FSW 2014 applicants from Nigeria - Let's network

[ibadanchap]

Ok many thanks @ Gentle andrew, thing is I want to pay for an apartment for a short stay and the owner prefers card payment and all my naija cards (both debit and credit) are pretty much useless giving what is going on domestically....please let me know if there is any of the Canadian banks that can get my cards ready almost asap...thanks

Depending on circumstances and the requirements from the Landlord, you should be able to buy a prepaid visa or mastercard debit card from Walmart / Shoppers drugmart and use that. I am not sure you will be able to get your card sameday in any bank here.

 

[Pipis Husband]

Spot on!

Plz landed seniors, what uni scholarship opportunities are available to PR in graduate programs in canada? I have admission for fall semester as an international student ; Can I pay my tuition/switch to PR student if I get my PR in time?

This varies from school to school and you can get direct info from specific schools website. Being a PR opens up both federal and provincial scholarship opportunities but you have to check the website of each school to see what is on offer. There are also some profession specific scholarships that one can benefit from. If you receive your PR visa well ahead of school resumption times, you can apply to switch from international student status to PR status and enjoy significant reduction of fees. All the best.

 

[beforecanada2014]

Thank U PH! Worthy forum elder

This varies from school to school and you can get direct info from specific schools website. Being a PR opens up both federal and provincial scholarship opportunities but you have to check the website of each school to see what is on offer. There are also some profession specific scholarships that one can benefit from. If you receive your PR visa well ahead of school resumption times, you can apply to switch from international student status to PR status and enjoy significant reduction of fees. All the best.

 

[layorh12]

@Pipi's husband please I sent you a PM, kindly respond.

This varies from school to school and you can get direct info from specific schools website. Being a PR opens up both federal and provincial scholarship opportunities but you have to check the website of each school to see what is on offer. There are also some profession specific scholarships that one can benefit from. If you receive your PR visa well ahead of school resumption times, you can apply to switch from international student status to PR status and enjoy significant reduction of fees. All the best.

 

[kuskus]

@bebisco I do understand your thinking and feelings. I came to Canada on a work permit in 2013 and just officially landed this last Saturday 28th May (I will share that story in another post)

Several times I had told my wife I will be heading back to Nigeria during the times when I get challenged especailly by my work. but the truth is there is so much living in Canada offers much more than Nigeria. Some examples below

1. Education: I was paying over 1 million naira each for my 2 girls in a private secondary school in Nigeria, now they are both attending high school without paying a dime and the quality of what they learn and the opportunity it offers tis ways above their Naija experience. My oldest was offered admission to University of Toronto has an international student and we were given a bill of $44,000 per session. Yesterday night we were researching what she would pay as a PR and the total is now less than $16,000. and that is not counting scholarships she is now eligible for and the Ontario reduction in her school fees.

2. Health care: Last year I took ill with a strange illness where I could not eat. I lost over 12 kg within 3 months and did several tests and saw specialist and had a mini surgery. Eventually what was wrong was diagnosed and treated. all this lasted for about 5 months. I did not pay a dime again for all the tests / surgery /specialist doctors. I can not imagine what the same quality of treatment would have cost me in Nigeria

3. Organised society / peace of mind: Back home in Nigeria, I sleep with one eye open, when traveling you are always praying against armed robbers. Here I work till 12 midnight and never ever worry when driving home, you dont worry about fuel scarcity and unplanned events that will scatter your own plans. You actually have a better chance of having a plan for the future that works.

I am also always happy when I see how well my children are fitting into the society. i know I came here late but I am not regretting for the possibilities it opens up for my children and even myself. And as a christian, I always remind myself that surely the land on which my foot has trodden will be an inheritance to me and to my children forever.

As other posters have mentioned, one needs to have a positive mindset. I believe Canada is a much better deal than Nigeria even as it may not be perfect.
Congratulations to everyone who has their CoPRs and for all those still expecting updates, It will end in praise.

Excellent! Nice one bro...

 

[teagirl]

@bebisco I do understand your thinking and feelings. I came to Canada on a work permit in 2013 and just officially landed this last Saturday 28th May (I will share that story in another post)

Several times I had told my wife I will be heading back to Nigeria during the times when I get challenged especailly by my work. but the truth is there is so much living in Canada offers much more than Nigeria. Some examples below

1. Education: I was paying over 1 million naira each for my 2 girls in a private secondary school in Nigeria, now they are both attending high school without paying a dime and the quality of what they learn and the opportunity it offers tis ways above their Naija experience. My oldest was offered admission to University of Toronto has an international student and we were given a bill of $44,000 per session. Yesterday night we were researching what she would pay as a PR and the total is now less than $16,000. and that is not counting scholarships she is now eligible for and the Ontario reduction in her school fees.

