Career Advice, Uni Advice And Everything And Anything In Between! :)

[zerohertz]

Hello Members,

I don't know id this is the right place to post this. But here goes. Mods, please feel free to redirect or move this post to the correct section.

INTENT: I plan to come and settle in Canda from India with my wife.

BACKGROUND: I am BTech Mechanical Engineer (DGPA:8.5/10) (2010), with almost six years of experience and a year of independent consulting on application engineering. Also, I have ample experience in B2B marketing experience. But I intend to change careers as I feel I have had enough of my career.

IELTS : Academic qualified in May 2016 with an average score of 8. (Min:7.5 Max:9) (I applied to Uni's in UK, and got selected in all of them, but I dont want to go there, since the stay back is just 4 months)

Question 1: [PERMIT] Suppose I do masters from Uni Windsor (MEng-16months), (I have heard getting jobs is difficult, will come to that later). Then I may have to wait for a job for at least six months. So how long will my work permit be? Someone says its 16months from degree; others are saying 3 years from degree? Which is correct?

Question 2: [PR] Someone will ask why I don't apply for PR? Here is why I don't want to, I am qualifying for Technical Sales Specialist as NOC. I don't want that career; I want to get a job into core mechanical side. Hence my desire to study and change tracks. Am I headed in the right direction?

Questions 3: [Uni] Anybody studying in Uni Windsor reading this? If so, the university sucks I know. Part time jobs are scarce, CoOp is very limited and very few get in, the education is mediocre, and they are a money grabbing institute. So how are you guys doing there? Is it so difficult it's not worth it to invest 40K CAD in it? Are you guys learning anything there or is the whole experience like any of the mushroom colleges in India? Are you paying just for a valueless degree?

Question 4:[DRIVING] I am going to opt for P/T jobs that require driving. (It's something I can do easily, yes I know about the SNOW). I hold a local license from WB-India, And I am in Delhi, how do I make myself qualify for driving in Canada, esp during my study time?

Question 5: [COLD] How are you guys managing the cold? I mean coming from one of the hottest countries on the planet, the sub-zero weather must be very hard on you?

Question 6: [IMMIGRATION] After masters, getting Canadian experience, how soon can I get a PR? Say I land there to study in 2017, in which year can I get the PR (including the time of 6-8months that I wait for a job)? Any estimates? And how long after that can I get a Canadian Passport?

Question 7: [&*^&*] If I do land up to study there, do I go about the CEC route or the FSW route?

Question 8: [&(*^(*] If I don't land up to study there, then what's my route to go?

I am open for any suggestion, comment, curses, anything cause I am reeling from this uncertainty and the stress is killing me. Brothers and sisters here, please do take the time to answer the questions.

If i did come across as a cynic, I apologize.

 

[xpressentry]

1. There is no guarantee you will / will not get a job. Your success in getting a job will depend on you.

2. Once you are a PR, you can work in any sector you want without any restrictions.

3. If you really want to study, studying with a PR means reduced fees and you can work anywhere you want anytime you want without restrictions. You end up paying a huge amount in fees and medical insurance on a student visa and may not even be able to work full time.

4. Canada doesn't have a reciprocal agreement with India where you can exchange your Indian license for a Canadian one. You can use an international driving permit for 3 months. After that you have to take lessons and tests. Passing the road test won't be easy and you would need to unlearn all your bad driving habits and adopt safer driving strategies. Driving lessons are expensive. I am an Indian and have an Indian driving lessons but now I have a British license that I plan to exchange for a Canadian one once I get to Canada. That way I don't need to do any tests other than an eye test.

5. Invest is good winterwear and wear layers.

6. Use your PGWP to get a relevant job to get 1 year Canadian experience. If you already have overseas experience, you can use that for PR as FSW.

