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I immigrated to Canada in 2010, and here are my experiences inside and outside Canada. I am grateful for a good education; having a Canadian passport opened up many opportunities in other countries to build a higher-level career. However, if I had known the amount of stress, health, and financial damage that I had to endure, I wouldn't have chosen to come to Canada. I would have remained in the US or EU countries where I could achieve even more without suffering to the level I did here. \n\nMisleading immigration promotion: The government-sponsored Canadian immigration program oversells what Canada can offer. It withholds information on the cost of living, chicken-and-egg problems like Canadian work experience is required to get a job at the same level as you are in, Canadian credit history is required to rent a proper apartment, Canadian education is required to secure a high-level job, etc. \n\nHiring process: I knew the Canadian system was not ideal for immigrants over a decade ago, but it got so bad now that even the born citizens are unable to survive. The Canadian government and employers lack a basic understanding that ambitious, high-achieving people immigrate to other countries for high-level positions using proper channels. It's ridiculous to see that Canada uses a point-based system to choose highly qualified personnel to enter their country yet expects them to pursue low-paying entry-level or labor jobs just because they have brown/black skin. At first, I thought having a Canadian degree and experience might help me get high-level jobs, and I didn't think how I spoke or looked would matter when I had high credentials to show off. So, I got my masters & Ph.D. from the Univesity of Toronto, which consistently ranks #1 in Canada. I have a bachelor's from a prestigious university in Asia and had a high-competitive, well-paid federal government job in another country. Still, none of that was recognized in Canada, and I had to volunteer for over 6 months, 10 to 12 hours/day, in a research lab that led to a funded PhD program. I worked even harder during my Ph.D. with many accomplishments, like 40+ research and leadership awards, internationally recognized scientific discoveries, and innovative technologies. I checked all the above and beyond in various domains (research, teaching, leadership, business, engineering consulting, collaborations, etc.). Yet, employers couldn't see past my race, gender, age, etc., and refused to give me the opportunity at the level of my qualifications. Luckily, I managed to secure short-term work in the UK & the US, and it changed even how I see myself. I was highly respected for my credentials, given higher positions than I applied for, and paid 3-4 times more salary and benefits. Of course, bias is an integral part of every society, but my race, gender, age, etc., were not as big of an issue to begin my career at the mid-career stage in these countries as opposed to Canada. \n\nHealthcare: Access to healthcare was another big challenge for me. When I moved to Canada in 2010, due to extremely low temperatures, I developed hives all over my body, my eyes got red, and I coughed for many months. The doctor said there was nothing wrong with me and refused to give me any medication. It took us years to get a family doctor, and we got one through my personal network. In 2015/2016, I developed an autoimmune disease, and my eyeballs popped out. As of today, I did not get to see an eye specialist as they have only 1 specialist in the area, and the waiting time is for years for the first consultation. Every time the family doctor told me that I had iron deficiency, even when I insisted that they should run additional tests and they cleared, they were flagged. The doctor never diagnosed my autoimmune condition. Luckily, during my short-term work in the UK, I saw competent interns who completed my care. NHS is poorer than the medical system in Canada... they are understaffed, don't have hospital beds after surgery, or don't have stock of paper gowns, yet the staff are highly competent and caring. Within 1-2 years, they did complete diagnosis by sending me to various specialists, completed eye surgery, and even found a lifelong condition that was preventing me from realizing my full potential. Following, in the US, the doctors confirmed the diagnosis of all the conditions within 1-2 months and put me on two small pills for life. It has dramatically changed my life, and I have even more admiration for the medical profession. While in Canada, I suffered for over a decade, and every time, I was treated as a hypochondriac and never given a single prescription. \n\nQuality of life: Big cities like Toronto are mainly affected by high crime rates, overpopulation, cost of living, low employment, low salaries, etc. A few months back, there was a huge auto theft, and one of my contacts lost their Lexus car within minutes of parking. Despite being a scientist, I have no faith in politicians or individuals fixing these problems. The salaries are not increasing, but the taxes and cost of living are on the exponential growth curve. The ridiculous part is that Canada expects you to pay taxes even when you are not employed or living in Canada! I lived in London and Boston, and they offer a much higher quality of life and pay. \n\nGrowth potential: No wonder Canada, being a G7 country, falls at the bottom of the list in innovation, equal opportunities, economic growth, etc. It has a decent education system but, due to its inherent bias in the hiring process and monopoly of certain businesses, loses talented immigrants and highly qualified Canadians to the US, the UK, and EU markets. Unless there is a dramatic shift in policies, Canadians, especially new immigrants, cannot expect any positive experience in Canada except for being discriminated against and losing valuable time and money by being there.

What has happened in Canada is actually quite simple. Companies sell products and services. Companies require employees in order to sell those products and services. The difference between what the companies can those products and services for and what they pay the employees is profit. The owners of the companies want to maximize this profit, therefore want to pay employees as little as possible. Scarcity is labour is one of the driving factors behind what employees are paid. One way to decrease scarcity of labour is to bring in massive amounts of immigrants. That is exactly what Canada has been doing for decades. The owners of the companies take profits and invest it in real estate. This makes real estate unaffordable for the employees whose wages have been suppressed. Lower wages also means less money from taxes available for services like health care. We allowed our politicians to be bribed into allowing massive levels of immigration. Stagnant wage growth resulted in lowered consumptive capacity in the economy. This lead to stagnant economic activity and lowered investment into things that would make the Canadian economy more productive. What we have now is unaffordable housing. Lack of jobs. A failing health care system. An educational system where the bar was lowered to accommodate the lowest common denominator. Increased crime and substance abuse resulting from the subsequent hopelessness. Several families living in a single house. People working several low paying jobs just to try to get by. People with full-time jobs that are forced to choose between being homeless or starving to death. The immigrants that are still coming here are sleeping on the sidewalk in front of homeless shelters, or maybe scraping by delivering UberEats.