2. Health care: Last year I took ill with a strange illness where I could not eat. I lost over 12 kg within 3 months and did several tests and saw specialist and had a mini surgery. Eventually what was wrong was diagnosed and treated. all this lasted for about 5 months. I did not pay a dime again for all the tests / surgery /specialist doctors. I can not imagine what the same quality of treatment would have cost me in Nigeria

3. Organised society / peace of mind: Back home in Nigeria, I sleep with one eye open, when traveling you are always praying against armed robbers. Here I work till 12 midnight and never ever worry when driving home, you dont worry about fuel scarcity and unplanned events that will scatter your own plans. You actually have a better chance of having a plan for the future that works.

I am also always happy when I see how well my children are fitting into the society. i know I came here late but I am not regretting for the possibilities it opens up for my children and even myself. And as a christian, I always remind myself that surely the land on which my foot has trodden will be an inheritance to me and to my children forever.

As other posters have mentioned, one needs to have a positive mindset. I believe Canada is a much better deal than Nigeria even as it may not be perfect.
Congratulations to everyone who has their CoPRs and for all those still expecting updates, It will end in praise.

This is a good post. Thank you.

 

[Prince.Karim]

@bebisco I do understand your thinking and feelings. I came to Canada on a work permit in 2013 and just officially landed this last Saturday 28th May (I will share that story in another post)

Several times I had told my wife I will be heading back to Nigeria during the times when I get challenged especailly by my work. but the truth is there is so much living in Canada offers much more than Nigeria. Some examples below

1. Education: I was paying over 1 million naira each for my 2 girls in a private secondary school in Nigeria, now they are both attending high school without paying a dime and the quality of what they learn and the opportunity it offers tis ways above their Naija experience. My oldest was offered admission to University of Toronto has an international student and we were given a bill of $44,000 per session. Yesterday night we were researching what she would pay as a PR and the total is now less than $16,000. and that is not counting scholarships she is now eligible for and the Ontario reduction in her school fees.

2. Health care: Last year I took ill with a strange illness where I could not eat. I lost over 12 kg within 3 months and did several tests and saw specialist and had a mini surgery. Eventually what was wrong was diagnosed and treated. all this lasted for about 5 months. I did not pay a dime again for all the tests / surgery /specialist doctors. I can not imagine what the same quality of treatment would have cost me in Nigeria

3. Organised society / peace of mind: Back home in Nigeria, I sleep with one eye open, when traveling you are always praying against armed robbers. Here I work till 12 midnight and never ever worry when driving home, you dont worry about fuel scarcity and unplanned events that will scatter your own plans. You actually have a better chance of having a plan for the future that works.

I am also always happy when I see how well my children are fitting into the society. i know I came here late but I am not regretting for the possibilities it opens up for my children and even myself. And as a christian, I always remind myself that surely the land on which my foot has trodden will be an inheritance to me and to my children forever.

As other posters have mentioned, one needs to have a positive mindset. I believe Canada is a much better deal than Nigeria even as it may not be perfect.
Congratulations to everyone who has their CoPRs and for all those still expecting updates, It will end in praise.

Thanks for sharing! Everyone here struggling to settle in Canada for better quality of life for own n Family

 

[teagirl]

Depending on circumstances and the requirements from the Landlord, you should be able to buy a prepaid visa or mastercard debit card from Walmart / Shoppers drugmart and use that. I am not sure you will be able to get your card sameday in any bank here.

TD Canada bank gives you a debit visa card instantly but your credit card will be ready in 1-2 weeks and mailed to you or you could choose to pick it up at the bank.

 

[Mabertia]

Congratulations 7G

Good Morning All,

It's been really a long journey but 'am happy to finally announce receipt of our visas and CPR's this morning.

With no intention to bore you please see below for a summary of the journey.

Started FSW1 since 2002 through an agent but had to abort it when it became obvious that the agent was more interested in the money and not the

case' progress (Roadblock #1).

Resumed the journey again in 2007 by myself but encountered a roadblock when entire FSW1 programs prior to 2008 batch were cancelled by CIC in 2012. Processing fee was refunded in 2012 (Roadblock #2).

