There are several misconceptions people have about Canada. Canada is a great country, I will not choose to live in another country. It has a policy of inclusiveness and multiculturalism which it tries to implement as much as possible through its programs and services. It is touted as one of the best destination countries for minority population because of its strong human rights record. But before your come you must know certain facts:
a) This country is very cold. If you do not mind the cold great. British Columbia is one province that is not that cold. The prairie - Manitoba, Saskatchewan as well as Northern Ontario are among the coldest parts of Canada. This is the lady of the snow indeed. Winter lasts for more than the 4 months it is supposed to last.
b) If you have professional qualifications be prepared to either go back to school to upgrade or have your credentials discounted. Experience in a foreign country does not count for much. You must be prepared to start from the bottom. Foreign Credential Accreditation has dogged newcomers for many years. It is an issue that the government is trying to grapple with. The gate keepers of the profession - the professional bodies have their own standards and you must meet that. It appears there is not much the government can do to stop that. In most provinces they are trying to get a system of accreditation in place that would work quickly and efficiently.
Your credentials will be given weight depending on where you receive your training. Some foreign universities offer degrees and certificates that are acceptable to Canadian standards.
Many people get frustrated when they come here and find out they cannot practice their profession and must start at the bottom again. They say that while their qualifications were assets within the point system, once they get here it is no longer an asset.
3. Canada is very multicultural. In most larger centers there are many settlement agencies to help you. Some are specialized in helping immigrants while others focus on refugees. In my experience refugees get more support than immigrants. Refugees also need more help because they are generally not as highly qualified. These are people who had to run for their lives from villages and small towns. Many come to these countries from refugee camps so naturally they would need more help.
4. Do not pay money for help when you arrive. All the services you will need are free. All you have to do is ask people. In Manitoba sometimes I feel there are more agencies to help immigrants that the immigrants themselves. That's how many they are.
5. Churches and cultural organizations are also good sources of help for newcomers.
This is all for now. I will continue updating the information in the days ahead
