufacturing, and even retail are seeing job cuts, leaving many Canadians worried about their financial future. A housing market that once seemed relatively stable now feels like a gamble for potential buyers, as employment uncertainty looms large.

For sellers, the challenge is just as real. Homes that would have sold in days just a few years ago are now lingering on the market for months. Potential buyers, even those who are still employed, are cautious about making long-term financial commitments. In such an unpredictable environment, buyers and sellers alike are stuck in a holding pattern, waiting for a clear signal from the economy.

The Growing Divide: Who Can Actually Afford a Home?

One of the most troubling aspects of the current housing market is the growing divide between those who can afford homes and those who cannot. Wealthy Canadians and investors seem to be weathering the storm, often snapping up properties as investments. Meanwhile, first-time homebuyers and middle-class Canadians are left in the dust, watching as home prices rise beyond their reach.

This growing disparity is contributing to a sense of frustration and disillusionment, as many Canadians feel the system is stacked against them. The dream of owning a home—a cornerstone of financial security and stability—now feels out of reach for far too many.

The Road Ahead: Can We Stabilize the Housing Market?

The unpredictability of the Canadian housing market stems from a complex web of economic factors. While lowering interest rates might provide some temporary relief, it’s not a long-term solution to the broader economic challenges Canadians face. Addressing unemployment, inflation, and wage stagnation will be critical to stabilizing the housing market.

For now, potential homebuyers are left in a precarious position. Some may choose to wait, hoping that the economic situation improves and housing prices stabilize. Others may feel pressured to jump into the market, fearing that prices will only continue to rise.

Conclusion: A Time for Caution

The Canadian housing market is undeniably unpredictable, and for many, the dream of homeownership is fading. With rising unemployment, stagnant wages, and an increasing cost of living, Canadians are struggling to make ends meet, let alone afford a home. While lower interest rates may provide a glimmer of hope, the broader economic landscape suggests that caution is the best approach.

For middle-class Canadians, the challenge is real: navigating this volatile market requires careful planning, financial foresight, and perhaps most importantly, patience. As we move forward, the hope is that economic conditions will stabilize, allowing Canadians to once again afford the homes they dream of owning. Until then, the unpredictable nature of the market demands that we proceed with caution, keeping in mind the bigger economic picture before making any significant financial decisions.

The housing market will continue to fluctuate, and for many, the uncertainty can be daunting. However, by staying informed and focusing on financial resilience, Canadians can better navigate this turbulent landscape.

Canada: The Grass Isn’t Always Greener

2024-09-08T17:34:00.000-06:00

It's been a while since I’ve been here, writing again. Life happens, and sometimes it overwhelms us. But as I reflect on the recent surge of newcomers to Canada, particularly international students and families, I can't help but ask—what's happening in Canada?

There’s a growing narrative that paints a much different picture than the one many envisioned. International students are facing hardships, from being scammed with work permits to battling the harsh realities of financial instability. The stories are piling up, and the feedback is troubling—many who have made the move are finding that life was actually happier back home.

For families who uprooted their lives to provide better opportunities for their children, the dream of Canada isn’t what they imagined. Many find that their personal ambitions have taken a backseat. They came here hoping for a fresh start, but now feel like they’ve lost something along the way.

On one hand, some appreciate the slower, more laid-back lifestyle that Canada offers. It’s a welcome change for those who were tired of the relentless hustle. But on the other hand, there are those who miss the fast-paced life they left behind. The sense of purpose, the drive, the ambition—they find it difficult to reconcile that with the slower rhythms of Canadian life.

And then, there’s the hidden cost: stress. Divorce rates among immigrant families are rising, and it's becoming clear that the pressure of starting over in a new country is more challenging than many anticipated. The grass seemed greener on this side, but now many are asking—was it really worth it?

Before making the big leap, I’d encourage anyone considering a move to Canada to pause and think carefully. Life here has its perks, but it also comes with its own set of struggles. The dream of a better life can sometimes lead to unexpected sacrifices. Is it really greener on the other side, or just a different shade?

Think again!

Which City/Province to settle - Depends on your needs

2019-05-23T12:06:00.000-06:00

Many people moving to Canada often wonder where they would settle.This is a big question and a life changing question and yes answer too is difficult because it depends on many variables like your family size, savings, education and relatives in Canada.

Let's talk about everything here in detail:

When I entered Canada - we were just two - My husband and me. We got approx $20K with us as savings. Was it enough? Well, depends. It was my fees for my Master's degree and we got initial support from my grand parents. We stayed with them for about two months.

I know we moved out pretty soon after my husband got job for $40K which was a big deal for us in 2012. Even moving from Ireland to Canada, gave us a cultural shock. Because we were stupid enough to spend extra on irrelevant items. The stuff we could buy from dollar store for $1, I would swipe my credit card at Walmart for $5. Never realized that taxes are excluded in Canada, because they were all included in Ireland.

Things were definitely different, but we pulled it through. Then came the lay off period - after 4 months my husband was laid off. No other option but to move to west from east. Should I say - I regret? - May be or May be not. I joined him a year later. My husband earned almost triple he was making in ON. Alberta gave me everything I wanted - a secure job, a big single family home, citizenship, two little boys - but what it also snatched from something from us - it was our peace and happiness.

In order to find peace and happiness, we started travelling. We used to make like 5-6 trips to Mexico and US so that we can escape the boredom here. I talked to many people and they like AB (again it's because their situation is different than ours), but do I like it? I still don't know.

The reason is pretty simple - our needs. When we moved to west, our needs were to secure ourselves financially (we were just thinking about money). Economic downturn in Alberta has affected my family so much that my husband has been in 8 jobs in the past 3 years after losing his permanent job in 2016. I have no friends and relatives as they are all in Ontario. For how long can I sustain the lifestyle I am living right now? I cannot go on vacations like this. I need stability.

Stability is the key to find where you want to settle. Don't make your decisions depending on what people say/advise. Do your research and settle yourself where you think you can manage to survive.

If you have friends and family in SK, or AB or ON - move there and settle there. Initially it will be hard. ON definitely has competition, but you will survive. If you think moving to some other province can help you - make your call.

You need to consider all the variables because each city/province has their pros and cons and you need to find the balance and compromise.

Hope this helps!

Shruti

Want to know where your PR/WorkPermit/Citizenship/StudentVisa Application is stuck? Here is a way...

2018-08-20T08:53:00.000-06:00

Hello Guys,

Long time, no see... I have been really too busy with my two little kids who make me run on my toes all the time. Anyways, I have answered many people through emails, and one question which many people ask me is this - How long is it going to take after my medical exam (or some other step)?

