4 months Canada Visa Processing

If you're still in doubt about the 6-12 months visa processing this may change your mind.

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.

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One of CIC's High Profile Immigration Clients

One of my blog readers asked me this question - If journalists are not included in the list of 38 High Demand Occupations, how come Ms. Marieton Pacheco, former ABS-CBN senior re­porter, was able to immigrate to Canada just recently?

Though Ms. Marieton Pacheco bid farewell to her ABS-CBN family sometime in July 2009, she still reports for ABS-CBN News, Canada. Aside from that, she is now a freelance writer for The Philippine Asian News Today and Filipino-Canadian maga­zine Living Today.

Her Permanent Resident Visa application was filed on March 13, 2004. That was years before the Ministerial Instruction limiting the Federal Skilled Worker program to 38 high demand occupations. Canadian Visa Office in Manila approved her visa application on December 8, 2008 and her visa, together with her family members, were released June 3, 2009.

'How did I know about her application details?', you might ask.

Simple. Ms. Marieton Pacheco is actually one of the thousands of Canadian Immigration Consultancy clients who are now living in working in Canada. You can be one of them, too. Find out how!

Visit

Canadian Immigartion Consultancy
SM MOA Office
10am-10pm everyday

look for roland gomez :)

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Guaranteed Visas and Jobs in Canada!

if you are seeking immigration advice or trying your luck in getting a job offer from Canada and you get this kind of offer, think twice before giving them your personal information and much more giving them your hard earned money. It is probably a scam!

Like in the case of Marriot Hotel Scam, the following are typically their too-good-to-be-true offers:

Guaranteed work permits!

Free scholarships!

High-paying jobs in Canada with minimal or no experience needed!

Free air tickets and accommodation!

Guaranteed employment!

SPECIAL programs!

Earn $4,000 a month as a hotel cleaner!

Don't be a victim of a scam. Here's a fraud warning notice from Citizenship and Immigration Canada.

The things you need to know:

Only visa officers at Canadian embassies can decide whether or not to issue a visa.

Immigration representatives cannot guarantee you will be issued a visa. No representative has special connections with government officials.

All forms and guides needed for you to apply for any type of visa are available for free on this website.

The Government of Canada will never ask you to deposit money into an individual’s personal bank accounts or to transfer money through a specific private money transfer company.

Processing fees are the same at all Canadian visa offices around the world.

The Government of Canada does not use commercial e-mail addresses. All e-mail addresses of the Canadian government end with “.gc.ca”.

You can obtain accurate and reliable information at this website. If you have questions, contact Citizenship and Immigration Canada or the visa office responsible for your area.

If the offer seems too good to be true, it probably is.

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Marriot Hotel Scam

Actually this Is a long online scan from the internet but I was amazed that some people really do believe in it.

There's a reader who sent me an email asking about his job offer from Marriot Hotel. He's asking if the offer is real or just a scam.

Here's a forwarded email from "Canada Immigration Lawyer"

From: Canadaimmigrationlawyer Consultant
Subject: CANADA AIRPORT IMMIGRATION LAWYERS OTTAWA.
To: ********@yahoo.com
Date: Sunday, April 26, 2009, 10:33 PM

DEAR APPLICANT,

THIS IS TO INFORM YOU THAT YOUR MAIL HAS BEEN RECEIVED, NOW YOU SHOULD CONTACT OUR ZONAL TOURIST DEPARTMENT ON HOW YOU WILL REACH THEM WITH THE PAYMENT OF $218 U.S DOLLARS, FOR YOUR AUTHORIZATION LETTER, SO THAT WE CAN BE ABLE TO SEND YOUR AUTHORIZATION LETTER TO THE CANADIAN IMMIGRATION BUREAU OTTAWA FOR YOUR VISA ISSUANCE.

HERE IS THE MAIL ADDRESS ON HOW YOU WILL CONTACT OUR ZONAL TOURIST DEPARTMENT FOR YOUR LETTER OF AUTHORIZATION.

zonaltouristdeptcv@yahoo.ca

NOTE: YOU SHOULD CONTACT THEM WITH YOUR INTERNATIONAL PASSPORT SCAN AND YOUR DOCUMENT CODE..CA-AF01225 TO ENABLE THEM IDENTIFY YOUR ENTIRE DOCUMENTS.

BARR. DAVID COHEN.
CANADIAN IMMIGRATION LAWYERS

This is obviously similar to that of Omni Hotel Scam. But to better guide you, read about my entry, Guaranteed Visas and Jobs in Canada.

By the way, David Cohen is a real immigration lawyer and I'm sure he has nothing to do with that email.

So if you receive similar job offer from Marriot Hotel, think again before sending that money.

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Citizenship and Immigration Canada’s 2009 Annual Report

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 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.

