How Far Will Canada Go to Help Newcomers Integrate Into the Workforce?

You were lured to Canada by Canadian immigration officers who’s promise of lucrative career opportunities and a better life abroad were all to seductive to pass up. As a highly educated professional in your native country you are well respected, your salary allows you to live in a big house, feed and educate your children, and enjoy the social status that comes along with it. But these immigration officers advise you that your credentials automatically qualify you for entry into Canada. Where you can find a job in your field for 10 times as much as what you could make in your country. Your decision is easy. After spending $15,000 for a ticket, application fees, and money in the bank, you’re finally ready to start your new life abroad. Leaving your wife and kids behind may not have been easy, but you know that in 1 year you will be settled in Canada with your 6-figure income and your three-story mansion on the hill with your family. After a long journey you arrive in Canada your credentials in tow, you anxiously begin your job search only to find out the credentials that you obtained outside of Canada do not meet Canadian qualifications and the only work you can get is driving a cab or working in the labour market.

Many newcomers have been mislead by the Canadian government into immigrating to Canada with the hopes of a better life. The Foreign Credential Assessment Office established a year ago offers hope for highly skilled immigrants to get their credentials recognized in order to utilize their skills. Though this program is long over due, it is a big step toward acknowledging the issues of foreign professionals working in our labour market.

The continued problems with racial discrimination in the work place have yet to be addressed.

With Canada’s so called “ job shortage” will companies now hire these skilled immigrants once there credentials meet their standards? Or will they continue to hire foreign temporary workers for inexpensive labour? Here are 4 reasons why companies might be reluctant to hire these immigrants once their credentials are recognized:

There are many good candidates that are not being hired simply because of racial discrimination. Immigrants are often more educated than local Canadians, but a Canadian born worker with less education is more likely to make more money. Some immigrants are told they are over qualified for a job or do not have sufficient Canadian experience for the position. This is also an issue common for non-white Canadians born in Canada. In order to guarantee the equal employment opportunities of skilled immigrants, a sufficient anti racial legislation needs to be implemented using methods that encourage interracial cooperation. Discrimination in Canada can be combated in the following ways:

Newcomers to Canada will benefit from the Foreign Credential Assessment process. However, further information is required for prospective newcomers to understand the barriers of finding a job in their field. Overseas services are also available to further assist perspective newcomers before settling in Canada. As we already know the Canadian government is not always forthcoming about their true motives, be sure to do a lot of research, and ask a lot of questions.

5 Things You Need to Know Before Migrating to Canada

Fancy cars, designer clothes, and high paying jobs are how many people in third world countries might imagine life in the western part of the world. After all, those who are lucky enough to immigrate to Canada, U.S., or the U.K. for a new and prosperous life, always return home for a visit after a couple of years bearing a ton of gifts for the entire family, building homes on huge acres of land, and spending heaps of cash that seem to be limitless. Yes, the lifestyles of those who live in western countries are very privileged in many ways that I can’t deny. I should know, I live in Alberta, Canada, an oil rich province where jobs are plentiful; salaries are high, and poverty, almost non-existent.

In addition to living in what appears to be a life of luxury, there are things all people should be fully aware of before settling in Canada.

#1) WESTERN MENTALITY

#1) WESTERN MENTALITY

Most people in third world countries do not have or may not be aware of credit cards or mortgages. So, if you know or see someone living in a big house or driving a luxurious car you can safely make the assumption that they are rich. However, in Canada or U.S. someone driving a luxurious car and living in a big beautiful house may or may not be rich. If you have good credit, you are eligible to get a mortgage, credit cards, car leases which basically means the bank really owns your car or house and you make monthly payments depending how much the loan is. It could take 2-5 years to pay off a car and 20 plus years for a house.

#2) STANDARD OF LIVING

#2) STANDARD OF LIVING

Keeping up with the Joneses is a common phrase used to describe a person who strives to have what there neighbour has. It is very common for a family who might make a combined annual income of $100,000 to be deeply in debt. Most likely, because they are living above their means in order to keep up appearances. A classic example of this is person I once knew who owned a beautiful million-dollar home in an upper class community. This house was decorated with elegant furniture top to bottom, big screen TV, and she even drove a brand new Mercedes. A lifestyle enviable by many, but what most people didn’t know is she could not afford to pay the electric bill and mortgage. Does that make sense to you? So it is important to understand that not everyone is rich in Canada, our idea of success is unrealistic and we are creating debt while in pursuit of riches.