Well, here is the answer:

Access to Information and Privacy by Canadian Government

The link is here:

https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/corporate/transparency/access-information-privacy.html

If you are inside Canada, you can choose "Privacy Act". It is free.

If you are outside Canada, you have to choose "Information Act". You will have to pay $5 to access this service either by debit/credit card.

This service takes exactly 30 days from the date of your application. Remember, only ask for soft and electronic copies. CDs or hard copies takes a lot of time, and may delay your IRCC application as the department then has to fetch that from IRCC. Electronic files are generated online and do not delay your application.

Best of luck guys, and I hope this helps!

Shruti

How my sister got her student visa?

2014-04-04T15:49:00.000-06:00

Hey guys,

Today I am going to share my sister's experience. How she got her student visa last year. I know rules are changed a little bit this year and I may be quite out dated on it, but there is no harm in getting to know how she got her visa when her visitor visa was rejected three months before she applied for her student visa.

I applied for her study here in a graduate certificate course in Algonquin College in Ottawa. She was admitted there in a week and then her process for student visa started.

The first thing she applied was for Student Loan. Although our parents had enough money to support for her education, I forced them to have a loan paper ready by bank. My father being a bank manager in a public bank in India got that letter within a week.

Then she went to have her medicals upfront. Her medicals were done on the basis of her admission letter issued by Algonquin College and she got the receipt of her medicals.

Then she photocopied all her education certificates. She also sat for IELTS and passed the test.

Once she had done that, she went to the agent to see if she is missing anything. I would advise that if you are in India, "The Chopras" in Nehru Place and "Canam" are best to deal with. My brother went through Canam, although my sister and I went through "The Chopras" as Canam was to busy to handle us.

The agents helped her in little things, prepared her SOP which was perfect and any timeline that was missed was covered perfectly. They have standard templates for SOPs according to the country.

When they had applied for the visa, my sister was very scraed. She was already going through a lot of depression and we all prayed for us. After a week, she was given student visa and she is here in Canada.

So guys, I must say..never lose your hope. God is always seeing us and showering his blessings.

If one visa is rejected, apply again. God will surely get you through!!

- S

Letter of invitation for visitor visa..here is the sample..

2014-04-02T22:45:00.001-06:00

Hello Guys,

How are you? I know most of my friends are googling around to get a sample for an invitation letter that you want to send it for their spouse or parents or siblings visitor visa..I have added here a sample letter which I have used every time for my family and they have got the visa each time. I hope this letter is useful to you too..You may want to tweak it as per your needs ;)

Here is the letter...

The Canadian High Commission

<Address>

Date: <Date>

Subject: Letter of Invitation for Mr. ABC and Mrs. DEF

Dear Sir/Madam,

This is to inform that my name is Ms. XYZ and I am a permanent resident of Canada, currently working as <position> at <Company Name>, <Company Address>.

I have attached herewith a copy of each of my following documents:

• Passport (first and last pages)

• My Permanent Resident Card (or Study permit/work permit)

• Driver’s License as proof of my residential address

• Bank Statement as proof of my financial standing

I would like to invite my parents (as named below) to visit me Canada during the summer time and enjoy the Rocky Mountains here in Alberta <Some genuine explanation>.

Name: Mr. ABC
Date of Birth: <DOB>
Relationship: Father

Name: Mrs. DEF
Date of Birth: <DOB>
Relationship: Mother

I confirm that my parents will stay at my residence at <Address>. I also confirm that I will happily cover all of my parent’s living expenses during their visit to Canada.

Thank you for your time and kind consideration of the attached visa application of my parents.

Yours faithfully,

XYZ
Phone: +1 XXX-XXX-XXXX
Email: yourname@email.com

Hope this letter grants visa to your dear ones too...

Best of luck!!!

Shruti

How I searched for university in Canada..

2014-03-21T06:37:00.001-06:00

Hello Guys,

I'm writing this post inspired by someone who contacted me couple of days ago and asked me how to search or apply for Canadian Universities/Colleges. I'm not any immigration lawyer, but yes I can share the tips which I used when looking to search for Canada.

1. My main goal to look for a university was based on the province where in I can be safe for a little while until my husband can find a job here. My grandparents were there in Ottawa, and as a matter of fact for my own financial security, I chose Ottawa as a place where I would like to go and study.

2. The second thing I checked was that what type of study - Masters/Graduate certificate, should I apply for? Now this decision was made as per my long term goal of PGWP duration and PNP conditions which I had checked to make sure I satisfy all conditions so that once I'm graduate, I can apply for my PR ASAP.

After going through all the research, Masters degree was a better option for me. The only reason - three years of PGWP and job security as Canadian market prefer master graduates more than a graduate certificate applicants.

Also, Ontario PNP had a pilot project for Masters Student, although in realty I went to Alberta and applied my PR through AINP. But Ontario PNP was the only thing that influenced my decision at the time I was applying.

3. How soon can I finish my degree? I did some research and was very confused regarding the credit and grading system in Canada. I did some research and found out that I can take as many credits I want (if I'm capable of completing those study and that depends on my time management skills), I can complete my studies in 1.5 yrs than 2-3 yrs, which I actually did. I took a load on me so that I can save $6000 for a semester by completing my studies in just 1.5yrs.

So, in short the main things that helped in my research was the fact that I had already decided which province and city I wanted to go and university was decided based on the course I wanted to go in.

If you are not lucky like me- then I would advise you to look for a province where you can get part time jobs easily while studying. I'm not favouring any province, because that depends on your preference. But yes, you need to decide some goals or important points before you just start looking for courses in Canada.

Canada is a great country, but again you must know it comes with a lot of struggle too. It's better to be prepared than getting a shock once you arrive here.

Best of luck!

Shruti

My permanent residency experience!

2014-03-14T15:45:00.002-06:00

Hello Guys,

Today, I'm very happy to become landed Canadian permanent resident. Many of you are still in progress and many of you are thinking for applying the residency. I just decided to share my wonderful (though little painful and impatient) experience of Canadian residency. As you would have read earlier, I came to Canada as an international student with my husband as a visitor. When we entered Canada, he applied for his work permit which was issued in 10 days. Surprising, but true. All our relatives said, "Ohh, you guys are so lucky..", well, nobody knew the pain after getting that work permit. However, you guys know my story, so..moving ahead..my husband came to Edmonton, Alberta and got job in 2 weeks. He applied for Alberta Nomination. Generally it takes around a month to get it, but because we were so much jinxed as we got his work permit so ahead of time, our nomination was delayed by 3 months. They interviewed my husband 3 times because I was studying in Ottawa and they wanted to know his intentions. However, when I provided the signed copy of my renting lease in Edmonton, they issued our nomination in the second week of March, 2013. We had applied it in first week of December, 2012.