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Where to Hunt Jobs for Canada

These are the list of sites that caters all of jobhunters in for Canada. If the status of your application is on medical stage or for visa releasing I suggest to you should start looking for a job in Canada. You will never know. I know some clients that get lucky finding jobs while they are still here in the Philippines. Other employers that desperately needs you will offer you free plane tickets and even will find you an apartment.

So here is the list where you first begin your Job Hunt:

HRDC Job Bank - Canada - lots of listings here by small companies, if you don't mind some of the pay that borders on exploitation.

Workopolis - lots of good listings, many by big companies. You can also post your resume.

Monster - features almost same as Workopolis.

Job Shark

Canada Wide Employment Finder

Canadian Career Page

Canadian Federal Government Jobs

Having Immigrant visa is a big thing in finding jobs. Thats a big advantage from other applicants who only looks for working visa. So if you are qualified apply now for an Immigrant Visa.

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Saskatchewan PNP Update

According to the Canadian Federation of Independent Business ranking of top business-friendly cities, Saskatchewan is home to the most business-friendly cities in Canada. The province is currently experiencing a business boom and its highest population growth since 1952. As the economy grows, the creation of jobs and investment opportunities are increasing.

For this reason, the province has amended its immigration strategy to welcome a greater number of qualified immigrants.

“This new process will make Saskatchewan more competitive in Canada. It will bring talented managers and entrepreneurs to the province, it will spread opportunities for investment to more communities and create jobs,” said Saskatchewan’s Minister Responsible for Immigration Rob Norris.

Under the new process, nominations for the SINP Entrepreneur category are expected to be finalized within six months from the date of application.

In addition, three new streams have been added to this category:

• The Large Scale Investor Stream, for applicants who wish to invest $10-million or more in Saskatchewan;
• The Science and Technology Stream, for applicants who have an innovative idea or plan to partner with an existing Saskatchewan science and technology body; and
• The Young Farmers Stream, for applicants under the age of 40 who have farming experience.

Norris also announced plans to add two new streams to the SINP Entrepreneur category in the future: one for entrepreneurs to partner with First Nations and Métis businesses or communities, and one that will facilitate business succession in the province.

article from: http://www.cicnews.com

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CIC Mall Of Asia Will be Open @ Nov 1 2009

Yes! you heard it right! CIC MOA office will be open this coming Nov 1, 12pm-10pm. If you want to know your options in Canada you can Visit our office remember CIC MOA offers free consultations. If you have spare time please do visit us!

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Provincial Seminar @ Pampanga Part 2 :)

We will be conducting again A seminar at Pampanga coming Nov 22, 2009. Our venue will be at century resort hotel can be found at the back of Casino Filipino. If you missed the seminar last time this would be your another chance to attend. This could be our last provincial seminar for this year. Hope you people could attend.

time: 2:00pm

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IELTS Exams Validity and Your Canadian Visa Application

IELTS exam as the guidlines of embassy said that it should be atleast not be older than one year.
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.

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How To Become a Citizen of Canada

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.



*photos from kianahayeri.wordpress.com/

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38 Occupations Looking Beyond Further

Free Education for your children
Free Health Care for the entire family
Disability Income
more than substantial Retirement Income
Unemployment Income

Are some the reasons why a lot of Filipino's long to have a Canada Visa (Canadian Permanent Residents Visa).

Even though the application process is not easy.

That even though it is a lot of hard work to start a new life in Canada and it is a lot of hard work to relocate in Canada; a lot of Single and Married individuals still apply for this Visa.

And why wouldn't they?

Education, health care, Disability, Unemployment and no real retirement income are some of the major Financial set backs that they experience or fear that they might experience which will keep them from achieving Financial Security for themselves and for their loved ones.

Last November 28, 2008, the Immigration Minister of Canada published changes in the Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) Immigration application Program.

Among the highlighted changes was a Fast and Easier way to Immigrate in Canada.

Applicants with Work experience in 38 High Demand Occupations will be processed within 6 months to a year.

Since then our Consultancy Company Canadian, Immigration Consultancy, has processed numerous applications.

This blog post aims to share with you some of the profiles of our successful applicants who received their Canada Visa's (Canadian Permanent Residents Visa) last September 2009 which are as follows:

General Practitioners and Family Physicians
University Professors
Financial Auditors and Accountants
College and Other Vocational Instructors
Specialist Physicians
Registered Nurses
Restaurant and Food Service Managers

These applicants were very surprised at the processing speed, before they knew it, they were already granted their Visa's.

The speed of an application will also depend on the applicants speed in sending in requirements when it is required in different stages of the application.

Amongst the applicants who got their Visa's last Month, the longest time it took before the Visa was given was 10 months the fastest was 7 months. On the average, it takes around 8 months.

Which means that the faster you start your application, the faster you will get the results in your application.

