continued... A MASTER THREAD of some of my posts here >>>

[qorax]

Re: A MASTER THREAD of some of my posts here >>>

hi

1- what is B&C DECS

2- My SEC CRIM status is 1. what is this????

3- on 21 oct. 2010...my file was completed, on 23 nov. 2010 my file was sent to Z Q, WHAT IS THIS????

4- ON 23 NOV. MY FILE WAS READY FOR PHEP...........WHAT is this.......

5- BF file to: BZR in 01-12-2010..................what is this

when would i be sent PPR?

@TDH

Background Decision (BDEC)
Performed to assess our full b/ground & security checks. Usually returns a code once the file is complete - aka visa stamped.
1 -passed
2 -omitted (all under 18)
3 -incomplete
4 -failed

Criminality Decision (CDEC)
Done in cases where there is a known/found Crim. issue. Usually returns a code after the visas r stamped. Dangerous situation. Recorded when the Visa is "Not likely" to be stamped. Usually remains "empty" till donkey's years.
1 -passed
2 -omitted
3 -pending
4 -refused

SECCRIM
Performed as a basic security check. Mainly based on the PCCs that we sent. This could return a code in the early stages itself - as the PCCs r submitted. Formarly SDEC (nowadays usually not used, or left blank).
1 -passed
2 -omitted
3 -pending
4 -refused

ZQ : Probably a staff at the CHC.

PHEP : Congrats! that's your PPR (Photos/Height/Eye color/Passport).

BF'D 01-12-2010 : Was a review date.

Qorax

 

[qorax]

Re: A MASTER THREAD of some of my posts here >>>

I am reaching toronto on 21st Dec and all my relatives are busy for their Holidays,
Where can we go to enjoy the holidays between 24 th -28th.
Any suggestion .

Toronto Getaways
During Winter, by Car...

Hi,
There r plenty of locations, in & around Toronto, to drive-away with family & friends. During winters? - Yes, possible too. But, it's for those who have a penchant for driving - often under harsh conditions. I'm one of them. I pen herewith some of the places I've visited & plan to revisit few of them during this winter-break. And yes - these r the ones which r winter-friendly!:

Niagara-on-the-Lake
This small town is the perfect distance from one of the icons of the natural world - Niagara Falls (which is also, incidentally, the international capital for honeymooners!). While Niagara Falls is always bustling with people, Niagara-on-the-Lake is cozy enough for u to privately enjoy the gorgeous scenery along the Niagara River & “smell the cork” in wine country before heading to the falls as the sun goes down. A trip very much desirable for u & your wife!!!
Drive time: 1hr 45mins

Collingwood (Blue Mountain, Wasaga Beach)
Located on Georgian Bay, Collingwood underwent a major restoration in the late 90s. Today it is popular year-round, with skiing in the winter and hiking, biking, golfing, and boating in the summer. Lovers of the outdoors will especially enjoy the Collingwood area. Things to Do: Skiing, Scenic Caves, Nature Adventures - mind blowing!
Distance/Drive time: 145 km (2hrs. drive approx)

Blue Mountain Resort, Collingwood
“The Blue” is for those who are not made for sitting indoors by the fireplace sipping hot chocolate, or coffee (medium, double-double!). If u like to get right onto the slopes, this resort has a mountain full of them & it caters to all levels of expertise. Not to worry - if u have to stand at the top of the beginners' hill looking down for half an hour... once u make it down that hill, u can relax by the fireplace or in an outdoor Jacuzzi!
Drive time: 2hrs.

Wasaga Beach, Collingwood
It's billed as the world's longest freshwater beach & that's not surprising. The Great Lakes are the largest bodies of freshwater in the world - & there can't be too many larger freshwater beaches elsewhere. Wasaga beach is over 11Kms long (akin to the "7 Mile Beach" in Grand Cayman), so long it's divided into sections A to F; - each section has its own parking & concessions - they need them. Once school holidays begin - the beach is wall-to-wall ppl!!!, particularly the young & restless! If excitement & energy r what you like, this "frozen water-body" is the place to visit, now.
Drive time: 1.5-2hrs.

