Immigration is an exciting but complicated process. One of the most common mistakes new citizens make is leaving for Canada unprepared. Preparation ahead of time is necessary to help reduce the stress of navigating the immigration process. This blog post looks at four different areas to focus on to help make immigration easier!
1. Get A Complete Medical Examination
Getting a medical examination ahead of time is a good way to kickstart the immigration process. Everyone who applies for a visa needs to schedule an appointment with an authorized physician in your new country. Make sure you make your appointment before your visa interview date so you can bring all the necessary documents.
After getting an up to date examination, ask your doctor to help you gather your medical documents. You’ll need things like your old dental files, visual prescription history, x-ray history and other medical documentation to help your doctor in your new country. Giving your new doctor as much documentation as possible makes the transition much more manageable.
2. Gather And Make Copies Of Your Important Documents
Immigration is a process that relies heavily on exchanging documents. Having extra copies on hand will almost always come in handy. Setting your essential documents aside ahead of time will relieve some of the pressure of the immigration process. Do yourself a favor and gather your employment, medical and other personal records ahead of time.
Although you may have to take extra courses once you arrive in Canada, you should still bring document proof of your education. An immigration lawyer can help you find the best way to move forward and have your training recognized in your new country. Bring copies of your academic transcripts, diplomas, licenses, reference letters with contact details and your resume.
3. Decide What You Want To Bring With You
Not everything needs to come with you so you’ll need to decide what to leave at home. The more items you bring, the more expensive it will be to move. Being strategic with what you bring can make your relocation more cost-effective.
When it comes to electronic devices, make sure they’re compatible in your new country before you bring them. International TV’s and appliances usually run on a different voltage than the outlets in Canada. Usually, it’s cheaper to replace these items rather than pay to have them brought with you, only for them not to work.
Another tip when it comes to bringing your stuff is to make sure you get insurance. You don’t want to be left out to dry in case something happens to your shipment or your items get damaged en route. Keep in mind you’ll have to pick up your things at the Canada Border Services Agency once you arrive. As long as you have the necessary immigration documents this should be a quick process.
4. Spend Some Time Working On Your Professional Skills
Working on your professional skills is an excellent way to distinguish yourself when applying for jobs. People with strong soft skills stand out from others even before an interview is completed. Developing your communication, language, and presentation skills are examples of ways you can help yourself stand out.
One of the best skills you can work on is listening. Becoming a strong, active listener is something most Canadians struggle with. You need to prepare for a lot of information to be thrown at you in the work environment. It’s important to know how to receive information and distill what you need to do with it. Developing skills such as note-taking and picking up on verbal cues will help you become a better listener.