7. If you get Canadian experience, it will be CEC else FSW.

8. PR via EE under FSW. Cheapest and fastest option.

 

[lady0421]

Base on my own experience, here is what I know:

Question 1: If your duration of studies is less than 2 years, technically you are not qualified to be issued a 3-year work permit. However, I have heard other people were able to do so. Perhaps it depends on the immigration officer?

Question 2: Applying for PR does not restrict your choice of occupation. The process of applying for PR requires you to tell IRCC about your previous jobs (using NOC to identify the job category), and which job category did you worked in post-graduation.

Question 3: Did not study in Uni Windsor. I work at a University in BC and coop at my university is pretty good, admission requirement is GPA based and work is thoroughly vetted so that it is directly related to the degree. Industry experience and networking are highly desirable imo. My own degree (Master in C.Psyc) provided me with a good-enough education to go on and restart my career in a brand new country. Aside from the learning material, it is the professional network that I valued most during my 3-year of studies in Canada. And of course, professional registration is also useful.

Question 4: Cannot comment, I came from a country that enabled me to just get a full driving license in Canada.

Question 5: I'm in Vancouver BC but I still struggle with the cold (originally from Australia).

Question 6: After my Master degree, I applied for a Post-Graduate Work Permit, and then I worked one year full-time and become eligible to apply for PR.

Question 7: My guess is EE - FSW? That's what I'm doing

Question 8: Stay in India? Travel the world? Feel free to visit Australia!

I'm sure you'll get many more responses from the friendly members of the forum. Do your research, and make sure whatever decision you choose, it is one that is right for you!

 

[zerohertz]

Hello Express Entry,

Thanks for replying.

1. I know I don't have a guarantee, but I am struggling hard to make myself as employable as possible. But I want to know, how long is the PGWP for a 16month MEng course. I am getting conflicting reports. How to ascertain if its 16months or 3years. Course duration is 16months.

2. Another problem I have with PR is that I don't have the experience sheet for my first 4 years of job. I left in a hurry, and they aren't issuing one now. Never needed those dox before. I can arrange the job offer letter, the promotion offers letters, and the next job offer letter, but I can't manage the final relieving letter. Also, I don't know how to show my independent consulting experience. It was self-employed and mostly in cash. (Yes, I know I have been stupid for far too long). So do you still think I can make my case with PR? I can shift jobs, that's good to hear.

3. Yes, you are perfectly right. I am still contemplating that move.

4. I think myself as the next Jacques Villeneuve if you know what I mean. I drive good, so the test and all I can manage. So I need to apply for an international driving license before I come. Also, I found a thread in this forum for driving licenses, it is very detailed. I will refer it.

5. Trust me; I am so going to. I am thinking 10 layers, good enough? Need to add more?

6. No, I don't have overseas exposure. I am going to try my level best to get that 1 year of experience. Assuming I do, How soon can I get the PR? Any estimates? And how long after that can I get a Canadian Passport?

7. If don't get a job after graduation, I can file FSW while in PGWP looking for a job? Can it be done?

8. PR Visa EE? What's EE? Please clarify!

I do have a funny bone, so if anybody doesn't like the subtle humor, please ignore.

 

[zerohertz]

Base on my own experience, here is what I know:

Question 1: If your duration of studies is less than 2 years, technically you are not qualified to be issued a 3-year work permit. However, I have heard other people were able to do so. Perhaps it depends on the immigration officer?

So it will be 16 months then for me ? When does the immigration officer come into play ? During student visa time, or after grad PGWP application. I don't know please guide.

Question 2: Applying for PR does not restrict your choice of occupation. The process of applying for PR requires you to tell IRCC about your previous jobs (using NOC to identify the job category), and which job category did you worked in post-graduation.

Well, I qualify for both NOC Mech Eng. and NOC Tech Sales Specialist. But the profile is more inclined to the later. Thats why I am thinking about it.