A lot of applicants often ask me whether or not they are eligible to apply under the Federal Skilled Worker Program, because their job titles might differ from those listed in the announced 38 qualifying occupations.

And I tell them that from our experience the Visa officer will grant an applicant the Canada Visa even if their titles are different for as long as they have the duties that matches the occupations in the 38 high demand list.

This is due to the fact that Job titles for a particular occupation can vary across different countries, different industries and even different employers, the duties performed in the occupation are more important than the job title when it comes to determining eligibility.

I would like to give you an example:

College and other Vocational Instructors— The National Occupation Classification of Canada defines College and Other Vocational Instructors as instructors who teach academic, vocational, technical and applied art subjects both in colleges and at the college level. Their everyday duties include teaching students using a systematic plan of lectures, demonstrations, discussion groups, laboratory work, shop sessions, seminars, case studies, field assignments and independent or group projects. In addition, College and other Vocational Instructors develop curricula and courses, prepare, administer and mark student tests and papers, advise students on program curricula and career decisions, and provide individualized tutorial/remedial instructions, among other duties.

Although it may seem that this occupation seems to describe a limited group of instructors at non-university post-secondary institutions, other occupations may also fit the profile.

For example, an instructor that teaches English as a second language to adults may qualify under this occupation. In addition, an instructor who teaches students how to drive commercial vehicles may also qualify. Other potential applicants that may be considered under this occupation are company trainers and community-based trainers.

It is very important for all potential immigrants to compare their job descriptions and duties to those of the 38 qualifying occupations—they might discover they qualify for the Federal Skilled Worker program even if their job titles is different from the actual Job Titles that the Citizenship and Immigration Canada used.

So if you are interested to apply, check the 38 Occupations then first thing that you have to do is review the list and read the individual duties and responsibilities, who knows you may get a Canada Visa (Canadian Permanent Residents Visa).

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Language Training Vouchers for Newcomers

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.

image from: www.tesl.ca

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Propose Changes for Temporary Foreign Workers Program Applications

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]

With this propose improvements. I hope that It could help expedite work permit visa applications.

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

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.

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Hepa-B and Your Canadian Immigration Application

It's not the first time that I was asked whether Hepatitis B will cause a problem for their Permanent Resident Visa Application. So I though of writing about it, hoping this will help those with similar situation.

First, what is Hepatitis B?

From World Health Organization (WHO)

* Hepatitis B is a viral infection that attacks the liver and can cause both acute and chronic disease.
* The virus is transmitted through contact with the blood or other body fluids of an infected person - not through casual contact.
* About 2 billion people worldwide have been infected with the virus and about 350 million live with chronic infection. An estimated 600 000 persons die each year due to the acute or chronic consequences of hepatitis B.
* About 25% of adults who become chronically infected during childhood later die from liver cancer or cirrhosis (scarring of the liver) caused by the chronic infection.
* The hepatitis B virus is 50 to 100 times more infectious than HIV.
* Hepatitis B virus is an important occupational hazard for health workers.
* Hepatitis B is preventable with a safe and effective vaccine.

From Health Canada

Hepatitis B is a liver disease caused by the hepatitis B virus. The virus is carried in blood and body fluids. It can lead to serious liver damage, life-long infection, liver cancer, liver failure and even death. Fortunately, there is a vaccine that can protect you against hepatitis B.

Now, with reference to medical inadmissibility rule, there are two concerns here. First, possible transmission to others and second, "excessive" demand in health services.

Then consider what is being done during the medical examination. The medical examination includes:

* complete physical examination for all family members;
* chest X-ray and a radiologist’s report for everyone aged 11 years and over;
* blood test for everyone aged 15 years or over;
* urinalysis for everyone aged 5 years or over;
* HIV testing for everyone aged 15 years or over, as well as for children who have received blood or blood products, or have a known HIV mother.

You and each of your family members will have to complete your own copy of the Medical Report, where you will have to write your answers to the questions on the form IMM 5419.

Question No. 8 is about Hepatitis.

When there is a history of hepatitis in those older than 15 years of age, the details from the applicant should include the date and type of hepatitis, if known.

Note: If the applicant is not excessive demand exempt, then the results of serum AST and ALT should be provided. If these are abnormal (greater than 1.5 X normal value), then a specialist’s report including hepatitis C antibodies and hepatitis B surface antigen should be provided.[Source]

Now, to answer the question whether those with Hepatitis B will cause refusal of Permanent Resident Visa application, I think it will be treated on a case to case basis. We have clients with Hepatitis but were issued visa.

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SSS and your Visa Application

Do you know that your Social Security System (SSS) Static Information 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.

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.

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Tourist, Student or Temporary Worker Visa Application to Canada

If you want to go to Canada as a Tourist, Student or a Temporary Worker,

You will have to submit an application for a Temporary Residents Visa at the Canadian Embassy.