Quebec City
Wine, cheese & ooh la la!! Quebec City, in the dying rays of the sun, has to be one of the most romantic cities, right up there with Prague and Vienna. Picture this - After a beautiful meal on Rue St-Jean, you walk down Boulevard Champlain (the boardwalk), which is right next to the Saint Lawrence River. In the fading light, you can see the silhouettes of Chateau Frontenac and Notre Dame Basilica, and all this comes complete with a soundtrack provided by a cute old couple sitting on a bench, the man with a guitar and the woman with her soft voice carrying in the wind!!! If u can - pls do make this trip...
Drive time: 8hrs.

Algonquin Park
This is a famed location in Ontario to see/enjoy sunrise & sunsets. Camping & canoeing r the best way to see Algonquin Park (over 2000Kms of canoe routes!), the lakes provide open air & sunshine - unlike from land where close-trees mar the view. And u need some perspective to appreciate the beauty of this landscape, which u can only do from the open spaces provided by the water. A weekend trip, overnight stay, preferably camping, is recommended. There r plenty of motels to book in adv too.
Drive time: 2-3hrs. (280Kms)

Point Pelee
Point Pelee is Canada's most southerly spot on the mainland, lying at 42 degrees & at par to Rome & Barcelona. It's also a renowned conservation area, vital to the migrations of birds and butterflies. The solitude & serenity u find while spending a day, on the trail-deck, is beyond compare. It feels being just nowhere, while wondering what lies ahead... just the horizon, & u r surrounded by water & marshland all around! Uhh, I'm going there once again, for sure!
Drive time: 2hrs.

Sauble Beach
The Lake Huron shoreline of Sauble Beach is where u'll find 11+kms of the softest (white) sand & most pristine waters in Canada (probably the world over). Sounds like paradise? While the beach is the main attraction for many visitors, there r plenty of activities as well as a vibrant shopping scenario here. As evening falls, Sauble Beach offers perfect views of the world's most spectacular sunsets over Lake Huron. Star Gazing in Sauble Beach is an astronomer's dream come true. The lack of urban lighting allow for amazing views of the heavens!
The beautiful sand dunes of Sauble Beach are part of an ecosystem that has evolved over 1000's of years. The dunes provide natural shore protection, and are home to many rare and unique plants & grasses. No wonder it's written all over, "Please respect our beach & use the boardwalks to protect the dunes & plant life".
Drive time: 3hrs. (170Kms approx)(ohh, what a drive!!!)

Talisman Ski Resort
Near Kimberley, in the Beaver Valley, a UNESCO Heritage site - The Talisman offers excellent short-slopes for skiing, snowboarding & tubing. Dogsledding is also available from the resort. There are a good mix of beginner, intermediate & expert runs -- something for all the family. The best part being - it's a kids paradise, yeah, in the winters!
Drive time: 2hrs.

Hidden Valley Highlands, Muskoka
In Muskoka region, near Huntsville (the G-20 meeting took place here), is where you'll find "Hidden Valley Highlands Ski Resort", a smaller retreat with 12 runs and one Terrain Park. There are 3 chair lifts and 1 tow at 'Beginners Hill'. Basically, again a small Ski Resort, which is perfect for the family outing. As well as Hidden Valley, Deerhurst Resort is also nearby. And both resorts provide a range of amenities & events, such as snowmobiling, tobogganing, skating, spas, golfing, hiking etc. A place to visit enmasse - with family & friends AND a bunch of kids!!!
Drive time: 3hrs.

Mont Tremblant, Montreal, Quebec
Though not in the scope of this post, Mont Tremblant (6-7hrs.) is the mother of all destinations, which is a must visit by any & everyone coming to Canada. Definitively called, "the Switzerland of Canada" - it's a perfect & heavenly abode... demanding a weeklong trip along the Ottawa-Gatineu-Montreal-Quebec City corridor. Posting anything here might not justify the "awe-factor" of this beauty, so here's the link Fellas...
http://www.tremblant.ca/index-e.htm

There r many more sights (& sounds too!) - within the vicinity of the GTA, however I restricted myself for not being overboard. There's an older post, of the like, in my Master Thread too - a bit in detail - for many destinations of Canada (not just the GTA).

Happy Holidays at9459!

Qorax

________________________________________________________________________
Ppl (some) often question/wonder here, "why Qorax writes such long posts?"
Answer: Just my inherent desire to make your transition easier, softer & adventurous.
And to let u know what (beauty) lies ahead - how this PR process enriches us & our families,
especially our kids (I've two!)