Question 3: Did not study in Uni Windsor. I work at a University in BC and coop at my university is pretty good, admission requirement is GPA based and work is thoroughly vetted so that it is directly related to the degree. Industry experience and networking are highly desirable imo. My own degree (Master in C.Psyc) provided me with a good-enough education to go on and restart my career in a brand new country. Aside from the learning material, it is the professional network that I valued most during my 3-year of studies in Canada. And of course, professional registration is also useful.

I so wanted to get in UBC, but the charges are so high, that I am left with only the substandard uni's. You see I will be loaning my tuition fees. (Noose around my neck)

Question 4: Cannot comment, I came from a country that enabled me to just get a full driving license in Canada.

Good for you. I won't have it so easy.

Question 5: I'm in Vancouver BC but I still struggle with the cold (originally from Australia).

Great country, Australia. Wanted to move there as well. Why'd you leave and come to Canada ?

Question 6: After my Master degree, I applied for a Post-Graduate Work Permit, and then I worked one year full-time and become eligible to apply for PR.

Right after a year, you were eligible. Thats great. Post grad + 1 year exp = Can apply for PR. How long are you into the process of getting the PR ? From the date you applied i mean.

Question 7: My guess is EE - FSW? That's what I'm doing

What is EE -FSW ? FSW I know. But EE ?

Question 8: Stay in India? Travel the world? Feel free to visit Australia!

If i don't manage to come, I am so moving to Australia. I find the ascent awesome.

I'm sure you'll get many more responses from the friendly members of the forum. Do your research, and make sure whatever decision you choose, it is one that is right for you!

 

[zerohertz]

Hello People,

Do offer your inputs on the mentioned questions.

 

[zerohertz]

(bump)

 

[xpressentry]

Hello Express Entry,

Thanks for replying.

1. I know I don't have a guarantee, but I am struggling hard to make myself as employable as possible. But I want to know, how long is the PGWP for a 16month MEng course. I am getting conflicting reports. How to ascertain if its 16months or 3years. Course duration is 16months.

depends on the length of your course

2. Another problem I have with PR is that I don't have the experience sheet for my first 4 years of job. I left in a hurry, and they aren't issuing one now. Never needed those dox before. I can arrange the job offer letter, the promotion offers letters, and the next job offer letter, but I can't manage the final relieving letter. Also, I don't know how to show my independent consulting experience. It was self-employed and mostly in cash. (Yes, I know I have been stupid for far too long). So do you still think I can make my case with PR? I can shift jobs, that's good to hear.

reconnect with your employer and ask for the letter. I left a company on bad terms but I swallowed my ego and pleaded with them. They did make me run around but it was a small price to pay to get the letters. With regards to your self employment, you can raise invoices to your clients and then declare the amount to the Indian income tax, pay whatever you owe in back taxes and you can get that proof. if you cant arrange for either, you would have to start all over.

3. Yes, you are perfectly right. I am still contemplating that move.
as of now, students are able to get PR. Right now everyone is flocking to Canada. It can continue or it can be a phase. Nobody can predict that. You have to hope for the best and prepare for the worst. you havent mentioned your age. you will only get older and lose points for age. make the most of Justin Trudeau's liberal immigration policy. you never know who will come next. Student route is one option but at that cost???

4. I think myself as the next Jacques Villeneuve if you know what I mean. I drive good, so the test and all I can manage. So I need to apply for an international driving license before I come. Also, I found a thread in this forum for driving licenses, it is very detailed. I will refer it.
dont underestimate getting a license. I started driving in India at the age of 18 legally and before that in smaller roads. I passed my UK driving test on the 3rd attempt. The first time I failed because I did not look at the rear view mirrors every 6 seconds. The second time I failed cos i took the incorrect lane at the roundabout. Fortunately Canada doesnt have roundabouts so you dont have to worry about that.