Many recent immigrants I have known have left Canada because the cost of living is too high. From my experience they work very hard, usually working 60+ hours a week. After some time they crunch the numbers and realize no matter how hard they try they will not get anywhere so they leave. For those born in Canada we find ourselves being chased out of our hometowns because it is too expensive to live there. For myself it was either stay in Vancouver, surrendering more than half of your income to rent or move out of the city to buy an apartment. In the major cities there is a mass exodus of young people and the strategy has been to replace that exodus with immigration. The problem is that is not sustainable as now new immigrants, seeking a better life are not finding it in major Canadian cities. For those who already own property in the lower mainland the selfish mentality is to do whatever you can to deny construction, thus maintaining the scarcity and value of what little land/housing there is in desirable areas. Zoning laws are beginning to change but progress is slow and municipalities have failed to keep up with infrastructure so the growing pains is going to be immense. It's beautiful here now doubt but if I had no ties and a solid financial footing I would have left long ago. Generations ago you could show up to Canada with no money and thrive if you were willing to work hard. Now hard work won't get you anything.

Very interesting analysis. As a US investor in Canadian companies from Florida, I like see whats happening up there. \nThe comments seem to reflect my own fb in the US....people complaining about high prices of housing and food. This seems to be an OECD post pandemic phenomenon. \nI will say, if you can invest in your monopolies and oligopolies, you will do well. Canada has some of the best, safest and conservatively run companies and banks. \n....and while you may complain about your health care, here in America, everyone lives in fear of getting sick and then being wiped out financially.

I'm Canadian and unfortunately everything in this video is accurately portrayed. The province in which I reside doesn't have it as bad as the ones mentionned in this video, and I can confirm that housing is still somewhat very affordable in a lot of areas if you don't mind a long-ish commute to the city when you have business there.\n\nStaying in a more rural area is fortunately a very valid option for tons of people as a lot of employers adopted telework permanently following the pandemic, but yeah essentially if you wanna live in an urban centre, good luck!

As a Canadian, I looked into becoming an auto mechanic. Its going to take a year of school, tuition and then, in your first year, you'll make entry level wage and have to pay $3000 in tools. You might even need a truck to haul your tools around. They keep saying how they need tradespeople in Ontario, but the licensing/ apprentice process takes so long for people to transition into. Every trade is so complicated to get involved in. There is a situation where there are willing and capable people, but the admin process is too expensive and bars people who are in need of paying groceries, rent and bills. They can't find enough millrights either. Its the same problem.\n\nYou've got a surplus of willing and capable workers and employers seeking talent, but the admin process inhibits the entire process. \n\nIf I could start apprenticing on-the-job today as a mechanic or millright I would. But, I need to support family, so instead I am working readily available joe-jobs. \n\nAll trade positions will continue to be unfilled on job posting boards, while potential candidates will be busy working low pay jobs in warehouses etc. just trying to survive. Ontario is idiotic! Back in 2014 they introduced the Ontario College of Trades which only sought to take admin fees from every conceivable profession. The old bureaucratic established people in Ontario have a way of keeping everyone as peasants and minions. This is also why people are leaving for Alberta (a wise decision).

Well I will tell you that I am an immigrant with Canadian citizenship, I have been living in Canada for almost 12 years, and I have decided to leave Canada to live permanently in my home country Peru. The reasons why I will leave Canada are mainly the extremely high cost of life (the rent mainly) I have lived in Toronto for almost 7 years and until now I am renting rooms because it's the only space I can afford with my current salary. The other reason is the health care service, as the lady in the video mentioned, I have been in the waiting list for 2 years to see an specialist and until now nothing. I got used to the weather, the people, the snow, I have my own car but it's sucking me almost CAD$1000 per month among monthly payments, gasoline and insurance. While in Lima Peru the cost of life is almost a third part of what it's here. The food is cheap and the quality is high (everything is organic in Peru). I will keep my Canadian job and work remotely from Lima and I will live like a king¡¡¡¡¡, I miss the food, the beaches, the amazing social life and with my Canadian passport I will be able to travel anywhere in the world once a year ..... now that's what I call living the life .... I am so excited¡¡¡

Forget about immigrants, at least they can go back to their countries and jobs. It is not the costs only, it's the culture, the business how it is run in Canada. What about Canadian borns and Canadian educated?. A software developer, born and raised in Canada and for a year and half can't find a single job, not even an entry level with minimum pay or p/to. Not even a chance to call on one phone interview With lost hopes, seeking a job in Europe!. A young proud Canadian, who loved his country more than anything. \nImmigrants, run away or don't come, as really there is no job in Canada. Posting that you see, are sitting for years some of them and just rejecting candidates without hiring anyone.

As a Canadian born and raised \nI am leaving ASAP. Canada is no longer a safe affordable place to raise a family. I have an 11 year old son, i am not raising him here. My biggest reasons are 1 the Libtards in charge 2 safety 3 cost of living 4 weather.