Embassy address:

Levels 6-8, Tower 2
RCBC Plaza
6819 Ayala Avenue
Makati City 1200
PO Box 2098

Telephone : (02) 857-9000
Fax : (02) 843-1082 (02) 8579173


Hours of Operation
Monday to Thursday
8:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Friday
8:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Consular Hours
Monday to Thursday
9:00 to 11:30 a.m.
1:00 to 3:00 p.m.
Friday
9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Immigration and Visa
Open to the public
Monday to Thursday
8:00 to 11:30 a.m.

You may apply direct to the Embassy, there are three types of Temporary residents Visa.

* Single-entry visa allows one entry only to Canada within the validity of the visa

* Multiple-entry visa allows unlimited entries to Canada within the validity of the visa.

* Transit visa allows for a short stop-over (maximum 48 hours) entry to Canada en route to another country. It can be granted for a single or multiple entries, depending on the applicant’s travel requirements. Example: If your return travel is also through Canada, you should request a transit visa valid for two entries.

The validity of a visa is determined by a visa officer. Single-entry visas are normally valid for six months, and multiple-entry visas may be valid for longer periods. The validity date is the period by which you may enter Canada. The decision to admit the foreign national, however, is made by the officer at the port of entry to Canada (airport or border crossing). The officer also determines the length of stay allowed.

Note that the Embassy cannot issue visas with a validity that exceeds the passport validity. If your passport will expire soon, you may wish to renew it before you apply for your visa.

You may want to visit the Citizenship and Immigration website to find out the forms and procedures that you should take in applying.

Based on our experience in processing tourist visa's, you should meet the following factors to get a higher percentage on getting your application approved.

* the applicant’s travel and identity documents;
* the reason for travel to Canada and the applicant’s contacts there;
* the applicant’s financial means for the trip;
* the applicant’s ties to his or her country of residence, including immigration status, employment and family ties;
* whether the applicant would be likely to leave Canada at the end of the authorized stay;
* the applicant’s health condition.

Should you have more questions or need help on your tourist visa application, you may email me at rgomez@go2canada.com

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Credit Card Payment for Visa Processing Fee Is Now Accepted

Last September 8, 2009, Federal Skilled Worker program applicants sent a publication allowing applicants to pay Visa Processing fees with a credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express).

Payment Fee Form (IMM 5620)
Credit Card Payment portion of Payment Fee Form (IMM 5620)

In addition to the sets of application forms required by Centralized Intake Office (CIO), all applicants need to complete the Fee Payment Form – Application for Permanent Residence – Federal Skilled Worker (IMM 5620), regardless of the chosen method of payment.

All these efforts to make your application more convenient. With said options, applications will increase in volume, so you have to start your application right away, otherwise you will get left behind.

In this relation Canadian Immigration Consultancy, the consultancy I am associated in, also accepts online payment option using your credit card.

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Pampanga Seminar Moved

Our planned seminar last October 4, 2009 is moved to October 18, 2009. Pag-asa foretold that Peping will visit Philippines luckily it change its path. We apologize for such inconvinience. same place and same time.

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)

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Canadian Immigration Consultancy

Having problem with you Canada Visa Applications?

Visit us at:
Located along Sunset Ave Beside North Parking entrance of SM Mall of Asia
3010170 loc 8526
free assessment and evaluation just look for roland and angel
09279856617

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Age Limit

It is a misconception that the age limit for Canadian Immigration is from 18 to 49, years old.

There are instances where a person who is more than 49 may still qualify!


To explain how, let me explain once again the Six Selection Factors of Canadian Immigration application for Skilled Workers and Professionals Category.

The passmark to allow you to apply for this program is still 67pts.

Where you will get your points from will be based on your credentials.

Six Selection Criteria's

1. Points - Education
15 - Vocational 2 years
20 - College
22 - Double Degree
25 - Materal/Doctorate

2. Ability in
16 - English
or
18 - French

3. Points - Work Experience
15 - (1 year)
17 - (2 years)
19 - (3 years)
21 - (4 years)

4. Points - Age
0 - 16 or under
2 - 17
4 - 18
6 - 19
8 - 20
10 - 21 to 49
8 - 50
6 - 51
4 - 52
2 - 53
0 - 54

5. Adaptability
Spouses Education
3 - Vocational 2 years
4 - College
5 - Masteral
5 - Doctorate

5 - one year work experience
in Canada

5 - one year study in Canada

5 - First degree Relative
in Canada

6. Arranged Employment

5 - Certified Job Offer

5 - Provincial Nomination
Program Certificate

In a nutshell, a person with a college Education, 4 years work experience in an occupation that is part of the National Classification Occupation qualified list will have 67 points.

So for those people who are already 50 but still has a spouse that also has a post secondary education or relatives in Canada or a Job offer, they will still have a chance to qualify. Forget about the preconceived notion about the age limit in Canadian Immigration.