#3) MONEY DOESN’T GROW ON TREES

#3) MONEY DOESN’T GROW ON TREES

In Canada, believe it or not, money is made from very hard work, long hours 5 days a week and for many even 6 or 7 days a week. There are some people who work 3 jobs just to make ends meet. Industrialization in Canada has created many jobs for skilled workers. However, many highly educated immigrants are found working such jobs as, slaughterhouses, taxi drivers, or janitorial jobs that most Canadians consider to be undesirable. These jobs do pay well because nobody wants to do them and they require very little training. Foreign credentials such as: medical, law, or any other degree obtained in a country outside Canada does not guarantee you a job in Canada. Your degree, which you worked hard for, may not be recognized by Canadian standards. To avoid disappointment it is important to understand what level of professional and academic standards you need to meet before you arrive.

#4) DISCRIMINATION & RACISM

#4) DISCRIMINATION & RACISM

If you are planning to migrate to Canada you must know that you may face this issue. Some cities are better than others but here in Alberta it might be the worst. A recent article in the Calgary Herald exposes Calgary as the hate crime capital of Canada. Growing up as an African Canadian in the 80’s , at a time when there were few black families I faced a lot of issues with racism. Though there are more visible minorities now, this problem still exists. Recently I met a man from Russia who faces racial slurs daily at his work place, he said even though his skin is the same colour as theirs they still discriminate against him because of his Russian accent. The fact that discrimination and racism can be very subtle and even non-verbal at times means that we need to work hard to prove ourselves at all times. Minorities are undervalued and may not have the same privileges as our Canadian counterpart, but we can still require respect in the work place or in school. The anti-harassment and discrimination policyis design to support us in this regard.

#5) CHANGE OF A LIFESTYLE

#5) CHANGE OF A LIFESTYLE

Canadian customs may be different from what your used to, but there are a few customs you may not be aware of. For example, it is customary to call and make an appointment to visit someone at there home, showing up unannounced is considered impolite. When you arrive make sure it’s on time as Canadians value punctuality, don’t forget to remove your shoes at the door at all times. Never make a comment about a women’s weight if she is over weight, this is considered very disrespectful, you’re better off commenting on weight loss as a compliment. In order to guarantee a successful social integration try to socialize with people outside of your cultural group. I notice a lot of immigrants of all different ethnicities tend to only surround themselves with those from the same cultural background. I understand that meeting with people from the same country you’re from is human nature, you have a lot in common such as: language, culture, or religion. But it is equally important to integrate into society by not segregating your self. Spending time with people from other cultures is a good chance for others to learn about your culture and break the barriers that cause discrimination.

As you can see here, in the western part of the world things are not always what is seems. We may not have smoke and mirrors like a magician but we do a pretty good job at creating the illusion that we live the ideal perfect life. Make sure to prepare yourself by weighing the pros and cons. Now that you have this knowledge what are you going to do about it? Share this article with someone you know and create awareness through education because knowledge is power.