My neighborhood had a big influx of immigrants moving in and I can see the difference they brought, they never cut grass, leave garbage out on lawn, they use the creeks as their own waste dump they give off looks at you like you're a problem in your own country, they stare in a very creepy manor at women, I had one stand at the end of my driveway and film my house, like just weird shit all the time. Not to mention there always seems to be like 12 of them living in a basment apartment, half probably cant speak english or even have a legit reason to be in Canada, then you see them bagging for money and its like why are they even here if you cant afford to live here? \nImmigration at this point is an insult to Canadians and to the ones who legally immigrated and wanted to be apart of canadian culture.

The corrupted Canadian government has to stop keep on recklessly bringing Refugees and Immigrants from mainly those war torn countries such as Ukrainian ,Syrian India and China and so on , Canada has reached its limitation of Refugees ,and immigrants just look at the health care crisis , and rental disasters ... Canadian government hosts all the Corrupted creatures who have stolen money through Corruption and bribery into Canada , because that is the most important things for the Canadian government is the Money coming in , there are Chinese corrupted millionaires for example who have bought all the Houses all over Canada causing this shortages of properties and at an astronomical costs , and also other corrupted creatures from Russia ,and Iran for example who are allowed by the corrupted Canadian government to bring in Canada their corrupted stollen money from their countries and have bought Mansions in Vancouver ,Toronto ,Montreal and other towns and creating this Bubble of real state market .\nCanada’s most vast land is inhabitable due to the harsh winter climate and has a dozen Provinces ,so how can Canada accommodate so many Refugees and immigrants, and most of these Refugees from Syria’s origins come with 2 to 5 children and get free child support until their 18 years of age , and there are now hundred of thousands of them Abusing this Free child care Money ..\nThis is all a Scam system In place .

You are lying to the people about Canada or you don't know. West Africans, aka sub Saharan African are not the favoured group selected for immigration to Canada. For some reason the immigration policy favours Indians from India. 90% of the people favoured now for immigration into Canada are Indians and secondly Latinos from Mexico or some other Latin American country. People from West Africa are a trickle. All this information is on line, Google it. Also Canada is experiencing inflation and everyone is crying about the very high cost of living and finding housing. The housing market is now going through a depression and the amortization rate instead of 30 years is now leaning towards 40-60 years owing to high interest rates. People do your homework. \n\nDo not listen to people who want to blow up themselves making false claims. Also there is not overt racism but it definitely THERE, try promotion to the highest level of management in the work place and see how many years you will plateau till retirement, aka HIT THE CONCRETE SEALING. Bro, I don't doubt your experience but you are definitely an anomaly, aka an exception as you are saying that you are here in Canada living the good life. So many West Africans in Toronto are working with InstaCard, Door Dash and doing Uber and Lyft. It is called the GIG economy. You are not in a stable job. The living standard is high in Canada, meaning even the poorest has access to a quality life through the Social Services govt system. Maybe you think that is living the good life equivalent or on par with a person of European ancestry who is at least 3rd generation Canadian and in over 75% of the cases have had a transference of Generational wealth.