Although if you are already with in the age bracket, I suggest that you should file right away. The condition of qualifying for the program is always dependent on the existing selection criteria.

If it changes, then there goes your only chance to still apply for Canada despite of the favorably age limit for Canadian Immigration.

The catch here is apply as soon as you get enough points get it?

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Canada Announces Special Immigration measures for Ondoy(Ketsana) Victims in the Philippines

Official Statement:

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.

New sponsorship applications should have “Philippines” prominently written on the mailing envelope. Sponsors and applicants presently in Canada who have applications in process should notify the CIC Call Centre at 1-888-242-2100 (in Canada only) to identify their existing applications, if they or the family they have sponsored have been adversely affected.

Temporary residence applicants will be given priority processing by the visa office in Manila once they demonstrate that they have been significantly affected by the typhoon.

These special measures are in addition to the up to $5 million for humanitarian assistance and early recovery to respond to the needs of the populations affected by Typhoon Ketsana announced by International Cooperation Minister Beverley J. Oda earlier this week.

For further information, please visit Citizenship and Immigration Canada’s website.

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Opportunity rises on occasions we dont expect it. So here it is :)

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Canada offers to take in Filipino victims of Ondoy

Just read the news from the inquirer. Good news to all Victims's of Ondoy (ketsana) who dreams of migrating or working to Canada!

OTTAWA—Canada will fasttrack the immigration of Filipinos "directly and significantly" affected by tropical storm Ondoy (international codename: Ketsana) seeking to relocate here, Immigration Minister Jason Kenney announced Thursday.

"Effective immediately immigration officials will begin expediting applications from individuals directly and significantly affected by the typhoon," Kenney said.

The measures include "priority processing" of claims to reunite individuals with their families already living in Canada as well as temporary resident applications, he said.

Ondoy has brought devastation across Southeast Asia since killing 277 people in the Philippines last weekend.

Some 330,000 Canadians trace their roots to the Philippines, representing Canada's third largest ethnic minority, according to a 2001 census.

http://globalnation.inquirer.net/news/breakingnews/view/20091002-228032/Canada-offers-to-take-in-Filipino-victims-of-Ondoy

This is a big hope and moral uplift to the victims of Ondoy. A big opportunity right in front of you.

If you dont know how and where to start? CLICK ME FOR A FREE IMMIGRATION ASSESSMENT

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IELTS Exam and FSW Visa Application

Based on the feedback we receive from the second stage of the application of FSW visa. IELTS plays an important role on the application. We really insist on our clients to at least make good score so that their application for a Canadian Visa will not be delay.

In our comittment to provide you a good service if you are a Client of CIC, we will be providing you a free simulation IELTS exam to know your strenghts and weaknesses in the english language. With this, we will know early where to focus on your IELTS. Remember that IELTS plays a critical role on you Canada Visa Application.

If you want to know more about IELTS we have a sister company that would gladly assist you.

www.canu.com.ph

Does not know where to start you Canada Visa Dream?

Visit our Free Assessment Tab to know if you could qualify for a Canadian Immigration Visa.

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Donation Drop off Points For Ondoy Victims

Lets pause for a while on the discussion about Canada Visa Applications. If somehow you visit this site. I would like to give you this Donation Drop Off Points for Typhoon Ondoy Victims. CIC on the other hand is not affected by the typhoon. We are still in business and still processing our client's visa's. We will still push thru our Pampanga seminar this saturday.

Again this is a tragic event that happen to us. Lucky are those who take advantage of the opppurtunities presented to them. Lets hope and pray for our fellow pinoys. There are many ways to help. You can volunteer or donate.

If you want to know other opportunities visit our assessment page to know if you are qualified to apply an FSW visa to Canada.

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Six Easy Steps Quebec Work VIsa Tips

If you are a skilled worker, looking at working temporarily in Quebec.

Hers are Six easy (6-steps)explaining how you will become a Temporary worker in Quebec

1. Finding out about Québec and various aspects of temporary work
Are you interested in residing in Québec to work? Get the facts about subjects specifically related to temporary workers in Québec, and do not forget all the other aspects of life in Québec society. You will appreciate your stay all the more for it!

2. Obtaining the authorizations to work temporarily in Québec
An employer in Québec has offered you a job. Your plans to immigrate are taking shape and you would like to obtain the authorizations to reside in Québec. Take note of the steps your employer must follow and those that you have to take on your own.

3. Preparing for your stay in Québec
Soon you will be discovering new horizons. You will be leaving for Québec where you have decided to reside in order to work. In the meantime, make the best of this interval by preparing yourself. Your temporary stay in Québec will be that much easier.

4. Arriving in Québec and settling in
This section provides all the information you need to help you settle in.

5. Obtaining new authorizations for temporary work once in Québec
Your employer wants to extend your employment contract? You wish to change employer ? You must obtain new authorizations in order to continue working temporarily in Québec. Take note of the steps you need to follow.