5. Trust me; I am so going to. I am thinking 10 layers, good enough? Need to add more? you would adapt to the cold a lot easier than you expect

6. No, I don't have overseas exposure. I am going to try my level best to get that 1 year of experience. Assuming I do, How soon can I get the PR? Any estimates? And how long after that can I get a Canadian Passport?
if you go for EE, processing time is 6 months. you cant use any of your overseas experience as you cant prove it. so you would have to qualify for CEC. What would happen if you didnt get a job in the NOC 0, A or B? What would happen if you did not get PGWP to use to get your Canadian experience. you have to live in Canada for 1460 days as a PR to get Canadian citizenship. Also, you have to make sure you dont commit any crime during your stay

7. If don't get a job after graduation, I can file FSW while in PGWP looking for a job? Can it be done?
you mentioned that you cant prove your experience. if you cant prove it, you cant qualify for FSW.

8. PR Visa EE? What's EE? Please clarify!
PR via EE is permanent residence via Express Entry

I do have a funny bone, so if anybody doesn't like the subtle humor, please ignore.

 

[zerohertz]

1. So, if the course is 16months, then PGWP is 16months? After my course completes do I need to apply separately for PGWP, or is it a part of the Student VISA?

2. That is some solid advice. I am doing it right now. Hope for the best. Suppose I don't get relieving letter or experience. Will the offer and promotion letters help?

3. Yes, you are right. It is mighty risky. But if i dont get the the exp dox, then FSW is out. This is the only way I have to get into Canada.

4. I went and looked, I do have a rear view mirror. Never knew I had it. JK!! So it is going to be very difficult learning to drive the Canadian way. Can that be done while on student permit ? Any idea of the charges?

5. I will take your word on this one

6. Yikes! That is some true but scary advice.


Bottom line, I might not qualify for FSW with the dox. And the CeC way is risky as you mentioned, how else can I go about coming to Canada?

 

[xpressentry]

1. So, if the course is 16months, then PGWP is 16months? After my course completes do I need to apply separately for PGWP, or is it a part of the Student VISA?

you will get a student permit first and then after you graduate, you apply for PGWP. you wont get it if you dont complete the course.

2. That is some solid advice. I am doing it right now. Hope for the best. Suppose I don't get relieving letter or experience. Will the offer and promotion letters help?
you need one letter that states your job title, duties, dates you worked, remuneration and benefits.

3. Yes, you are right. It is mighty risky. But if i dont get the the exp dox, then FSW is out. This is the only way I have to get into Canada.

4. I went and looked, I do have a rear view mirror. Never knew I had it. JK!! So it is going to be very difficult learning to drive the Canadian way. Can that be done while on student permit ? Any idea of the charges?
you have to unlearn your bad habits first and then learn the Canadian way to drive. After driving all my adult life and failing the first 2 attempts, I think I must have taken about 10-15 hours of lessons. also, dont forget that you have been accustomed to the left hand drive and will be switching to right hand drive in Canada. set aside around $30 - 40 per hour on driving lessons as the minimum. if you buy your own car, your premium will be very high due to not having Canadian driving experience. you will have to rent the car along with the instructor. if you fail the road test, you have to pay the fee again to retake the test. some provinces have a compulsory gap between each attempt

5. I will take your word on this one

6. Yikes! That is some true but scary advice.


Bottom line, I might not qualify for FSW with the dox. And the CeC way is risky as you mentioned, how else can I go about coming to Canada?
beg and plead for letters to qualify as FSW

 

[zerohertz]

9. [FSW] I have 3 job changes. And 3 and 11 months of the independent shit that I was doing. So I need,

Company A : One single document stating job title, duties, Dates of joining and leaving, work hours/week, remuneration, paystubs.
Company B : One single document stating job title, duties, Dates of joining and leaving, work hours/week, remuneration, paystubs.
Company C : One single document stating job title, duties, Dates of joining and leaving, work hours/week, remuneration, paystubs.
Independant : 14 months worth of just invoices. Print outs ?

Thats all I need for the expereince part in FSW ?