 

[eemmoo1]

Re: A MASTER THREAD of some of my posts here >>>

Ppl (some) often question/wonder here, "why Qorax writes such long posts?"
Answer: Just my inherent desire to make your transition easier, softer & adventurous.
And to let u know what (beauty) lies ahead - how this PR process enriches us & our families,
especially our kids (I've two!)
Dear Captain,

No need to disclaim your efforts. We really appreciate your efforts and time you spend on this forum. We enjoy reading your admirable posts. And it increases our eagerness to migrate to such a wonderful country.

eemmoo1

 

[qorax]

Re: A MASTER THREAD of some of my posts here >>>

Thanks!!

However I was going through the link given by Saki, it's very complicated to understand all that. I guess in the first 2 years of stay it will take that much time just understanding the taxation system & to take benefits of all the exemptions available.

Agreed to hire a GCA. But how would we know proactively to take steps in our day to day expenses as to where that expense/investment could be a tax saving step. Or is it we calculate all the minusus when we file the return & then wait for a refund?

Can the GCA advise us in advance & make a handy checklist of mistakes people often make while planning their tax to be paid or something like the most commonly exemptions available & that which make sense to avail. Like I was looking at the Child Benefit Scheme & did a dummy calculation using their calculator & the amount came to 8.62$ !! Now that maybe something not worth going after or maybe I am calculating wrong!!

Still this whole tax thing makes your Head go round & round !!!!

Top Ten tax-saving Strategies

Canadians may be heavily taxed, but here are steps you can take to keep more of what you earn:

1. Take the RRSP tax-deferral route.
Contributing to an RRSP is one great way of reducing your annual tax bill. Say your marginal tax rate is 40%, $10,000 to contribute & sufficient RRSP contribution room. Putting that money into your RRSP makes it fully deductible from income, reducing your tax bill by up to $4,000 (40% of $10,000). Plus there's another major tax benefit: Every dollar of investment income earned inside your RRSP is tax-deferred as long as it stays in the plan.

2. Arrange your investments to be tax-efficient.
If you invest both inside and outside an RRSP, your CGA can help you create a portfolio that takes all tax implications into consideration. The key is in how different types of income are taxed.

Dividends and capital gains usually receive preferential tax treatment, while interest income does not. But this preferential tax treatment doesn't apply to earnings in an RRSP. As a result, it generally makes sense to hold interest-bearing investments inside your RRSP, where they will be fully tax deferred, and investments that produce dividends and capital gains outside your RRSP so you can benefit from the preferential tax treatment they receive*. Investors Group also has non-registered investment products specifically designed to defer tax even when drawing an income from the investment to fund lifestyle expenses.

3. Consider income-splitting with your spouse.
You can reduce your tax bill significantly by implementing income-splitting strategies if your spouse is in a lower income bracket. Here are three strategies worth considering:

A. Spousal RRSP. If you are the main breadwinner in your family, you'll probably generate most of the retirement income—which may be taxed at high rates. By setting up a Spousal RRSP, you can transfer a portion of that income into your spouse's hands to be taxed at lower rates when it's withdrawn by your spouse.

B. Who pays, who invests. Have the higher income spouse pay all household expenses so that the lower-income spouse uses his or her earnings for investment purposes. The investment income will be taxed at the lower-income spouse's rate.

C. A prescribed rate loan. Gifts of interest free loans from a higher income spouse to a lower income spouse result in investment income being attributed back to the higher income spouse. However, if the gift or interest free loan is replaced by a loan that bears interest at the current prescribed rate, the attribution rules no longer apply and the investment income is taxed in the hands of the lower income spouse.

4. Maximize family income by employing family members.
If you run your own business, consider whether it's possible to hire your spouse or children as employees. As long as the salary paid for the services performed is reasonable, it will be taxed in their hands and you will get the deduction.

By transferring some of your taxable income to your children or a spouse, who earn little or no taxable income, you can shrink your family's overall tax bill. The attribution rules limit income-splitting with children under 18. If you give investments to a child under 18, for example, all interest and dividends on the original gift will be attributed back to you and taxed in your hands. This doesn't apply to capital gains, however, nor to income earned on income. Keep in mind that the attribution rules usually do not apply to children 18 or older.