1) Toronto is poor value. Getting housing of any kind (buying or renting) is stupidly expensive. And the quality you get for the price is lousy. Especially the newer builds, which are just thrown up as quickly as possible and sold to investors. Policy measures generally all seem to serve to just inflate the price of housing further. The occasional lip service given to affordability is amusing, but ultimately sad. There are lots of people who really do not want the housing bubble to pop. They will fight against it with all they have.\n\n2) It has become kind of boring. There is lots to do if you have money, but it’s harder to find entertainment on a budget. Even the free stuff like parks are filling up. Stuff like sporting events, eating out, going out is very costly across the board. Even the “cheaper” stuff is expensive. It seems like a lot of local culture is disappearing. Even the cool neighbourhoods are filling up with the same chains. I think the high commercial rent and bureaucracy is deflating a lot of would-be entrepreneurs. Most landowners seem to just be banking on cashing out their land for condos.\n\n3) Canada overall has a high cost of living compared to salaries. In the US you can find lower cost of living areas that still give you a real city experience. And in Europe you can be poor but still live a decent, if no frills, life. In Canada the basic necessities are all expensive. Phone bills, grocery bills, rent, insurance are through the roof. Domestic travel is expensive. And the dollar sucks if you want to travel abroad. Health care is free but good luck finding a family doctor or waiting 8 hours in the ER these days. It’s expensive to be poor, or even middle class.\n\n4) Most of the Greater Toronto Area, outside the core, is soulless suburbs with awful transit - very “American” except with worse traffic congestion. You will need a car, which is another huge cost. Row upon row of old cookie cutter suburbs with the same crappy houses. Good luck walking anywhere, and if you do you will need to walk down boring, treeless arterial roads with cars zooming past right beside you, and cross giant eight lane intersections that were never built for humans on foot. In a rainstorm or on a fall evening you have to be really careful not to be run over by aggressive drivers.\n\n5) It is hard to raise a family in an apartment here. You can do it but it’s not very easy, and also you are still kind of judged for it. Lots of young people are feeling stuck and are deferring or avoiding starting a family. Buying any type of house, even a basic townhouse, requires pledging your soul to a bank by taking a massive mortgage with eye watering debt in a volatile market. But few apartment buildings have the kind of sensible gentle density, the family unit sizes and the common amenities, like little courtyards with jungle gyms, that you might find in Europe. No one ever contemplated that anyone would ever desire to raise kids in an apartment. It’s just a cultural thing that has worked its way into how things are planned and designed.\n\n6) The transit system is ok by North American standards but awful by international standards. There are only two real subway lines, one stub line, one line that is permanently out of service after a derailment, and another line that was supposed to open a couple years ago but still has no date for opening. The subways go out of service frequently, sometimes for the dumbest reasons, and then it is a zoo of shuttle buses. The streetcars are nice but so slow. The buses are fine if you find yourself dreaming about riding a daily herky jerky rolling tin of sardines. They are building a lot of transit but it will take decades to get done.\n\n7) There is still a lot of cool multiculturalism and opportunities to experience different foods and cultures - one of the best things about Toronto. Increasingly though it seems to be losing the fun vibe of the 90s, when everyone celebrated each other’s backgrounds and was chill. It seems the immigration is not as broad based anymore and also people are importing a lot of their “old country” grievances here. The immigration system also kind of preys on people abroad by selling them a false fairy tale, so they end up dejected when they arrive and see how things really are.\n\n8) This one might be controversial but it’s kind of an ugly city. There’s nothing particularly of historical meaning or value. Some of the older neighbourhoods are kind of nice, but the last 25 years they have only built giant glass skyboxes, one after another. There aren’t the cool “missing middle” walkups like in NY, Chicago or Montreal (or even LA). There are very few buildings with much architectural character. Some of the buildings they deem “heritage” here are an embarrassment.\n\n9) For safety, honestly on this score I think Toronto is not bad. There are not too many real “ghettos” and it’s night and day compared to much of the US. With that said, there is more vagrancy and social issues these days, with tents and such. It’s very sad but the shelters are full, lots of homeless go into the libraries, parks and transit system. It does make it harder to enjoy these public amenities safely. It is nowhere close to Europe where you might let your kids run free around town. Canadian parents still helicopter their kids and the place again is not designed to really be safe for kids, in the same way as Europe.\n\n10) Finally, a bit of a double edged sword. Toronto had a lot of youthful energy - people coming here from all over. It is definitely not as sleepy as many parts of the world. With that said, it is becoming a bit of a transient place (minus the world class experiences like London or NY). If you are from elsewhere you might find it hard making and keeping friends. I’ve seen lots of people struggle because it’s is hard to build a strong social network. We have a very “shallow” culture here - people are extremely polite but not overly warm and hospitable. We treat one another kind of like neighbours - meaning we’d like to have a cordial, drama-free coexistence and otherwise kind of stick to ourselves.

The government still thinks with 750 dollars welfare money a human being can live in canada. Single guys have to live in dumps called rooms in basements and couples have to give away 75 percent of their combined income to rent a half decent apartment. So much for the canadian dream life! Looking back after 28 years living in canada i think i was better off living as an alien in usa than living here. I am still lucky to have a house otherwise i would have been in a mental hospital now. Dirty cities, over crowded hospitals, freezing temperatures, high taxes and many more issues. Still canada is better than 90 percent of the world but to have a little better life you have to sacrifice a lot, almost all your life.

Who in the hell would now want to immigrate to Canada ? Outrageous housing costs which consume most of your income . One has to work at least two to three jobs just to try to keep from completely drowning economically . A healthcare system which is on life support . It is next to impossible to get a doctor . Emergency waits times at hospitals can range from 4 to 24 hours . Traffic from hell in all of the major cities .... particularly Toronto , Montreal and Vancouver . The crushing cost of living . A political leader who is a complete fool who has basically destroyed the country in just 8 years . As if all of this wasn't bad enough ...... 5 months of winter from hell . Living in Canada is now an extreme struggle in every way imaginable . One will always struggle . One will always work like a dog . One will very likely fall into extreme debt in Canada just to survive . One has to pay outrageous taxes on their income leaving them with about 50% of what they actually earn after they have paid all of the combined taxes on everything that they buy or services that they use . Forget about ever being able to save money . Incomes are about about 35% less than other advanced than those in other advanced countries for the same skilled job . One will never own a home . One will never be able to start a family . One will always freeze in the winter . Life in Canada has become an absolute hell . The Canadian dream is as dead as dead can be . It is no longer a country where one can earn a decent living , own a home and live a good life . On top of all of this it has an authoritarian government which keeps passing new laws to reduce free speech and civil rights .

I'm an immigrant, since 1968.\nI do not blindly follow any political party or person.\n\nThere are many things I would like to see changed and activley involve myself.\nBecause being a Canadian, is something I am very glad to be.\n\nIf you people can find a better place to live, you should move there, as soon as possible effn can.

tried to get funding from WorkBC for a program.....the lady with an east indian accent told me they prefer to give funding for people who have disabilities and immigrants only....as a born and raised tax paying Canadian i was perplexed by the people i pay with my taxes would treat me as though i'm not even worth being treated like way less important than people who are not even paying into the program im applying for

With all my respect\nLet us face it, more than 50% of Canadians are living below the poverty line, I may say : Seniors, people with special needs, single mams, natives !!! why ?\n Is Canada a poor country !!!! Absolutely not !!!\n However, corruption and mismanagement is eating 60-70 % of Canada's revenues\n As an Example : Canadian oil is giving away to American companies almost for free in return of of a royalty fee 3-5% , so, American sell our crude for $100 per barrel but Canada gets only $5 from this $100 , same thing is happening in our mining industries : Gold , Copper, Uranium. \nBecause, Canada DOES not have enough refineries to produce its gas it needs therefore, it has to buy it from USA at a market price !!!\n Canadian electricity is more worse, Qc sells its electricity To USA at 3cents per KWH\nthen Ontario buys it from USA at market price 50-75 cent per KWH\nCanadians are ripped off : for every Dollar the government gives to a special needs or welfare candidate, the government spend $10-$20 to manage this ONE Dollar, things are more worse with natives : the government spend $20 to $30 to manage each Dollar a native candidate gets !!!!!\n Probably !!!!!! Now , You know the reasons behind Canadian 's poverty symptoms including homelessness !!!!!