As soon as we got our nomination, we had already prepared for our PR application - like our police certificates and all, and as we received the nomination in the mail, the same day we sent them the package. It was received to CIO-Sydney on 28th March 2013 and then starts our process. After waiting for 2 months, we got our acknowledgement of receipt and our file number in May, 2013. After a week, we got medical request. We drove 10 hours to Saskatoon to do our medicals asap as there were no appointments available in Alberta. Our medical reached CIO-Sydney in about 2 weeks but our ECAS was updated in first week of July.

Then my husband was transferred for a project in Fort Mcmurray and this made our life difficult. We were relaxed before that, but as he moved there he was pretty sick, allergic to something we don't know. His employers thought that he isn't committed to his work and were bullying him. Even though he was on an open work permit, he couldn't risk to leave his job when PR is in process and that contributed a lot to make this pleasing process - a painful process. I'm sure many of our current permanent residents would have a same story to share. We all think - "Ohh see..he is a PR...he is damn lucky..he has all comforts..", but no one really knows the physical and mental stress one goes into. Anytime, when we get an ECAS update such as "Your application is in process on August, 2013" or any email from CPP-Ottawa, such "Pay RPRF"...it was a happy and merry day for us - a day full of hope, a day where we used to think our worries will soon end.

I made many friends at Canada visa forum who shared their pains, their worries and their experiences. Even if circumstances were different, the pain and that feeling was same. We all were feeling the same feelings. Some haven't met their spouses for like 3 years, some didn't visit their homeland for like 8 years...the pain and impatience for that was just same. We cannot measure that and we cannot compare that. Any how, in the meantime, we all ordered our GCMS notes and shared the information, just to see that where we were and if we all were on the same track. If someone's behind, that would that person a hope and idea about how the process is running.

Well, our life was more painful and full of shock when we got our GCMS notes in November, 2013. Everybody in our group were getting their passport request, or that miracle letter "Ready for Visa Letter" but on our immigration notes, the due date was 30 Jan 2014. We were sad and I cried that day because our process was seemingly delayed for another 3 months and it was our fault - I had send them the letter asking them when to hear for any decision as we are going on a Christmas vacation. Whoever read our email probably thought that we want to delay our process. I was so shattered. Everybody in the forum were getting their emails to send passports, and I was feeling that I'm ditched (by my own mistake).

I was depressed and wanted answers. I wanted to know why God is giving us such a hard time, why my application is extended and my husband who is stressed and not well. My married life was going in trouble. I couldn't even sit with my husband and speak with him about anything. He was all quiet and depressed. I started to read Bhagwad Gita - It's an Indian spiritual book that gives you the spiritual answers and there it had a very nice quote:

"When a man thinks about something, he desires for that. When he desires, he gets impatient. When he gets impatient, he gets angry. And when he gets angry, that's his end. He is going towards destruction".

It seemed I got my answers and I just wrote an email asking CPP-Ottawa that why is my file delayed when it's in process for so long. I received a standard reply on Thursday, 5 December 2013 and on Monday, December 9th, 2013 at 4.45 AM when I checked my ECAS (I wake up early to got to work, just decided to check it), "A decision has been made on your file. An officer will contact you regarding this." I shouted so loudly, that my husband got scared..yeah man, he thought I'm still in my sleepy state. We checked our email, there was NO email from CPP-Ottawa. So, we emailed them and in a couple of hours, we in fact got 2 emails - one from officer and one a generic one - asking us to send our passports. Boom!!! 9th December was the bestest (I know bestest isn't any word..but for me--it is) day of my life. So, now we decided to come back from vacation and send our passports to CPP-Ottawa on Jan 5, 2014.

As we came from our vacation, same day we sent our passports to CPP-Ottawa. It reached there in about 2 days. After 15 days, we got our passport stamped with PR Visa and our COPR (confirmation of permanent resident). I waited for my husband to come back from Fort Mcmurray and we went to border to do our landing.

Landing experience

Landing experience was quite normal. We got a speeding ticket on our way to Caraway Border. Never mind, all is well that ends well. We went to the US border and told US officer that we are here for taking a U-Turn to Canada. He asked why and we said for our landing He was confused but allowed us to take a U-turn. We had US visa and so, he didn't gave us any yellow/pink sticker. We took U- turn and told CBSA officer that we are here for landing. He asked us why didn't we make any appointment.We said because appointment waiting time was like 2-3 months.

He said that it depends on the rush if we can do your landing. Ha! there was no rush. There were 4-5 people ahead of us. He took our COPR, passport and old work permits and asked us to wait. We waited for like 1.5 hours and then he called our name. We went and he said, "Now you are permanent resident of Canada. You will receive your PR card by mail". We thanked him and left from there.

And then we Partied!!!! Hope my experience is helpful to you!!!

Best of luck with your PR application!!

Shruti

New to Canada and Wana Save Money on some Items??

2014-03-14T15:35:00.002-06:00

Hi Guys,

How are you all. Well, my this post is after quite a long time. Now, that I'm permanent resident here, I was busy in house hunting. So, when I was looking for houses, I came across so many websites and found some information that I thought would benefit our new Canadian residents.

Well, be it a student, or worker or a new permanent resident, when you come to this country, you have some money but obviously that money is very important for you survival here in Canada. When we look for houses here, we have to buy lots of stuff that can be quite expensive. No body gives freebies to anybody, but you can definitely find freebies like chair, old TV set, mattresses etc. for free.

There are many websites out there that wherein people posts things they don't want. Sometime they just keep it in front of their houses, sometimes they put it on these websites. One of the very famous websites is www.kijiji.com where-in people put lots of things to be picked up for free or may be at very less price.

The other website is https://www.freecycle.org/ where in you can select your group/area where-in you live and find free items if anybody is offering. This can be a great resource to those to who are new to Canada and trying to get settle in this amazing country.

Hope this helps,

Shruti

Canada to US - Air Travel only with work permit

2014-01-06T08:08:00.003-07:00

Hello Guys,

I've just returned from a Christmas break with my husband and would like to share our experience. I was searching a lot for people to share their experiences while they travel to US by air on work permit/study permit. Unfortunately, I got many conflicting reviews and so, I decided to share my own experience with everybody. So, YES you can return to Canada from US on a work permit/student permit as long as you are only going to US St. Pierre and Miquelon and obviously, you need US visitor visa to travel to US - except for people belonging from visa exempt countries.