10. I looked up CeC threads, majority of people are complaining of not getting LMIAs and low score and now ITAs.

So point blank, are CeC applicants (Masters + PGWP 1-2 years canadian exp) not getting in ? Is that a bad and lengthy way to go, even if James T. or his succesors allow it ?
The greivance threads are just too many in numbers.

 

[xpressentry]

9. [FSW] I have 3 job changes. And 3 and 11 months of the independent *censored word* that I was doing. So I need,

Company A : One single document stating job title, duties, Dates of joining and leaving, work hours/week, remuneration, paystubs.
Company B : One single document stating job title, duties, Dates of joining and leaving, work hours/week, remuneration, paystubs.
Company C : One single document stating job title, duties, Dates of joining and leaving, work hours/week, remuneration, paystubs.
Independant : 14 months worth of just invoices. Print outs ? invoices and reference letters from the clients stating the above points

Thats all I need for the expereince part in FSW ?

10. I looked up CeC threads, majority of people are complaining of not getting LMIAs and low score and now ITAs.

So point blank, are CeC applicants (Masters + PGWP 1-2 years canadian exp) not getting in ? Is that a bad and lengthy way to go, even if James T. or his succesors allow it ?
The greivance threads are just too many in numbers.

It's Justin T. My wife has a massive crush on him.

There are several reasons why people have a low score - low language scores, lesser education, less work experience, they are old. In my case, my wife and i have masters degrees, CLB 9 in all bands, 30 years and over 3 years of overseas experience. no canadian education or work experience. i gave IELTS 5 times to get the CLB 9. my score went up from 412 to 472. i could have waited in the pool hoping for the score to drop to 412 with my CLB 8 but i didnt want to depend on that or break up head on getting LMIA or PNP. LMIA and PNP is possible but it is difficult to get and takes time. now i hope the odds are in my favour and i get an ITA in the next draw.

 

[zerohertz]

9. There goes 14 months of sweet experience out of the window. I was a consultant, I went to large firms saw opportunities and notified smaller vendors, very small. They operate out of their rooms, the machines are kept in the hallway. I was paid good commissions, sweet tax-free income in cash.

Cant show invoices, then I need ITR for it. But nevermind. Wont claim points, but just indicate in the file. Can that be done ? Otherwise they will frown and think I was unemployed.

Wait till my wife finds out about Justin T. She doesn't like politicians, maybe she will make an exception.

You are struggling and hoping to get lucky at FSW1 that too in Software with such an impressive profile. Tons of PGWPs are struggling and cussing here about CeC not prioritizing them and EE screwing them over, from way back in 2015. So What the heck am I supposed to do?

I am in a way worse position than I started. Terribly confused.

Ignorance is bliss, knowledge sucks.

 

[xpressentry]

9. There goes 14 months of sweet experience out of the window. I was a consultant, I went to large firms saw opportunities and notified smaller vendors, very small. They operate out of their rooms, the machines are kept in the hallway. I was paid good commissions, sweet tax-free income in cash.

Cant show invoices, then I need ITR for it. But nevermind. Wont claim points, but just indicate in the file. Can that be done ? Otherwise they will frown and think I was unemployed.

Wait till my wife finds out about Justin T. She doesn't like politicians, maybe she will make an exception.

You are struggling and hoping to get lucky at FSW1 that too in Software with such an impressive profile. Tons of PGWPs are struggling and cussing here about CeC not prioritizing them and EE screwing them over, from way back in 2015. So What the heck am I supposed to do?

I am in a way worse position than I started. Terribly confused.

Ignorance is bliss, knowledge sucks.

im not in software. can your wife be the main applicant and show her experience? in that way you dont need to declare your under the table job with undeclared income that you can no longer hide after demonetisation. prior to 2015, it was paper based applications and they were much slower than express entry.

 

[zerohertz]

No, she wont be able to. She is a physician, and we all know, how Canada treats non-Candian physicians. So that's a no go.


So what do you suggest?


Sorry, I was a bit presumptuous, in thinking you are a software guy. What profession are you into, if you don't mind me asking.