An Investors Guide To Buying Real Estate in Greece

Greece has traditionally been a popular holiday destination but with relatively low interest in property investments. This situation is changing with recent interest from its European neighbors.The recent focus on Greece after the 2004 Olympics evoked worldwide interest thus pushing up tourism and demand for housing. With its serene coast line, affordable cost of living, an enviable history and culture, Greece is an enticing place to invest. The renewed interest in tourism has also brought with it a rising need for rental. The best part is that compared to its popular European neighbors like Spain, Portugal and France it is a better investment destination.
An overview of the property market
With an undervalued property market there could not be a better time to invest into Greece and it gets better depending on the choice of location which can give returns up to 20-25%. Wide arrays of properties are available but the ones on the main islands like Crete, Corfu and Rhodes are dearer. Choices are available between beautiful Greek traditional houses and modern suites though the location and condition of houses determine the price. Two bedroom apartments are priced from EUR89,000 to EUR355,000 and a three bed room house will cost between EUR148,000 and EUR503,000. Cheaper investments are possible if renovations can be undertaken.
Sellers Market
It is possible to drive a bargain and pick up older properties for cheaper rates but be prepared to spend a lot on repairs which can sometimes turn a nightmare. Depleted buildings with damages to sanitary lines and reconnecting electric supply could turn out more expensive than investing int a new apartment. When it comes to selling a property in Greece location is high on priority. Though it is difficult to get a property in the islands, it is easier to sell off.
Popular Locations in Greece
Mainland Greece is preferred by east Europeans and Scandinavians but the English favor investing in the islands. Crete with its rich history and tranquil landscape is most sought after location by holidaymakers but its calmness and scenic beauty is the reason why retired Europeans prefer it. The majority of property is owned by British investors and with rising rental potential, property rates have shot up by 6-10%. The mild and beautiful Peloponnese peninsula is ideal for investors a milder investment. A strong history and with a projected positive appreciation rate, prices have shot up by more than 20%. It is also attracting international interest.Greece has strong laws to protect and regulate their coastline which has resulted in kept them unexploited in spite of all the development.Air connectivity to the islands is good and getting better with flights from UK to all major islands like Crete, Rhodes and Corfu. There are direct flights from Manchester to Heraklion and also from Gatwick to Rhodes. GB airlines flights five flights from Gatwick to Heraklion.
The larger islands have well developed rental markets.The island of Peloponnese is cut off from the mainland by the canal of Corinth. This isolation is offset by other transportation channels like a motorway, railway link and the Kalamata airport. The island is dotted with sandy beaches and rugged mountains and offers warm winters and pleasant summers. Peloponnese is home to the famous Olympia, Epidaurus and Mycenae. The English are the largest group of investors as connectivity from Gatwick, Birmingham and Manchester to Kalmata is strong with the travel time less than 4 hrs. Older properties which can be purchased from Euro 45000, the range includes stone cottages, traditionally architected houses and villas.
Property Purchase
A lawyer with understanding and experience with Greek property procedures is recommended. Good English is an added benefit.
The purchase process
The process starts with agreeing on a price agreement and sealing it with a 10% advance followed by a pre-contract agreement signed by both parties. After all information gathering is completed the final deed of sale is signed in the front of a public notary. After paying the balance amount the owner can be transferred by registration.
Fees and Costs
Compared to other nations the tax for purchasing and registering in Greece is on the higher side. 13-15 percent of the cost of property would be paid as taxes which include transfer tax for resales, municipal tax to the local authorities, legal fees to lawyers and notaries and property registration. New buildings are charged 19 percent as Value Added Tax.
Financing
There are usually three options when it comes to financing a property. Cash, new Mortgages and re mortgaging an existing property are options for financing. Although cash is the easiest option, it is not always affordable. Mortgages for the property can be arranged by a Greek or UK lender. Giving up equity in a UK/Irish property can help purchase the Greek property in cash and thus make it an easy option. Greece has the highest interest rates as compared to its European neighbors. Lending is conservative and applicants have to furnish proof of income and rental projections are usually not considered.
Taxes in Greece
It is recommended that buyers get some taxation advice as Greek regulations are complex. Non residents may also fall into the bracket of income, wealth, inheritance and gift taxes. Since the UK/Ireland has a double taxation treaty with Greece you can be assured to escape paying tax in both countries. Acquiring a fiscal number, called the AFM is necessary to involve in any financial exchanges like property transactions, buying a vehicle or working in Greece. Holders of AFM have to file yearly tax returns irrespective of income.
Property Taxation Guidelines
To reduce speculation the Greek agencies have implemented Capital Gains tax which applies to property bought after 1st January 2006. The motive being to impose penalty on those looking for quick profit by levying it in inverse to the length of time the property is owned. The other tax for property holders is the wealth tax which is between 0.3 and 0.8 percent of the property value. Wealth tax is only levied on properties with valuation more than Euro 243,600.Apart from wealth and capital gains the others are local taxes. They take the form of direct and indirect taxes charged between .25 to .35 percent of the propertys official valuation.
Greek Economy
Greece trades chiefly with EU nations like Germany, Italy, France and also the USA in tourism, shipping, food, tobacco, textiles, mining and petroleum products. The sector growing rapidly is the service sector. Greek GDP annual growth was touching 4 percent during 2003-2005 periods which is above the European Union average and it has been performing uniformly. The introduction of reforms and funding from European Union are the top reasons for this consistent growth. The government has been working towards strengthening the labor and pension mechanism to arrest the growing unemployment, inflation and national debt.
Communications within Greece
Fixed and Mobile Telephone
The telephone market was controlled solely by the state through the Organismos Tilepikoinonion Ellados (OTE) until the markets opened up in 2002. Over the years OTE has lost market share but still controls a major chunk of the market. Though other players are coming in OTE still has a major in basic infrastructure like phone lines. Mobile phone use is substantial and pay-as-you-use cards are available at common stores but a contract phone card is only available by producing a Fiscal Number. Payphones are available in plenty.
Internet Usage
With the introduction of ADSL and Broadband, which are faster internet connections, internet use is quite popular. Larger towns and urban areas have access to high speed whereas dial-up and ISDN are readily available.
Postal
Letters, which are posted in mainland Greece, may take three days to a week to reach other European countries. The islands take longer or lesser based on their connectivity.
Investing into a property in a different country is a big decision and would require adequate research and many visits. Planning a budget and working by is advisable. It is smart to keep exit options available by studying the sellers market as property prices and situations dont remain constant. Professional opinion from a local lawyer or property consultant would be the best way to approach it. Factors like property valuation, rentals and growth potential are areas of expertise and it is best to hire the services of a proven consultant . A good understanding of the regulations for each country is also crucial before signing any purchase agreement. Be extra careful if it is a partnership or long term deal.