So, when we planned my trip, we were expecting to land with our PR visa but as everybody knows, Canadian Immigration doesn't work as we plan, and we got our "Ready for Visa Letter" just 10 days before our trip and so, we decided to send our passports for stamping after we return from our vacation from US. My husband and I both have our work permits but our temporary resident visa that allows us to re-enter Canada was expired. We didn't renew it because our PR was in processing and we thought that we may get it around October end or early November. So, we were in big dilemma and all of a sudden a friend from Canada visa forum told me that we can go to US with our work permit and I was like...Really??

So, I decided to do some research and I found out many varying responses. I even put my question on the forum and people just shared their 3-4 year old experience. I wanted someone who have travelled this year. Well, 1-2 people confirmed but no one shared their full experience like any questions asked, any difficulty etc. So, then I called CIC and they confirmed that we can re-enter to Canada from US as long as we have just travelled to US on our study/work permit. Here is a snapshot of my email (you can click on the image to read it clearly):

I was pretty happy with the email but still I wasn't satisfied. I guess it's just mine mental health issue. I searched and searched and found this: http://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/regulations/SOR-2002-227/page-80.html#docCont, under Division 5 of Temporary Resident Visa Exemptions (Point 190 (3)(f) for Visa exemption - purpose of entry)

I printed both the documents. I kept my post graduate work permit and my expired study permit. I kept my expired study permit because I entered Canada as a student (my passport just had my student TRV) and if in case, any questions asked, I can always show them my study permit and I packed my bags and left for the airport.

While going to US - airport experience

While going to US, we had our pre-immigration clearance at the Edmonton International Airport. The US immigration official just asked us where we are going, took our finger prints and then stamped our passport. After that was done, our US flight was treated more likely like the domestic flight as there was no US immigration when we reached Orlando, Florida.

Returning to Canada - airport experience

Well, while returning to Canada, we were bit stressed as will we be allowed to enter Canada. Although we had all the supporting documents, it was just a concern we were having. We flew through WestJet and they just checked our passport photo for identification purposes. Well, I would say it was very convenient when we landed to Edmonton airport. We showed our passports and our work permits to the immigration officer. He just asked that where we went in US, which hotel we stayed and what shopping we did from US. Then he just stamped our passport and let us into Canada.

Well, this was my experience. I hope its helpful to all the people who are looking for this information. Share your experience if you may have any.

Is permanent job really permanent? - Continued........

2013-11-12T09:19:00.001-07:00

Hi Guys,

I hope you all are doing well. Well, my last blog "Is permanent job really permanent?" got many critical reviews. Some of them were even commenting and relating it to marriage saying that - "Is marriage permanent? we all take vows of 'till death do us apart' but end up being divorced". Well, I am not here to argue because you know some people are very lucky to get anything what they want and some just try and try and try and are still trying. My blog here is not for those who are lucky because lucky people always get anything they want and find success with no issues, but I'm writing this blog who are struggling. And yeah, my blog isn't about any gossips - it's a real truth that I am writing after I meet with people who share their personal experiences.

We as a immigrant come to our dream land with our savings and dreams to achieve success. It's very true that success isn't achieved easily. We struggle and work hard and people try to exploit us according to our circumstances. I have met so many people who are either here on temporary work permits here or their permanent residency is associated with their jobs, and are waiting to change their jobs. The only reason is that they are being exploited some way or the other by their employers.

It is absolutely right that nothing is certain in this life - marriage, death etc. It's true that we take vows in our marriages and they sometimes end up in divorces - but again marriages and jobs aren't same. Is it? In marriage you are personally and emotionally tied but in job it's your obligation. You marry as per your choice but do you work as per your choice? And again you can end up your marriage yourself but is it true with your job? Again, I am not writing about quitting the job, I am writing (and have written - in my previous post) about how for useless reasons our job is terminated.

My husband was laid off because he didn't know French and they wanted somebody who is Anglo-Français. They should have hired a person according to their needs in the very first place. They gave him two weeks of notice. Is that enough? It might not be hard for Canadians to find a nice job here, but it is definitely hard for a new immigrant to find a job with a qualification done outside Canada. In his second job my husband was told that he could lose his job if didn't go to north of Alberta for a project. It's been 6 months we are living in same province (7 hours driving distance) but separate due to work conditions. Was my husband given an option? My husband wanted to leave, can he? No - because of his permanent resident application obligations. His employers knows that he can exploit my husband and he can't do anything because if he just says he isn't interested, he can fire him, inform CIC and his application can be cancelled.

A friend of mine worked in renowned luxury resort as an executive chef and he came here under CEC category 3 years ago. Under CEC theoretically (with 76 passing points) he is qualified enough to get a job. Still struggling and serving coffees. Can he leave his job - No because he has a one year old child, but surely he can be terminated if he comes late. So, is marriage and job same?

And yes you are saying about the written notices. My husband wasn't given any written notice. He was just informed. Can we argue? No why because we want good reference from them. Yeah, in my previous post the person who was late by 15 mins was given a notice before. But was that in his hand? He was merely late by 15 minutes and that's because there was a problem with public transport. Second time he was late was because of weather conditions. But you know if they want to get rid of you, they can get rid you despite any relevant/irrelevant reason they might have/generate.

Again, not all employers are bad. Some are really realistic. That is why people want to be employed in public/government jobs because they are safe and secured. But there are many other people who are dealing with this type of lay-offs.

I am only writing this blog so that I can clear the myths and misconceptions that our immigrant brother and sisters have. I am not trying to scare people. I have a nice employer and I love working there. On the other hand my husband is struggling. The difference I can see is that - I'm educated here and my husband isn't. If you don't agree then just write your good experience so that may give hope to others but do not contradict other's opinions. This is my blog, my personal experiences and my reviews. You are most welcome to share yours. If I am writing something wrong, then share your legal knowledge so that along with me, our other immigrant brothers know what's ethical and what's not. Share us any knowledge so that we can be lucky as others are and do not worry about our jobs.

Everybody say Networking!!! - Is really a fact or a Myth?

2013-08-13T21:33:00.001-06:00

Hello Guys,

I hope my previous articles would been beneficial in assisting you if you may have any doubts or uncertainties in your mind before coming to Canada or after you have landed. This post is not for demotivating anybody and as I say these are my personal experiences which I encountered here with my family and friends. Today I am writing about networking. Ever since we landed in Canada and looking for a job we were the hot topic in all gathering we went to. Every other person advised make "Networking". Well, we went to gathering to make networking, right? Did it help? - No.