Decided to reapply in 2013, then another roadblock in 2013 when my NOC cat. was moved to FSTC which requires RED SEAL certification from provinces (Roadblock #3).

Through divine inspiration and quick thinking, had to switch to another NOC on FSW list.

Then came the battle with WES. Wanted them to include my Naija qualification on my report to boost my chances but they saw no reason. Several mails back and forth to them and Naija school until finally they re-issued a revised report (Roadblock #4).

At the same time ongoing challenge with our HR dept. that had stopped issuing letters detailing job descriptions/ main duties in their letters (Roadblock #5).
Had to get my supv. to attest to my main duties and job functions. Prepared cover letters with our signatures and had all the docs notarized at a high court. People doubted the efficacy of this strategy but I had confidence it'll suffice and be relevant.

All docs were ready just in time to send to CIC in Dec 5, 2014 before closure of FSW1 program.

The rest as you can see is now history.

Wishing everyone the best outcomes in whatever stages of their journeys and I hope my story inspires someone.

 

[Mabertia]

Thanks for this piece of enlightenment, God bless you plenty!!!

@bebisco I do understand your thinking and feelings. I came to Canada on a work permit in 2013 and just officially landed this last Saturday 28th May (I will share that story in another post)

Several times I had told my wife I will be heading back to Nigeria during the times when I get challenged especailly by my work. but the truth is there is so much living in Canada offers much more than Nigeria. Some examples below

1. Education: I was paying over 1 million naira each for my 2 girls in a private secondary school in Nigeria, now they are both attending high school without paying a dime and the quality of what they learn and the opportunity it offers tis ways above their Naija experience. My oldest was offered admission to University of Toronto has an international student and we were given a bill of $44,000 per session. Yesterday night we were researching what she would pay as a PR and the total is now less than $16,000. and that is not counting scholarships she is now eligible for and the Ontario reduction in her school fees.

2. Health care: Last year I took ill with a strange illness where I could not eat. I lost over 12 kg within 3 months and did several tests and saw specialist and had a mini surgery. Eventually what was wrong was diagnosed and treated. all this lasted for about 5 months. I did not pay a dime again for all the tests / surgery /specialist doctors. I can not imagine what the same quality of treatment would have cost me in Nigeria

3. Organised society / peace of mind: Back home in Nigeria, I sleep with one eye open, when traveling you are always praying against armed robbers. Here I work till 12 midnight and never ever worry when driving home, you dont worry about fuel scarcity and unplanned events that will scatter your own plans. You actually have a better chance of having a plan for the future that works.

I am also always happy when I see how well my children are fitting into the society. i know I came here late but I am not regretting for the possibilities it opens up for my children and even myself. And as a christian, I always remind myself that surely the land on which my foot has trodden will be an inheritance to me and to my children forever.

As other posters have mentioned, one needs to have a positive mindset. I believe Canada is a much better deal than Nigeria even as it may not be perfect.
Congratulations to everyone who has their CoPRs and for all those still expecting updates, It will end in praise.

 

[Ed_b_good]

Congratulations 7G, it has ended in praise, wishing you success as you prepare to integrate in your new country.

Good Morning All,

It's been really a long journey but 'am happy to finally announce receipt of our visas and CPR's this morning.

With no intention to bore you please see below for a summary of the journey.

Started FSW1 since 2002 through an agent but had to abort it when it became obvious that the agent was more interested in the money and not the

case' progress (Roadblock #1).

Resumed the journey again in 2007 by myself but encountered a roadblock when entire FSW1 programs prior to 2008 batch were cancelled by CIC in 2012. Processing fee was refunded in 2012 (Roadblock #2).

Decided to reapply in 2013, then another roadblock in 2013 when my NOC cat. was moved to FSTC which requires RED SEAL certification from provinces (Roadblock #3).

Through divine inspiration and quick thinking, had to switch to another NOC on FSW list.

Then came the battle with WES. Wanted them to include my Naija qualification on my report to boost my chances but they saw no reason. Several mails back and forth to them and Naija school until finally they re-issued a revised report (Roadblock #4).

At the same time ongoing challenge with our HR dept. that had stopped issuing letters detailing job descriptions/ main duties in their letters (Roadblock #5).
Had to get my supv. to attest to my main duties and job functions. Prepared cover letters with our signatures and had all the docs notarized at a high court. People doubted the efficacy of this strategy but I had confidence it'll suffice and be relevant.