I am 10th generation Canadian and plan on leaving one day too just not sure when and where to go. Affordability is not good, no special things for the long term generations that their whole family grew up here, nothing with banks, nothing with education, nothing to advance careers for myself or my children, non allied people getting in. I remember when there was stricter immigration laws. I remember when one man could support a whole family. I remember when citizens would walk on one side of the street and allow others to pass on the opposite side walking from the other direction on the streets as well as in the stores, when people had more courtesy. I remember when people could joke and not get offended, when people would stand up for one another. When a community was a community. When you could be Christian and not considered offensive. When it was safe to say bless you and not be told to shove it etc... when you did not have to witness riots on the streets and a people divided and it was not believers and non believers either as the non believers would still be peaceful in the past. It is much more than that now. Now it is you are white and racist, which I am far from but have been accused and am very baffled at that statement because never in my life would I in the past ever be accused of that. I am now like, wow what am I witnessing? I just feel something much greater is going to come, but not knowing when. ONe thing I fear is there will be an all out war and it will be whites or Christians being the target one day.

It’s been 5 years for me here and I honestly can say I have achieved nothing in my life yet. It scares me when I think I can’t return whatever my parents had invested in me. The fact is you’ll never have a good paying job in Canada being an immigrant. When I say this trust me I mean it. Most you’ll get is a minimum wage job which can make you survive the life here. Taxes are high definitely and what I feel is you’re working to make someone else’s life easier. \n(P.S: people who’ve stayed in Canada will understand who I’m implying to)\nNo one wants to be your freind, scope of socializing is zero coz mostly it’s cold round the year so everyone hardly come out, especially in Northern provinces like Yukon, Saskatchewan, Manitoba.\nHealthcare is a joke. If you feel sick and not well and you wanna see a doctor be prepared to wait for hours and hours. I once had stomach infection and I had to wait 5 hours till someone could see me. I asked for painkiller at-least so I could bear the pain but they refused that as well. You might well see someone you love dearly and with whole heart die in-front of you and you could do nothing. (I’ve experienced it myself hence saying)\nYou’re a lone survivor who’ll always keep fighting. \nThe only person who can make money here is businesses and high paid jobs which are reserved to Canadians. That’s how Canada’s job market is. Canadians’ first and if there’s something left they’ll look at you. By the amount of money people invest here they can establish a nice business back in their country itself and earn accordingly on own terms. \nMost importantly you’ll cut yourself from all emotional supports like family, freinds etc.\nI was social person back in India who liked making new freinds and memories but it’s nothing like that here. \nAnd it’s the same life, no different.\nYou wake up, dress, eat, go to work, come back, eat, sleep. No different.\nNo fun and nothing. You actually don’t live in present, you live in an expectation of a better tommorow.\nYou’ll always have a smile when you greet someone but I guarantee you no one’s gonna check on you to if you don’t start a conversation even with a simple “Hi”. Mostly Canadians are nice but again some will systematically judge you and say nothing but you’ll see in their actions, the way they’ll talk in a twisted way etc.\nYes I’m not saying that Canada’s bad or it’s no good but trust me it will take forever to build a life here especially with the number of people moving here from round the world. \nIf you’re well off financially from back home Canada’s a paradise for you. Indeed it’s a beautiful country with lots of beauty and lots to explore but remember everything comes with a cost here. Everything comes with a cost. People need to stop believing in this fake illusion and come only if they got a purpose here. The only reason why they’ll let you in the country is for money and once you’re in you’ll have to keep spending, doesn’t matter if you’re broke or whatever you have to.\nOnce I earn I’ll happily give up my PR status and go back to India as i very well know what the situation is how it’s gonna be in future.\nSo just one piece of advise to every middle class person like me, guys please invest and spend your money wisely coz we know how hard it is to earn and it’s high time Canadians start appreciating what immigrants like us do for them by burning ourselves day and night and start realizing that their past generation once came from some other part of the world as well and settled here. Being white doesn’t make you a nice Canadian, you’re actions defines you more than your words. \n90% of this country is built by immigrants and that’s how it’s gonna develop in future, so if they keep treating us the same way good luck to them ?.\nAlso a plus note to anyone thinking that Asians are stealing your jobs, go get outside and have the balls to face them and take it away from them. Staying home and ranting and abusing us that we’re taking your opportunities and blah blah isn’t gonna work. We are so successful round the world because we are hardworking, honest and respectful to everyone. Even if we’re earning minimum and barely surviving here we always make sure we’re not burden on the government or anyone else and won’t keep crying.\n\nA big shoutout to all you guys who came here in the hope of a better future but are still struggling.\nKeep hustling and you’ll reach there, if not step down and go back and start your life again on your home soil. There’s no shame in experimenting continuously rather than sitting ideally and crying about future. \n\nAll the very best my people and lots of love to you ❣️

Canada is not perfect and it has its ups and downs. As a Canadian, I still stand with my head up high and say I love this land of my birth, and I know there are many beautiful places in the world but there is none like home. Many have abused the system here, and play a major role in high crimes, high housing costs, and lack of stability. Like an ungrateful child, they forget the good things.