Every other sites may tell us to make networking, give cold calls to company's to see if they have any openings or to just drop in and give resume to the receptionist. Well, does it help? - Maybe. To be true this may not be fruitful now unless your known is really at a very high position to influence others in his company to appoint you. Why? Here are the reasons -

1. Email me - When I contacted my knowns who were really at a very positions in some big companies which I do not want to name here (Obviously!!), they all told me to email the resume and when I followed up with them, "My email never reached their Inbox". Funny right, but true! No body really cares.

2. Checkout these links - This happened to me when I was very tensed and contacted my very dearest uncle (who is director in a very big company in Toronto). He said not to worry and he is gonna send me some job profiles. I was happy, told my husband, "see my uncle is great, he will help" and when I saw the links, my reaction was - huh?!! He send me these links -

www.indeed.com

www.workopolis.com

www.jobsincanada.com

I was like - Really? I was so foolish....

3. Work for free - I contacted my another networker and requested if he may know any job openings. He gave me a number to contact. I asked my husband to call that person. On the telephone the person said, "Well, you don't have any Canadian Experience - You need to work for free for 6 months and if I will have any opening after 6 months, we will put you on payroll." Really? - Is for this we ever came to Canada? We don't mind working for free and gain experience, but who the hell will pay our rent and groceries? Are we getting any rebate/subsidy from government - No.

4. Forget high profile jobs, go for survival jobs - Every other person I came in contact said these same words, "everybody in Canada doesn't get a nice job, they have to do survival jobs". I don't mind doing survival jobs, but do you really need to demotivate people and break their dreams and confidence? We also know that if we won't get a job in our area of expertise, we will go for survival jobs. But why to demoralize them? Caution is a different thing and true friends really caution but they convey the message in such a way that people do not get demotivate. I always tend to give hope to others and really promise at least if I cannot assist them with job, I won't mock them or their conditions, or gossip about them in public.

People I just want to say that networking is not bad but it's not useful if you encounter who are crook and tend to take opportunity of your misery. It's always good to make contacts, but make them with those who are worthy. After my these encounters - I made two motto's of my life - First, "first impression is the last impression", this does not apply for us, but for those with whom we are making our contacts. Talk with them and analyze to see if they are the one who just blabber or the one who can really make any difference. If they really make an impression that they are really helpful, go forward and befriend with them else leave them. Second, "never trust strangers". We were always told when we were children to not to trust strangers, so why do we forget it when we grow up? Trust if broken gives pain and so not trusting anybody will never disappoint us and nor it will give us this feeling that we were betrayed. These are my mottos. You have to decide yours. Just want to add one more thing, always remember "God help those who help themselves". Hope this helps. Please share your views.

Shruti

How to apply PostGraduate Work Permit? - Here are steps for you...

2013-08-08T20:17:00.003-06:00

Hey Guys,

Studies are over and postgraduate work permit aka PGWP application in process. Well, I am sure with the new system, like me most of you would also have faced some issues with personal checklist in MyCIC. Well with here are some steps for you. I used these steps and I am sure these will be clear and helpful for you while applying for PGWP.

Note: Make sure you have access to scanner and credit card if you are applying online.

Here is the PDF that would assist step by step. I found it while I was searching proper information for myself..

Application Guide - Post-Graduation Work Permit

Hope this helps!!!

Shruti

How to find a job in Canada?

2013-07-29T19:56:00.000-06:00

Hello Guys,

I know I am bit late on my next blog, but what to do I got so busy at work and didn't have any time to write upon. Reading so many review over my blog, I'm really happy and bit sad when I come across various forums such as Indusladies, Canada Visa where people are asking how to get a job in Canada.

Canada is a great country and I really love it but to be true, if you read my previous blogs, you will get to know that it doesn't offer you comforts from the very start. People bring their life savings here to settle but unfortunately, nothing helps. If you really want to come to Canada and settle here, follow my advise here.

1. Don't fall into consultants

Consultants do not help. They are all fake. They give you false advises, some may even bring you here, but to be true if you come through consultants, then you are stuck. I am not scaring you, but advising you my friends. I was also in the same boat, forcing my husband to go to consultant pay him $20,000 to get a job in Canada. But all my gratitude to my dear God, my husband was very adamant. He stated instead of going through consultant and paying him huge amount, he spent his life savings over me. He sent me here to study and then came here on dependent visa. Leaving my story, you can read that in my other posts, I would like to tell you the story of a lady whom I came across a while ago. She and her husband with two kids came to Canada through a consultant from Dubai. They gave $18,000 to consultant and the consultant brought here on a survival job. Her work visa stated that she was working for an employer who was fake. Yes, when she came here she realized that there is no employer. Her husband had quite his job in Dubai, Her children were only 2 & 4 years old. Her husband came here as dependent. He started looking for job, but none helped. At last, the husband returned to Dubai at his earlier job leaving his family here, and his wife is still going around that firm but nobody helps. I asked her to contact immigration and let them know about the situation, but she doesn't want to go them fearing they will deport her. She doesn't know that it wasn't her fault, at least they will help in eradicating this type fraud.

Guys, I really don't want you to give your hard earned money to these people. Instead do some research. I know there aren't any forums that would clearly suggest the problems people face, and so, I decided to write about it.

2. Go for Canadian education

Yeah, even if you are a PHD from any country other than North America and Europe, you will have much difficulty in finding a job here. Experience doesn't matter, higher education none. It only matters in getting the points for your permanent residency application but real Canada is different. If you really want a job in Canada, then enroll yourself in some one year study program and then you will see wonders. You will get the job soon atleast much early. Yes, that's true. Canadians only regard their qualification and experience. They feel that people from third world countries may not have those work ethics that they have here. It is hard to confess but true. Canadians are not racial or partial. They give equal opportunities but you need to get their education for that. My husband studied in England and came here. He got the job in his field with much difficulty and is still struggling to get a stable job that will allow him to get home at 5PM. He his an accountant working in Fort Mcmurray (North of Alberta) away from his wife and struggling. He spent all his life savings on me. Even before graduating from my Masters, I had the job in my hand! That's truth my brothers and sisters. I really regard my husband for all the efforts he did for me.

3. Don't bring family

Yes, if you are deciding to come to Canada, do not bring your family here until you get a job here. At least one spouse working is very important that could earn money, feed the children. Biggest mistake that everybody does is that they get super excited and bring their families here. All their life savings are sucked up and then they struggle and feel depressed. If you want to come here, leave you wife and children back home. Visit here and try your luck. See if the weather suits you, hows the job market; summer (May-August) is very slow-everybody goes on holidays and nobody is hiring. Find some job here and when you think is feasible, bring your family here. This way your savings will be intact and your family will not suffer the trauma.