6. Becoming a permanent resident
You are presently residing in Québec as a temporary worker and have decided that you would like to stay here permanently. Find out about the steps you have to follow to submit an immigration application as well as those involved in ensuring your successful integration into Québec.

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Alberta Provincial Nominee Program (AINP) Visa Updates

The AINP application is one the best type of application to migrate to Canada. If you are planning to apply for the AINP Family Stream please be informed that changes in the application is effective Sept. 16, 2009. If you have relatives in Alberta ask them if they want to sponsor your visa to Canada.

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.

Make sure that you are guided with this changes to avoid further delay of your application. Visa application is so dynamic. So be updated.

Start your application now!

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Ondoy Drop Off Points

Got this info from Abby's blog although posted so many time even in facebook. I wanna share this to you. With my work related in helping Filipino's find a better life in Canada I need to help Pinoy's too that felt the wrath of Ondoy. So here are the Drop of Points Incase you want to give donations:

Globe Telecom accepts relief goods at the following Globe Stores:

1. SGMA: Alabang Town Center, Festival Mall, Robinsons Malate, SM Southmall,
Mall of Asia and SM Bicutan
2. NGMA: SM Fairview, Trinoma and SM North
3. CGMA: Greenbelt 4, Park Square and SM M…akati
4. Central Luzon: Plaridel (Walter Mart, Maharlika Highway), Tarlac (Metrotown Mall on McArthur Highway), Cabanatuan (NE Pacific Mall, Maharlika Highway), SM Clark and Marquee Mall (Angeles, Pampanga)
Relief Operations Drop-Off Center has been set-up at La Salle Greenhills beginning today 9:00 AM, Sunday, September 27. Please bring donations to Gate 2 of La Salle Greenhills, along Ortigas Ave., Mandaluyong
Relief Goods can be sent to Caritas ManilaOffice at Jesus St., Pandacan Manila near Nagtahan Bridge (tel.no.5639298/5639308) or Radio Veritas at Veritas Tower West Ave. Corner EDSA (tel no. 9257931-40)
Noynoy Aquino and Mar Roxas Disaster Relief:Drop off for relief donations at Balay Expo across Farmers Marketcontact:a. Jana Vicente: +63 928 520 5499. Clare Amador: +63 928 520 5508
Ateneo Resident Students Association now accepting relief goods for Typhoon Ondoy at Cervini Hall lobby at 12nn. For details, please contact 0917 631 2423 AND 0917 703 5357

PAOLC - We are requesting for donations (Clothes, blankets, towels, canned goods, Bottled water etc) to be distributed to typhoon victims. You can drop them off at the Philippine Army Gym inside Fort Bonifacio or GHQ Gym in Camp Aguinaldo

DLSU-Manila WILL ACCEPT RELIEF GOODS TOMORROW (Sept 28) by 8:30 am. For volunteers please be there by 8am in southgate benches (gate nearest to McDonalds), let us help OPERATION: SAGIP METRO

La Salle Greenhills students have set up a donation stand inside Unimart, in front of the alcohol/liquor area. They will receive all cash and in-kind donations to be transferred to LSGH Gate 2.

7-11 in cooperation with NDCC and DSWD now turning all branches into drop off points for relief supplies

CBN Asia / Operation Blessing - Operation Blessing is starting to mobilize disaster relief efforts for typhoon Ondoy victims in Metro Manila. YOU CAN HELP by rallying finances, resources and volunteers. Call us at the following numbers: The 700 Club Counseling Center at (632) 810-7176 / 810-7717 or toll-free at 1-800-1-888-8700 Operation Blessing at (632) 812-0581 in Manila or (082) 297-3080 in Davao It is critical that you help TODAY

All Jollibee Stores Now accepting relief goods.

Petron - All stations are DSWD drop off points

All Shell Stations

ABS-CBN: Donations can be brought to Sagip Kapamilya warehouse at 13 Examiner St., West Triangle QC/ABS-CBN Center/ Road along Mother Ignacia QC/Scout Bayoran corner Tomas Morato, beside Alex III, QC.

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Ondoy and an Update to our Pampanga Seminar

As part of CIC's mission of delivering good service to pinoys. Our seminar in Pampanga will continue as plan. That is a complete Canada visa application orientation seminar to be delivered by one of our senior consultant's Mr. Apol Apuntar. All queries about Canada visa, visa application, and your qualification will be discuss there.

Well Ondoys wrath does not hamper our spirit. We will still give you the seminar as originally planned before. This is to bring you an easy application to Canada.

Century Resort Hotel
Balibago, Angeles City
At the back of Casino Filipino)
October 4, 2009, 2pm to 5pm (Sunday)
Seminar Fee: P500 (single) P700 (married)

Sign up now!