I moved to Canada in 2008. For me it was a pleasant experience but I suppose I was lucky. Adjusting to a new country isn't easy, but Canada offers considerably more assistance to newcomers than my country of origin. There is no perfect place in this world, and Canada isn't perfect. However being that a lot of people have an accent and come from somewhere else, you won't feel alone. I'm happy of being part, as a Canadian now, of this great nation.

I was born here and I am leaving. Moving to Chile. Bought an ocean front penthouse apartment with a pool for 289k. Got a job lined up making the same as my old canadian salary but I can afford to live. LOL ADIOS

This is good and honest review. You did not succeed because you did not go with that mindset. In my case, I was working in India as a Class I gazetted officer with Govt of India. When I got PR, I resigned from the job, just because I knew there is struggle in Canada. If I have an option, I would have definitely gone back. My Dad and my father-in-law, both Govt officers at that time, were upset with me for resigning. They were OK with me going to Canada, but did not like the idea of leaving such a good job. I did struggle initially and did survival jobs, like working in factories etc, but I DO NOT regret my decision at all. But again, it is individual's choice what is their goal. Mine was to give my kids world's perspective. Now they are free to go anywhere in the world, including India. My elder one 26 and younger one 22, have visited so many countries without taking a single penny from me. Their world view is very balanced ... they are very empathetic - thanks to Canadian education system - including school level.

If immigrants come here because they want a better life I fully support their goals. If they come here expecting Canadfa to provide them a better life, they should stay home. We as Canadians born and raised are not given anything .We work for what we get. If an immigrant expects to be provided a job upon arrival that is not realistic. Buying a house takes the average Canadian years of working and saving to afford it. What makes it any different for an immigrant to Canada?

I like how no one cares about the people that have put years and years of tax paying into the country and don't get anything out of it. \n\nBut let's shovel all our tax paying programs to be used and took advantage of by all these fresh newcomers that haven't contributed to the country and only want to change the diplomatic processes in the country as well. \n\nliterally it's an attack on Canada. \nI'm waiting for the liberal flag to put a hammer and sickle in the Canadian leaf. \n\nTruly disturbing. \nI don't see how anyone can support an alleged communist style regime. \n\nGot to bring them in for voting time. They're literally weaponized immigrants for political votes

Canadian ruling class markets the country as a bastion of freedom and equality. We immigrated, believing in that notion . Then, slowly came to realize that that belief is false .\nTruth is, canada is a fake democracy. The capitalist ruling class possesses all the rights and power in this country, and we immigrants are not seen as equal, but are being used to keep wages low . For canada to become the country it says it is , there needs to be an expansion of true democracy, into the workplace where we spend most of our time, and where the same ruling class invests very little of there's. \nSo say no to capitalism for a better canada. And yes to real democracy!

Canada bends over backwards to welcome immigrants compared to many countries- what this report fails to mention is how many immigrants simply use Canada to get citizenship and then move back to their native countries with dual citizenship that gives them and their families medical care, and a free ride back here when their own unstable countries become dangerous, or those that use Canada as a temporary safe and generous harbour before moving on. Very handy. I believe our immigration system is broken - all our Canadian governments want are more and more warm bodies to feed an insatiable tax monster, without regard to the significant social and economic disruption poorly planned immigration causes. Trudeau and his people are among the worst.

Because of Trudeau’s socialist liberal policies and the national media support of such policies,we as Canadians don’t have anyplace to go. But as an “irregular traveller” you can become a citizen of our land and go back to where you came from. As long as the Canadian taxpayer will look after you wherever you are and whatever you need. I wish as a Canadian we would have that kind of support in our own country.

The Canadian government has not updated it's Stats so what New Comers see when they look up housing prices and labour market. It still reflects 2016. They never let those coming here know how difficult it is to get their credentials recognized or the lack of housing. So a Dentist or a Director from a University end up working at Super Store. Also, as soon as they arrive they are told these short certificates that they take will get them an excellent job when in reality it's a cash grab and they don't end up getting hired anywhere as the course and school is not recognized. Totally ripping them off. Basically we have set up a system where a nurse from another Country can't even become a care aid. Ridiculous how many road blocks there are. And then of course there's the lack of housing not just the price. (I am from BC so this is coming from a BC perspective)

I had exactly the same experiences in 2002 when I went(and came back) on PR to Canada. Getting into a proper paying job in your own profession is the most herculean task in itself. The necessity of a car due to extreme harsh weather most of the months and then initially affording only a basement with mostly indoor activities during non-summer months takes a huge toll on one’s mental well being. Most of the jobs are regulated in Canada so getting an equivalent clearance and compatibility for a job is no easy task at all otherwise you’ll end up doing only sundry manual help jobs around which too aren’t available easily. I found a lot of positivities and possibilities too in Canadian life but then be prepared to sacrifice a lot for many years and then maybe you realise you have a lot more to loose than gain! So as this blogger said Go to Canada first on say a tourist visa to friends or family, stay and spend some time and money too and then make a long term decision to come and stay forever or not. But in the meantime don’t quit your job or business back in India till you come to a final outcome?