4. Go to rich province

Saskatchewan and Alberta are the richest provinces in Canada. Do your research and see which province and city matches your skills. Ontario is going down now, no jobs and full of competition among immigrants and newly graduates.Discuss with people on forums. Canada Visa forum is a good place to talk too. People help there and give proper knowledge.

Please my dear friends, I appreciate that you want to come here and turn your life around. But Canada is no fairy tale. There is a lot of struggle. The irony is that our people are trying to rip us off in the form of fraud and consultants. People who are settled here doesn't want to provide true knowledge. Since they have achieved everything, they give false knowledge and hopes to others. I have faced this myself. What to say about unknowns when your known betray you. But I can assure you one thing, its only about break. Once you get a chance, Canada will provide you everything you desire. Its all about patience and trust on yourself and our God.

Note: I have come across many reviews on my post on Canada Visa forum. Friends, I have only written as per what I experienced and got nurtured while speaking with other immigrants. I have never said that I am 100% right. If you want to your opinions and share your experiences, you are most welcome to write in the comments section below. Not all fingers are same and so not everybody agrees what they experience. Share your views here, may be this can assist our other friends!!

Applying for PR inside Canada - PNP

2013-05-31T10:42:00.002-06:00

Hello Guys,

A new post after such a long time. Well, I was kinda busy sorting my life, finding a job and then applying for permanent residency. So, I 'll share some of my experiences with you. Well, its slightly influenced with Alberta Immigration Program, but I guess it can give you a general idea.

My husband moved from Ontario to Alberta to find a job and he got one in 3 weeks (Cheers!!). He is on open work permit because I am an international student. So, as he got a permanent position, he applied for AINP - Employee Driven after 15 days. The initial processing time 1 month. We waited and waited. Nothing. Then, after one month program officer contacted him for more documents. Since I was in Ontario for my studies and he was in Alberta for his job, they doubted that we would eventually go to Ontario once I'll get a job in Ontario. However, my husband provided our lease for home signed for one month by me and him to ensure that we aren't going to stay in Ontario. There is nothing left in Ontario, why would we stay there- no jobs, lots of competition and less money. He wrote this as a cover letter and the progra officer was satisfied. We then waited and waited..still no response. So, my husband contacted them. No reply. My husband again contacted them after 15 days. No reply. So, then my husband got worried and contacted again and they told them that since he is in probation period, his job isn't considered permanent and once his probation is over, they will contact his employer and start processing of application. Well, the process took around 4 months for us to get our AINP certicate.

While we had already applied for our AINP, we didn't want to delay our PR application. So, when we were notified that our application has been received by AINP, we started to gather our documents. We applied for police clearances certificates, birth cirtificates etc. By the time we received our AINP certificate, our PR package was already ready and we just attached our original AINP certificate and mailed to CIO Nova Scotia on the same day. After exactly one month, our money was deducted from our credit card and we recived our acknowledge ment of receipt in 20 days. After 3 days our E-CAS (Client Application Status) got updated with our information and showed the status as 'Application Received'. So, now a week has passed and we are waiting for medical request. On tracking other applications, I observed that CPP-Ottawa generally emails (if you have provided your email address on PR application form) with a week. However, in my case its been over week and still no response. So, I guess it depends on PNP provincial qouta like Ontario PNP applicants got medical requests in just 4-5 days. However, I guess it should maximum take around 2-3 weeks to get medicals request. So, I'm still waiting for it and will keep you posted!!

Best of luck with your applications!!

Shruti

Work Permits - Off Campus Work Permit or Post Graduate Work Permit?

2013-03-06T19:07:00.001-07:00

Hello Guys,

Today I am going to share my research on work permit, especially for students. While students encounter two types of work permit - off-campus work permit (OCWP)and post graduate work permit (PGWP), most of us have many questions like when to apply for OCWP? can we do the job once we graduate but PGWP is under processing and so on. CIC has given many policies that are so vague that one cannot understand that clearly, even if they want to and I am one of them. As you all know that I am student and now I will be graduating this April, I had also done my research by contacting my international office in university, CIC and my pals, and now I am going to share my knowledge with you.

Well, as everybody is aware OCWP allows you to work during your studies and is only issued once you have completed 6 (six) months of your education in University/College. It is actually issued until the tenure of your study permit. But now the question is what happens after you graduate, you have a job offer BUT your PGWP is under processing. At this time the OCWP actually acts as a bridge or transient permit, allowing you to work for 90 days until your PGWP is issued. Once, your PGWP is issued, OCWP is inactive and you work under the conditions specified by your PGWP.

Now another question is about the duration of your PGWP. Well, that depends on your course length. In simple words, If you are doing a Graduate Certificate from College, you will get PGWP for 8 months because on your offer letter, the length of your course mentioned is 8 months. For Masters students, if you are course-based or thesis-based, regardless of the fact whether you completed your Masters degree in 1 year or 1.5 years or more, you will get your PGWP for 3 years. That's true because on your offer letter it states that the official length of your Master's degree in 2-3 years. All my friends in Master's degree who completed in 1 or 1.5 years have got 3 years of PGWP! Undergraduates doesn't have to worry because their course length is usually 4-5 years and so, they get the maximum length of PGWP.

So guys this is the knowledge I have obtained from my sources. If you have any updates available from your experiences, please share and yes, do answer this questions which most of my friends asked me, 'Does the PGWP length depends on official length or current Passport expiry? What is Passport is expiring in 2 years, will they still get PGWP for 3 years? or till the expiry of their passport?'

I am researching for this answer, but all in vain. As you know nobody here knows the exact answers. So, people share your experiences here!!

Thanks,

Shruti

Canada Student Visa Obligations

2012-07-24T08:43:00.000-06:00

Hello Guys,

Today, I'm going to write about student visa problems and how can one overcome that. You know that I'm just a mere blogger and not any immigration professional. This is the knowledge I have gained from the experiences of life. You know every country has its different immigration rules, be it UK, Ireland, US, Australia or Canada. However, one must realize the main weaknesses of the visa rules of a country. The main problem of Canadian student visa is Rule 179, i.e one must satisfy immigration officer about his home ties and his intentions to return to his home country. Everybody knows that you are going to Canada only to get settle there and not to return to your home country, so how can one must assure the immigration officers that you will return to your home country. So, here are some key points you must and must follow to avoid intentions' issue.

1. You must enclose an education loan paper of minimum Rs. 10 lakh. Any bank will only give you loan above Rs. 10 Lakh when they will have a security. Now, Canadian immigration officers would never acknowledge your parent's house papers or your car or any thing else as your ties, but an education loan issued to you against some security will ensure them that you will return to your home country. Also, this will also serve as your financial proof!!