5. Retirement has its tax benefits.
If you are retired, be sure to take advantage of the following:

A. Splitting CPP/QPP benefits. This easy to implement strategy results in quick tax savings. If your spouse's marginal tax rate is lower than yours, consider splitting your CPP or QPP benefits between you and your spouse.

B. Pension Income Tax Credit. One retired spouse may be unable to claim the federal tax credit available on up to $2,000 of pension income because he or she has no RRSP or pension income. However, interest income from an annuity may qualify for this credit if you are 65 or older. If your income is too low to take advantage of the pension credit, it can be transferred to your spouse who can use it to reduce his or her taxes, or vice-versa if your spouse is also 65 or older.

C. Pension income splitting. Up to 50% of any income you receive that qualifies for the pension income tax credit can be allocated to your spouse for tax purposes. Payments from a Registered Pension Plan qualify for this income splitting at any age, while RRIF payments qualify for pension income splitting starting at age 65.

6. Grow your investments faster through a Tax-Free Savings Account
Invest after-tax dollars into a Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA) and you will not be taxed on earned interest, dividends or capital gains even when withdrawn. Another important feature for retirees is that earnings within the account and subsequent withdrawals do not affect income-tested benefits such as Old Age Security, the Canada Child Tax Benefit or Guaranteed Income Supplement.

7. Consider an RESP.
While contributions to a Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP) aren't deductible, the investment earnings accumulate on a tax-deferred basis. In addition, the federal government will pay a Canada Education Savings Grant (CES Grant)* into the RESP subject to certain conditions.

When your child starts post-secondary school, your contributions can be withdrawn by you from the RESP, tax-free. The RESP investment earnings and CES Grants will be taxed in the hands of your child.

8. Consider 'freezing' your estate
Estate freezes are designed to redirect future growth in the value of an asset, plus the accompanying tax liability, to others. Selling or giving the assets to your children is the simplest type of freeze. They now own the asset and will pay tax on future increases in value. If the asset you give to your child is a capital asset, you will be faced with a disposition for tax purposes, and possibly a significant tax bill. The income attribution rules plus certain tax rules involving trusts can make this a complex issue. Advice from a qualified professional is essential when you are considering any type of estate planning, particularly estate freezes.

9. Defer tax with life insurance.
Permanent life insurance products, such as Whole and Universal Life policies, can also provide investment options. Typically, the tax on earnings is deferred until there is a payout.

10. Other savings opportunities
You can ask the Canada Revenue Agency to allow your employer to reduce withholdings if you have contributed to an RRSP early in the year, made large charitable donations, or incurred substantial medical expenses.

Child care expenses, alimony and taxable child support also may lower your income and reduce your withholding taxes.

Qorax

*CES Grant is administered by HRSDC. Ask your CGA about provincial programs in your area.

 

[qorax]

Re: A MASTER THREAD of some of my posts here >>>

Graphic Designers - Layout Artists

Canada Pay Scale:
http://www.payscale.com/research/CA/Job=Layout_Artist/Hourly_Rate

Some Job Adverts:
http://jobs.trovit.ca/jobs/layout-artist-toronto
http://ca.indeed.com/Graphic-Designer-Layout-Artist-jobs-in-Toronto,-ON

One Example Job Advert:
________________________________________________________________________________________
"BTT Communications" is looking for a
Graphic Designer and Layout Artist
in Toronto, Ontario
beginning Tuesday, 7th September

-Terms: This is a permanent, full time job
-Salary: will be negotiated and depends on the skills and experience of the applicant.
-Education: The applicant should have completed college or technical training.
-Experience: at least three years' experience.
-Area of Design Specialization: General graphic design, Commercial art, Visual art, Exhibits, Corporate identity, Advertising, Publications, Books, Annual reports, Multimedia, Forms
-Business Equipment and Computer Applications: IBM, MacIntosh, QuarkXpress, Illustrator, Photoshop, Corel Draw, InDesign
-Work Setting: Graphic design firm
-Specific Skills: Consult with clients to establish nature and context of designs and illustrations for reproduction, Prepare sketches, photographs or illustrations of subjects to be rendered, Prepare specifications for design, Produce final designs or illustrations
-Additional Skills: Estimate costs of materials and time to complete graphic designs and illustrations
-Own Tools/Equipment: Computer, Printer, Internet access, Equipment , Fax machine
-Work Samples: Portfolio, Web site URL, Published work, Design sample, Example of completed work
-Work Conditions and Physical Capabilites: Fast-paced environment, Work under pressure, Attention to detail, Hand-eye co-ordination, Ability to distinguish between colours, Sitting
-Work Site Environment: Non-smoking, Air conditioned
-Transportation/Travel Information: Public transportation is available
-Work Location Information: Urban area
-Essential Skills: Reading text, Document use, Numeracy, Writing, Oral communication, Working with others, Problem solving, Decision making, Critical thinking, Job task planning and organizing, Significant use of memory, Finding information, Computer use, Continuous learning
-Languages: Other than English, the applicant should write French.