While I agree as a Canadian of settler origin, it's expensive to live pretty much anywhere comparable in the world now...As for the U.S., you might make a lot more money but they have an at-will employment system where they can fire you for any reason or no reason at all (we have much stronger labour laws) and there's no federal paid maternity leave in America whereas here women have a year paid maternity leave and a daycare subsidy now, so for me, the social benefits outweigh what the U.S. offers. Thank you for sharing your perspective; it's interesting to listen to the reasons why some people leave Canada.

Canadian Universal Health Care does vary from province to province as to what is covered since health care is a provincial responsibility and it only covers residents of the province, so if you are coming to Canada or travelling to different provinces within Canada, check your insurance to find out if you would be covered and consider getting health insurance before travelling. Otherwise you might get an unexpected bill. \n Auto insurance only cover injuries from auto accidents.

Ok Tyler you do get Canadians right at times BIT. Please review your language just for an example you use the word sorry as Canada would say it and sorry as an American one say it you guys have more of an a where there should be a no, so sorry Esso RRY and Sherry Esso are are why are different words\n\nI really enjoy your laughter. I really enjoyed learning a little titbits of stuff that you have, but are you really learning anything from us us Canadian to you enjoy to talk about. Maybe you should come visit the furthest east you can go and learn what a true Canadian is nothing beats a Newfoundlander.

I'm a dual citizen, born & raised in Canada; my mom was an American, my dad a Canadian, they met in Detroit. I'm very glad they chose to settle in Canada and raise their children here. (My American mom preferred Canada. She was a stage 3 cancer survivor who outlived all her American relatives and she believed she outlived them because of Canadian healthcare.) Although I'm eligible as a dual citizen, I would never live in the US because of the cost and lack of universal health care and the gun culture in some states. I also dislike the polarization in the USA and worry we be headed the same way. Sadly, many Americans the myth of American exceptionalism.

My husband and I lived in Columbus, Ohio for 12 years. During that time we had two babies, but we had insurance so the price tag wasn't too bad, overall. We made good friends there, all different political views but we got along well and it was great. We lived in Ohio both pre and post 9-11. I definitely noticed a difference in the growing patriotism around us. Even pre-9-11 there was a higher level of overt patriotism than I was used to in Canada. For instance, more people had flags in their yards or America-themed bumper stickers than I was used to in Canada. But post 9-11 patriotism grew immensely, and we started to feel like political views were starting to have an effect on friendships. Also, Ohio passed a conceal carry law (firearms), and I found my awareness that anyone around me might have a concealed weapon unsettling. In Canada the only guns anyone I knew owned were hunting rifles, locked up. But suddenly I had to worry about if there were guns in the houses that my children were visiting. As a Canadian, I just wasn't used to the idea of everyone having guns around. Anyway, we overall enjoyed living in Ohio. The cost of living there was reasonable, the people were friendly, and we only moved when the real estate bubble burst and my husband lost his job. We went back to Canada and, honestly, I've been relieved to be back as I watch the news and see how divided the American people have become. Even some of the friends that I had in Ohio have changed and become a lot less accepting of different opinions. It makes me scared for the future of the US, and the effect it all will have on the rest of the world.

Sooooo.. here is my own side of the story .. i am happy he said *if you are stable*… well for most ppl in a situation like mine.. jobless here in Nigeria or living on 50k salary, no connection to get good jobs, nobody willing to help, getting a canadian visa is like winning the lottery.. its hard dere but i bet we will b able to cope nd cnt complain bcos it already is hard here too(worse)… we cn start small and grow… as for the racism honestly the tribalism here too is real.. all i am trying to say is what can they throw at us that we havnt already experienced, i mean ppl in my class… so was i happy when i got my visa some months ago? 100%.. also 100% ready for the new challenge.. long story short there are two sides to being an immigrant… please correct me if i am wrong ?

I’ve been privileged to actually live and work for long periods of time in USA, Netherlands, and China…and in a variety of locations in each country. Until recently, I’d have chosen Canada without hesitation. Canada has been rocketing into an ideological cesspool rivalling China, but so has USA and the Netherlands. As for the future…if I were middle aged (as opposed to OLD!) I would go to southeast USA Fla or Tx. Not because they are ‘better ‘ right now, but I believe USA still has a chance to sort itself out but Canada is simply too screwed up and corrupt (morally, politically, socially, & financially) to recover at least in my lifetime. I was living in northern China (Harbin) when that idiot Trudeau became PM and hoped he had a chance to improve things in general. But it is clear he (or whoever is pulling his vapid strings) has been a disaster and his current opposition shows signs of being equally awful. I believe US citizens care far more for their constitution and freedoms and more aware of the perilous situation they’re in than Canadians, many of whom still believe we have a functioning health care system. All this is coming to you from a Canadian septuagenerian, highly educated by what was (decades ago) the best educational system in the Western Hemisphere. One who benefited from a wonderful health care system before it got farmed out to private corporations and became a haven for niche specialties while starving out the family physicians who were the front line for proactive family care. Can u tell I’m cranky yet? ?? Might as well laugh about it at this point. P.S. When the history of Canada is written I suspect an unabashed plagiarist will begin with the line, “It was the best of times; it was the worst of times.”