2. You must include a study plan. This study plan must not in long and lengthy paragraphs. Instead, it must be show some key points which an immigration officer wants to see. So, now you will be wondering what details should be given in a study plan. Here, I'll tell you what:

a. What you did after your high school and before the student visa application. If you have any gaps, you can cover it by writing - IELTS preparation, some certification course, and if you were doing job, then you must say that Job + Certification for XYZ. Just show them that you were busy in achieving some sort of education, even if you were working.

b. Show why you chose a particular course. Immigration officers are not familiar with the depth of a course and they find it difficult to connect it with your past qualification. For example, I did computer engineering from India, Masters in Finance from UK and now I'm doing Masters in System Science from Canada. You must be wondering how did I managed to show my course connection and got visa for my second Masters. It's simple. I just printed the course description of System Science course from my university website, and highlighted with marker the only line that 'its an interdisciplinary course and can be used in engineering, finance, economics, accounting, science etc.' By highlighting this, I showed them look your most prestigious university recognizes my qualifications and feel me capable of enrolling in it and guess what..I got visa in three days...So, its very important to highlight your course structure.

c. Show them the total of your finances. It must include a total of all your savings, loan amount both in Indian Rupees/home currency and Canadian dollars.Do not forget to mention the exchange rate and the date, you have followed. This will give them an idea how much funds you will have for your stay. They will be impressed as they do not have to do conversion themselves and will save their time too.

3. You must include an Affidavit from your parents (especially working parent) that he/she will support you. If you are married, then you would - No Objection Certificate signed by your spouse stating that he/she has no objection in sending you to study in Canada and an Affidavit (only if they are working) stating that they will also support you financially.

So, these are the three main key points which will be helpful for you to get your visa approved. Please, do not forget that I'm just a blogger and not an immigration officer. You must consult any agent if required. They have more appropriate information.

I welcome others to add their opinion as well. Good Luck for your student visas!! See you soon in Canada!!

Employment Structure in Canada

2012-07-19T09:40:00.002-06:00

Canada is one of biggest country in the world. It has very sound economy and people are very friendly. To all immigrants, it is the land of paradise, where you hope that your wishes will come true, however, one can say it to be a land of paradise if one is securely employed. One thing that I have noticed in Canada is that employers are very safe here and employees aren't safe at all. There is a very old statement, 'In Canada, one cannot trust three W's - Work, Women and Weather' and yes of course you cannot trust work at all.

Canada's employment laws are very employer biased. Full liberty has been given to those who employ us and no liberty for us at all. There are two kinds of employers - bad employers and very bad employers. Bad employers give certain liberty to their employes. These employers are basically from a very big firms and companies. Very bad employers are those who have small/medium size company and give no liberty at all.

So, here are some key points which lists how employers in canada fool/exploit their employees:

1. When they employ you, they tell you that after probation period your salary will be increased but never increase at all. These are all lies.

2. Most of the time, they will sign a employment contract with you. You will think that now you are safe for a certain period of time but if your employer (especially small/medium companies) won't be having enough work - either they'll ask you to do shitty work such as load the dirty boxes, scan 100-200 papers etc., so that in the end, you get angry and look for other job options or will terminate your contract by just telling you that they are very sorry as they miscalculated before employing you. Moreover, they will say that they will give you excellent reference and time-offs for interview.

No compensation will be given if they terminate your contract because your employment contract will have a small clause/condition* 'Your employer can terminate your contract with one week's notice for an appropriate reason or/if no justifiable reason is presented, the employer has to give notice with sufficient time.' In most cases, you will be given four weeks notice.

3. Most employers will say that they are giving you benefits such as health benefits, disability insurance etc and you have to pay around $100-150 per month which will be deducted from your salary. You will be fooled. The benefits are worthless because these insurances don't pay you much. These are done so that they can keep their insurance premium low by enforcing you to pay for these benefits which are usually never claimed. The employers aren't even ashamed that despite of low income of employees, they are taking money from them just to keep their low insurance premium.

4. You will be given only two weeks holidays. Only those are given 3-4 weeks holiday, who are at a higher position.

So, some solutions -

1. Never love your job/company. Keep looking for new opportunities and switch to them time to time. You never know when you will be given notice.

2. Always buy your own insurance. Never rely on employer's insurance. If employers are giving you insurance without deducting from you salary, you must go for it. There are very rare employers which do that.

This post is from what I have seen in Canada. I know it will scare many of the readers but its better to know truth than being in false impressions!!!

Everybody is welcome to share their experiences as well!!

Average Cost of Living in Canada !! An important source of Information for new comers!!

2012-05-04T12:42:00.000-06:00

Hello Guys,

Yesterday, I have been requested by many people to provide some light on the average cost of living in Canada.
Well it actually matters in which province would you stay. I stay in Ottawa and so, I have ample knowledge of this place. On an average, $1500-$2500 is sufficient for the survival of a family of two members. Today, I shall be writing some websites which will give an idea to new comers about what's an average living cost in Canada.

1. Renting

I am listing following sites which will allow you to know about how much is renting a apartment or house in a particular province.

http://www.padmapper.com/

http://www.rentcompass.com/

https://web5.uottawa.ca/rezweb/search.php

http://www.realtor.ca/index.aspx?cul=1

http://www.247apartments.com/asp/Public/Search/search_results_CA.asp?

These websites will give you an fair idea about how much is average renting in Canada.

2. Food

You can visit websites of many stores such as

www.walmart.ca
www.metro.ca
www.farmboy.ca
www.foodbasics.ca

and many more. Each store has flyers having discounts and promotions every week. This will give you a fair idea on how much is required for food and grocery.

For Indians, there are many Indian stores and on average it shall take around $50. Flour (Atta) costs around $8-$15 for 10lbs (5kgs), forexample, Pillusbury costs around $7 for 10lbs (5 kg), Basmati Rice varies between $8 - $10, cereals cost around $3-$4 for either 1 kg or 2 kgs (basically depends) and also depends on province as well, but it shall be not more than $50-$60.

3. Furniture

You can visits these sites and analyze if you purchase new furniture for your home (as here, unlike Europe, we are given completely unfurnished homes)

1. leon's
2. The Brick
3. Ashley Furnitures

Just visit google.ca and type in the store's name and they will direct you to their specific sites.

I hope that I have tried to be much clearer for our new comers!!

Please guys, give your opinions as well as that will too help our new immigants!!

Important tips for a new Canadian Immigrant!!

2012-05-02T11:38:00.000-06:00

Hello Guys,

After getting so many responses on my post How's life in Canada. My Life in Canada!!, I was prompted to write some important tips which I have learnt in these four months after coming to Canada. These tips can be used by any immigrant whether he is a student, worker or permanent resident.