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Bayan Canada Helps Ondoy Victims

BAYAN Canada and all its allied organizations appeals to the Filipino-Canadian community to join “Bayanihan para sa Sambayanan” (Peoples Cooperation for People) relief efforts for tropical storm “Ondoy” victims, which battered Metro Manila and nearby provinces on September 26 and left over 140 people dead and thousands of submerged houses and damages properties.

Member organizations of BAYAN Canada have begun with its BALSA or “Bayanihan para sa Sambayanan” efforts by collecting financial support for the relief efforts in the Philippines. BALSA is a BAYAN-initiated network put up more than 10 years ago to concentrate on relief for victims of natural and man-made disasters in the Philippines.

Filipino-Canadian elected officials from Winnipeg to Vancouver have already solicited the support of their provincial governments and are now preparing to mobilize broader Canadian support for the victims of Ondoy. Meanwhile, Filipino-Canadian church people have also called on their communities to donate what they can.

Migrante International on the other hand, calls for the “bayanihan” (cooperation and unity) spirit of all Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). Administered by the Migrante Sectoral Partylist (MSP), operation “Sagip-Migrante” (migrant rescue) is helping to facilitate the smooth remittance of the relief funds and goods to the right people. OFWs are called modern-day heroes for the billions of dollars they remit to their homeland in support of their families. The ability of OFW’s to collect donations for the victims of Typhoon Ondoy will go a long way in combating the disease, hunger and displacement due to the aftermath of the floods.

Unlike the Philippine government’s slow response to the disaster, Filipinos in Canada are getting organized while material support for the flood victims have begun to flow as fast as the flood waters rose.

Receding flood waters expose more than the dead

Ondoy (international name: Ketsana) brought rains of 341 millimetres (mm) in the first six hours that it struck Metropolitan Manila on Saturday, breaking the highest 24-hour rainfall of 334 mm in Metropolitan Manila in June 1967, according to the Philippines’ weather forecasting bureau. In comparison, Hurricane Katina dumped 250 mm or ran on New Orleans in 2007.

North American reports say that at least 140 persons were killed and nearly 450,000 families were displaced by massive flooding, but these numbers are rising while the storm flood itself begins to recede. The receding waters are also exposing the inadequacy of the Philippine government in its capacity to respond to these natural and man-made disasters.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines has only thirteen rubber boats to respond to the thousands of cries for help from people who were stuck on rooftops for over twelve hours under the cold and rain, without food. The Philippine government doesn’t even have radar for the weather bureau to accurately indicate the amount of rainfall of the said typhoon.

The tens of thousands of US dollars spent on Arroyo’s dinner forays with her entourage in Washington DC and New York earlier this summer could have been more wisely spent on much needed rescue equipment.

Where to give help

You can connect your local church effort with the churches in the Philippines, particularly through the National Council of Churches of the Philippines (http://www.nccphilippines.org/) who have been consistent in ensuring that help gets to those who need it the most.

The Philippine Solidarity Network in Canada has been a long-time partner of the NCCP and other Philippine organizations, especially in its work around Human Rights in the Philippines. The PSNC national coordinator, Malcolm Guy, can be reached in Montreal at (514) 574-9906 or email him at capcpc@web.ca.

People can get in touch with the following BAYAN Canada and Migrante organizations through the following contacts:

BAYAN Canada at bayan.canada.noc@gmail.com

Migarante International Canadian chapter at migrantecanada@gmail.com

Migrante Sectoral Party coordinator in Canada, Jonathan Canchela at (647) 833-1023 or email at migrantepartylist.toronto@gmail.com

BAYAN Canada contacts in major Canadian cities:

Montreal – Joey Calugay, cell (514) 947-3662

Ottawa – Yasmeen Maryam, cell (613) 558-1625

Toronto – Diwa Marcelino, cell (416) 809-3492

Winnipeg – Jomay Amora-Mercado, cell (204) 509-2491

Vancouver – Beth Dollaga, (604) 320-0285

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Alternative Application Process

I want to live and work in Canada but I am not eligible under the Federal Skilled Worker Class application, are there other options for me?

That is a common question I receive from my readers who send their resume for assessment. For easy reference, I decided to post here my reply to these kind of questions.

Depending on your circumstances and how much you are willing to help yourself, there are ways more than one that you may do to get a Permanent Resident Visa and or legally work in Canada.

1. Contact your friends or relatives who are now in Canada. Ask them to help you find a job offer by referring you to their respective employers and other contacts. They are in the best position to help you. Or if applicable, they may help you get a PR Visa through Provincial Nominee Program.

2. Maximize the use of internet and email. Look for job vacancies in Canada that match your profile. Send your resume with a good cover letter. There are many job posting sites where you can find job vacancies in Canada. But to avoid scammers like that in the case of OMNI Hotel Scam, I suggest you look for job vacancies from Canada Job Bank, which is a government owned website. You may also want to check these Canada Jobs Online Portals that I highly recommend.