All docs were ready just in time to send to CIC in Dec 5, 2014 before closure of FSW1 program.

The rest as you can see is now history.

Wishing everyone the best outcomes in whatever stages of their journeys and I hope my story inspires someone.

 

[Ed_b_good]

Hi bebisco, those butterflies in your stomach, everyone experiences it, however, what keeps you going is your determination and will to make it, get involved in volunteer activities, get to know people in church, your neighbourhood e.t.c, NETWORK, attend newcomer programs and career workshops. The more you know, the easier it gets. Cheers.

Thanks everyone for the congratulatory messages. :-*. Joy will always be in this forum as our good news keep flowing in and all our challenges being tackled by the grace of God.

@ TENMEN, I got PPR on April 18, my PP got there April 22, RPRF came mail May 6, PUM came May 30. But I have come to understand that these timelines are not cast on stone. No two person's own is ever the same. People like Sambade, Codedguy, Ebube we all got PPR same day if I am not mistaking but they all got their PUM before me. So I'll just say relax, pray, praise and be happy. No matter what happens, it will end in Praise.

7G,
your testimony rocks. You have a Lion heart.
Thanks for not giving up. With this kind of resilience, I am confident you will be great in Canada though the beginning might be tough.

N/B: Canada is not a bed of roses ooo. But as we strive to go there and with the right mindset to start small and grow, we will get to our desired haven.
These thought has been running through my mind, starting all over in a new job which might not be as lucrative as the one you are doing in Naija, house-rent (a 2-bedroom flat for between $800 - $1200, the cold, Culture Shock etc.....

Seniors??????? @PH @Ed et al, please don't laugh at me ooo
where are you guys? please tell us the truth oo, how dat side be? E come be like say my heart come dey skip as the journey to get Visa and COPR don finally end for me and landing dey look me for eye.... come July... a month away...

Well as we say, It will ONLY end in Praise.... Enjoy this.....https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nuBA5YSsWUI

 

[Ed_b_good]

Some do I think, but before you open a bank account, you will need to have your SIN, I am not very sure if that can be gotten at the weekend, maybe PH can throw some more light there, but basically if you don't have your SIN, you can't open an account. But if you do, some banks issue you a debit card immediately and a credit card comes in the mail about a week or two later, or you pick up at the branch. My suggestion if you open the bank account and collect your Debit card, ensure that you have online banking operational, then make a transfer with INTERAC, ask the bank they'll put you through on this.

Landed Seniors,

Please I have a question ooo....Do banks in Canada open for business on saturday??...I will be landing on a saturday morning and I want to explore the possibility of opening a bank account on the same day, will await a response. Many thanks.

 

[Ed_b_good]

Thanks for the info ibadanchap

God bless you for this information oga PH. I have been driving for close to 2 years now in Ontario and never new you could be ticketed for this. Your information caused me to do some more research, not for the GPS but because I have a dashcam on my windshield as well (and makes no sense for me to mount a dashcam on the dashboard or air vent)

To my dismay, I found out I even broke the law yesterday in my drive to Buffalo in New York State. For a moment we had a police cruiser behind us and my wife was even thinking we were going to get pulled over. Based on the information I found out after I read your post, I thank God that did not happen. I am going to look for a good air vent mount for my GPS ASAP.

However, while I found information about mounting GPS on windshields more specific for US states, Canada / Ontario laws were more vague. Depending on circumstances, I think the Naija sister may be able to fight her ticket in court. She can check the MTO website and also google for "equipment obstructing view windshield"

On a side note, for those who wants to use their smart phone for GPS, I recommend Waze. That app has saved me from being late to work several times by routing me through alternate roads when it notices traffic jam on my usual route to work.

 

[Ed_b_good]

Congratulations bebisco, it has ended in praise.

Dear e-family, pick up mail dropped 11:28pm in my mail box. God is faithful.

Those expecting one update or the other; those having one issue or the other, don't give up on your dream!!!

Your miracle is just closer to you than you can ever imagine.

Way Maker, Miracle worker, Promise Keeper, Light in the Darkness, my God, that is who You are. I will worship him forever, love him for ever because this God is too good ooo :-*

Tario...34, thanks, I am happy that at least the songs are not wasted, they encourage a lot on this Forum. Even if they don't acknowledge ;D ;D ;D ;D

Enjoy this https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n4XWfwLHeLM specially dedicated to you.

"Incanada2016" get ready for a blast this week.