Tip # 1: Be confident and Optimistic

Coming to Canada is like someone's dream coming true. Yes, like me, many people sum up their life's savings in order to live a life which is much better than their previous life. No matter what, everybody works so hard to come to Canada and so it is also very important to keep this passion alive when you are in Canada. It's very important to be clear in what you want and confident. Before coming to Canada, do your homework properly.

Now many people write this, 'do your homework properly' but I haven't found any blog or website when I was researching before my visit to Canada that what kind of homework do we need to do. Let me tell you this very important thing. First thing is to always keep in mind how much amount of money you will bring in Canada and then when your residency is approved, just find a province which is more opportunistic according to your skills. Many people make this mistake of coming to Ontario or Vancouver, mainly because most of their family lives here. Well, Ontario Province is now at no shortage of skills and so, please make sure that if you want to stay in Ontario, then you have the job market of your skills. Alberta is now a very rising province, and thus, lays many opportunities as well.

Secondly, I would like to focus on the fact that please check the weather of Canada. Yes, weather!! Many of you will laugh or ignore, but this very important fact because when you are living in a certain area you need to familiar with its weather part in order to ensure yourself that it won't be difficult for you to manage in such a weather. Thirdly, transportation is also an very important asset to consider. For example, public transportation in Ottawa is very good while in Toronto, it sucks!!

Finally, looking for an apartment. Here, apartments unlike in Europe, are unfurnished. We need to buy each and everything in order to make it furnished one. Some apartments have utilities included while others do not have. It is very important that you visit online rental websites and make yourself aware with the rent. Moreover, it would also be beneficial to visit any online furniture store and check the prices. Make your budget before you move to Canada. This way you will be focussed and you won't get any sort shock!!

Tip # 2: Apply as many jobs as you can

Give yourselves at least two months time before looking for survival jobs. Yes, that's true. Do not be disheartened and impatient at all. You will find a job in your expertise but it will take time. Why I'm asking you to give yourself some time is because if you enroll yourself with survival jobs, then you might lack your focus and get depressed coping with the fact that you deserved more than what you got. Moreover, do not leave your job back home. Yes, because when you know that you have something back home, you are more confident in looking one in Canada. You know from your heart that you are not in any loss.

Also, apply for nearly 200 jobs a week. Sooner or later somebody will contact you. All say that one should have networking and all that stuff. I do not believe that. I guess networking might help you a bit, but now-a-days no one keeps on job based on someone's preference or if they will keep you, then you might get exploited by low salary or any other way. Have faith in yourself.

Lastly, In this area I would like to say that enroll yourself in some short term course. It will not only help in attaining Canadian qualification, but will also help in getting a job.

Tip # 3: Knowledge of French

Knowledge of French can be beneficial but it's not important. If you are looking forward to stay in, for example, Ottawa, then knowledge of French would be an asset. Many Immigrants are not offered job because french is the primary requirement of most of the employers.

Since, it's only been 4 months for me to be in Canada, I've only written what I felt is right. I would like to welcome more reviews from people settled here so that we can help other immigrants making their life easy here in Canada!!

How's Life in Canada. My life in Canada!!

2012-05-01T13:36:00.004-06:00

Hi Guys,

I'm Shruti and it's been nearly 4 months I have been in Canada and I would like to share my true experience of a Canadian life. You guys must be wondering why am I writing this post. I have specially created this one in order to guide others, like me who wish to visit this country and finally want to make this your home country.

By the way, I'm Indian and I'm married. Since childhood I had this very dream of going abroad and living a luxurious life which I wasn't convinced that I will ever get in India. I came here from Ireland, where I went with my husband and studied for a year. Then, we planned to immigrate to Canada when Irish economy was full of shit and we had no other option but to leave the country. So, Since I was already a student in Ireland, I applied for my second master's program in University of Ottawa (Winter 2012 program) and got my visa. After I got my Canada Student Visa, my husband applied for visiting visa stating that he wants to accompany me to celebrate Christmas and New year in Canada. He got his visitor visa too and we both came to Canada with our eyes full of dreams and success. However, we didn't know what will life unfold for us. I had my family here, my grandparents, maternal Uncle and aunt, my first cousins. We were very happy that we have come to my dreamland where I won't be alone..I would be with my family. My husband applied for Open work permit and he got that within 10 days. Yes, 10 days!! Can you Imagine that??? Its was our good luck!!

We were very happy. But then came the hardest part of our life. Finding job here in Canada. In the first week, he applied for nearly 200 jobs, but no response!! Then, 350 jobs in second week..still no response. He was contacted by many recruitment agencies but because he had no *Canadian Experience and security enhanced certificate*, there was no job for him. Then, our family members starting demotivating us that my husband has to do some survival job here in order to survive here. This caused more and more drift between our relationship. No body was really ever happy to help, despite demotivating us and asking my husband to do a job of Janitor!! Janitor!! Imagine, he was an Accountant in Ireland and Janitor here, to a place which was our dreamland for luxurious life!!

Two Months passed and still no response. Only getting standard emails of refusals and then, to our luck we got a call. The call was from an accounting company which interviewed for a bankruptcy role. Thanks to Bad Irish economy which helped him getting this job. His salary is not too high, but quite enough for our survival. Then we moved out of our family house and have rented our one bed apartment. Staying happily and praying to Lord for his three months probation period to get over happily.

Guys, I have only written this post as this was my promise to Lord to help others who also have their dream to visit Canada and make their home country. I don't think you will ever find anyone who will help others by guiding with their own experience. I just want to say to all of you, if you have family in Canada and they wish you to be here, please never stay with them. They will show you that they are very happy, well they are not. They will make your life hell. Please always be optimistic. This country is very welcoming to youngsters between the age of 21-29. If you are above 30 years, then please do not waste your life savings to visit here and spend all in shit. Do not ever sacrifice your good position back in your home country coz you will never earn that position here. This country is very nice and non-racial. It gives opportunity to those who are young and enthusiastic.

Moreover, Canada is over-regulated country. Getting a job here means you need to have a Canadian qualification or some Canadian experience. If you have any of the both, then luck is on your side. And lastly, never be pessimistic. My husband had no Canadian experience nor Canadian Qualification, but he did Masters from United Kingdom and job in Ireland, and so luck reflected on as well. So, Guys if you still want to make up here, then all you need to be is optimistic and enthusiastic. Please you can drop me any of your queries in the comment box, and I will happily help you guys. This is my promise because I promised my Lord that I will escort others who want to visit Canada.