3. Once you find an employer who is willing to hire you, that employer needs to apply for Labor Market Opinion (LMO) from Human Resource Social Development Canada. Your employer will then send you the LMO. There is also a chance that an employer may be willing to sponsor you through Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) or process an Arranged Employment Opinion (AEO) for you. (LMO is for workp permit application. AEO supports a permanent resident visa application)

4. If you already have the LMO/AEO, you may now file your application for Temporary Resident Visa - Work Permit or Permanent Resident Visa at the the Visa Office near you. To check which Visa Office may handle your application, click here

Filipino workers who already have a Labor Market Opinion (LMO) and need assistance on filing an application for Temporary Resident Visa - Work Permit, may email me at rgomez@go2canada.com. We will guide you throughout the process and will help you get a higher chance of approval.


If you want to go to Canada as a Tourist, Student or a Temporary Worker,

You will have to submit an application for a Temporary Residents Visa at the Canadian Embassy.

Embassy address:

Levels 6-8, Tower 2
RCBC Plaza
6819 Ayala Avenue
Makati City 1200
PO Box 2098

Telephone : (02) 857-9000
Fax : (02) 843-1082 (02) 8579173


Hours of Operation
Monday to Thursday
8:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Friday
8:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Consular Hours
Monday to Thursday
9:00 to 11:30 a.m.
1:00 to 3:00 p.m.
Friday
9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Immigration and Visa
Open to the public
Monday to Thursday
8:00 to 11:30 a.m.

You may apply direct to the Embassy, there are three types of Temporary residents Visa.

* Single-entry visa allows one entry only to Canada within the validity of the visa

* Multiple-entry visa allows unlimited entries to Canada within the validity of the visa.

* Transit visa allows for a short stop-over (maximum 48 hours) entry to Canada en route to another country. It can be granted for a single or multiple entries, depending on the applicant’s travel requirements. Example: If your return travel is also through Canada, you should request a transit visa valid for two entries.

The validity of a visa is determined by a visa officer. Single-entry visas are normally valid for six months, and multiple-entry visas may be valid for longer periods. The validity date is the period by which you may enter Canada. The decision to admit the foreign national, however, is made by the officer at the port of entry to Canada (airport or border crossing). The officer also determines the length of stay allowed.

Note that the Embassy cannot issue visas with a validity that exceeds the passport validity. If your passport will expire soon, you may wish to renew it before you apply for your visa.

You may want to visit the Citizenship and Immigration website to find out the forms and procedures that you should take in applying.

Based on our experience in processing tourist visa's, you should meet the following factors to get a higher percentage on getting your application approved.

* the applicant’s travel and identity documents;
* the reason for travel to Canada and the applicant’s contacts there;
* the applicant’s financial means for the trip;
* the applicant’s ties to his or her country of residence, including immigration status, employment and family ties;
* whether the applicant would be likely to leave Canada at the end of the authorized stay;
* the applicant’s health condition.

Should you have more questions or need help on your tourist visa application, you may email me at rgomez@go2canada.com

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ANGELES CITY SEMINAR

ANGELES CITY PAMPANGA SEMINAR
SPEAKER: Mr. Apol Apuntar Senior Consultant CIC

Century Resort Hotel
Balibago, Angeles City
At the back of Casino Filipino)
October 4, 2009, 2pm to 5pm (Sunday)
Seminar Fee: P500 (single) P700 (married)

For Your Online Reservation: CLICK ME

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What to Do When the Right Time Comes

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!

The testimony is from Canadian Dream a blog from one of our senior consultants. I hope that this testimony could help you in building your own dream of living in Canada.

Dont know where to start? CLICK ME

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SEMINAR

Finally a confirmed seminar in Pampanga.

San Fernando Pampangga
Venue: TBA (to be announced)
Seminar Fee 500/700 single/married
September 26, 2009
1pm-5pm


If you want to attend please do make the online registration

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Provincial Seminar Schedule (PAMPANGA)

With the number of Clients ranging from the North Luzon. We are planning to Provide a Canadian Immigration Information Seminar in Pampanga. We are still looking for a Venue but we already confirmed a group of people that will attend. Actually we used to regularly hold a seminar in Subic but in the middle of the year we decided not to push thru. Our original plan is that the seminar will be held at San Fernando Pampangga. I hope this could push thru. I am Providing you the Online Reservation Form. If you want to attend please do answer the few questions on this form. We will be finalizing this next week. Our target date is September 26, 2009. This could be a morning ang afternoon affair. I hope we could find a good venue.



to pre-qualify; CLICK ME: Free Online Assessment

if you have questions and suggestion dont hesitate to contact me.

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