Order Number: 5208280
Post date: 2010-08-17
________________________________________________________________________________________


Qorax

 

[coolguy001]

Re: A MASTER THREAD of some of my posts here >>>

très beau travail..Merci

 

[qorax]

Re: A MASTER THREAD of some of my posts here >>>

très beau travail..Merci

À votre bon cœur !

 

[mayankpandya]

Re: A MASTER THREAD of some of my posts here >>>

Dear All,

Want to inform that OP6 is updated now.

Please find the link to see recent update,

http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/resources/manuals/op/op06-eng.pdf

Regards,

Mayank

 

[eemmoo1]

Re: A MASTER THREAD of some of my posts here >>>

Dear Qorax,

I received my 2nd AOR dated July 15, 2010 from CHC London. Now I want to apply for CAIPS. But I am not sure when is the best time to apply for CAIPS keeping in mind the above date of 2nd AOR? Would you suggest something. My basic purpose is to check whether I got 67 or not.

 

[makpan]

Re: A MASTER THREAD of some of my posts here >>>

Thanks Mayank for update.

Dear All,

Want to inform that OP6 is updated now.

Please find the link to see recent update,

http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/resources/manuals/op/op06-eng.pdf

Regards,

Mayank

 

[qorax]

Re: A MASTER THREAD of some of my posts here >>>

Dear Qorax,

I received my 2nd AOR dated July 15, 2010 from CHC London. Now I want to apply for CAIPS. But I am not sure when is the best time to apply for CAIPS keeping in mind the above date of 2nd AOR? Would you suggest something. My basic purpose is to check whether I got 67 or not.

With the 2nd AOR it's believed that u have fetched the min score of 67, unless a recalculation is done, later, for some purpose.

Yes, u can also order your CAIPS. But by the time it lands in your hand (45 days) probably u'd have already recd your Meds.

Qorax

 

[pooja82]

Re: A MASTER THREAD of some of my posts here >>>

hi qorax
on what basis you are saying "already recd your meds"
i'm waiting since april. do u have any news (which migh bring smile on ur faces)
i'l sending email after christmas. when do they open after christmas / new year break?
thanks for ur help
cheers
pooja

 

[qorax]

Re: A MASTER THREAD of some of my posts here >>>

hi qorax
on what basis you are saying "already recd your meds"
i'm waiting since april. do u have any news (which migh bring smile on ur faces)
i'l sending email after christmas. when do they open after christmas / new year break?
thanks for ur help
cheers
pooja

U should actually be getting your meds call anytime now... given your timeline. Just wait for the CHC to open in full steam -- 4th Jan 2011. Expect action/s by 2nd week.

All the very best!

Qorax

 

[eemmoo1]

Re: A MASTER THREAD of some of my posts here >>>

With the 2nd AOR it's believed that u have fetched the min score of 67, unless a recalculation is done, later, for some purpose.

Yes, u can also order your CAIPS. But by the time it lands in your hand (45 days) probably u'd have already recd your Meds.

Qorax

Thanks Captain

 

[mahad]

Re: A MASTER THREAD of some of my posts here >>>

Dear Qorax!
I need your help.I want to discuss my case with you.plz help me.I apllied in CHC Islamabad in January 2008.I submitted my AEO in May 2008.I sent my original documents to CHC Islamabad in December 2009 on the request of CHC Islamabad.Till then there is a deep silence from CHC.I got my caips notes in April 2010.According to the caips notes they have given me 79 points.Only PSDEC is clear.My case is still in Islamabad.What should i do now?Should i go for caips notes?Please advise me.