I'm Canadian. I was born here, raised here, and have lived here all my life. However, my parents are American (they came during the Vietnam war), and I have full dual citizenship. I could cross the border into the U.S., get a job, start working and live there for the rest of my life if I ever chose to do so.\n\nHowever, I will never live in the U.S. Why? The cost of healthcare insurance and healthcare in general is definitely a part of that, but another huge factor is the socio-political atmosphere down there that is very unappealing to me. Everything from politics, the gun issue, much higher violence than we have in Canada, more racism issues, the media, and from what I have observed from decades of visits to the U.S.: there just seems to be a lot more people that are on edge and hostile than I am used to compared to Canada as well. For me, the general culture and mindset is just not something I want to live amongst.\n\nThere are some things I enjoy in the U.S., and there ARE wonderful people there too. I have several friends in the U.S. (born and raised), not to mention my entire extended family is American. But for me, the U.S. is a nice enough place to visit, but it's not somewhere I'd ever want to live.\n\nNo matter what kind of trip I take to the U.S., whenever I get back home to Canada it's always like a deep sigh of relief. I feel safer. I feel more relaxed. I feel at home. No matter how good my trip was, when I set foot back on Canadian soil again I always get a feeling of humble gratitude that I live here. For me, other than the warmer weather and some of the sights the U.S. has to offer, I'm much, much happier in Canada. I feel very fortunate to live here.\n\nAs a side note, I have never found our public healthcare system here in Canada to be lacking whatsoever. Any healthcare I, or anyone else I know that has received any, has always been prompt, of excellent quality, and reassuringly delivered in a professional manner.\n\nAs an example, in 1994, my father had a seizure and it was discovered that he had a benign brain tumour that had to be removed. Not even a week later, he was booked for his surgery and he had his procedure. He was operated on by one of the top two neurosurgeons in North America at the time, he spent three weeks in recovery at the hospital, and he had months of rehab afterward. About 2 weeks later, he had another seizure (the last one he ever had), he stayed in another hospital for an additional two weeks.\n\nHowever, all of what I just mentioned, and I mean ALL of it, was paid for by our public healthcare system. All he had to do was show his healthcare card and sign a release form for his surgery, and that was it. Nothing more. There were literally ZERO bills, no insurance companies, no paperwork, no phone calls, and ZERO hassle. Nothing.\n\nAnd no, our family was NOT rich or privileged either. Just an average middle class family. However, my dad's neurosurgeon told us his surgery and all the months of care he received afterward would have cost $180,000 (in 1994!), and our family would have been out on the street if it wasn't for our healthcare system. My dad also had a very minor heart attack in 2007 which didn't require surgery, and he didn't have to pay a dime or do anything else other than show his healthcare card for that either. Since those two events, my father has lived a healthy, normal life thanks to our public healthcare.\n\nIn Canada, EVERYONE receives that kind of care, regardless of if they are a billionaire or they are homeless. Because that's the moral and ethical thing to do, and is just one of the many reasons why I plan on staying here.

A few years ago, I knew an American, living in NZ who would consistently pass himself off as a canadian(even before tRump) which should tell you about how Americans are viewed overseas. He didn't sound very Canadian I have to say.\nOh and most health care systems are survivable if you don't get sick or have any accidents. That's really not an endorsement of the system.

11 years ago a trip to the ER in Texas cost close to or more than the cost with insurance than a the cost for an ER visit in NS (for those out of country who are not covered by our provincial program). \n\nWe would pay $50 copay at the ER, then over. The next few days we would receive a bill for the physician, then from pharmacy, then from the facility, then from X-ray, etc, every separate department would have its own portion. \n\nAnd then there was the unpleasant surprise when the doctor who saw you in the ER was not an “in network” doctor even though the hospital was “in network”. Our insurance paid 70% of (approved) in network costs, but only 50% of out of network costs. Keep in mind that “in network” hospitals and providers had lower negotiated rates with the insurance companies. Which meant you would have coverage of 70% of a negotiated lower rate for in network but out of network was 50% of a higher rate.\n\nMy neighbours were lovely people. The culture was much different than I expected. The gun culture really hits you in face. For the first while it seemed to be so obvious - signs on pharmacies, hospitals, and schools that state that guns were not allowed, even with a conceal and carry permit. Very quickly, that became “normal”….\n\nFood was amazing. Gas was cheap. Politics was everywhere. Christian mega churches were everywhere - along with some very vocal overbearing people who force their beliefs and opinions on anyone who is near them. \n\nI was surprised with the number of people who felt it was appropriate to discuss religion, politics, and money with virtual strangers. A lot of very personal questions as well. I am guessing it is the difference between what is considered extremely rude in Canada, vs what is just a regular question in the US (or that area of Texas). \n\nAnd another very different thing was how hardly anyone swore. I had the bottom drop out of a bad carrying glasses when I was in San Antonio, the glasses broke, and I said “Shit.” I have never seen so many heads turn towards me. Most of the females looked at me with complete disgust and a lot of the males laughed. I expect that the American who heard me swear, were thinking I was the rudest person. One of my children’s friends was from Australia and when their mom came over one day, she said something to the effect of “so glad you are Canadian” because she sis not have to worry about offending me if she said fuck. That was a relaxing afternoon.

My Canadian brother and his wife left Canada and moved to the U.S. when they were in their early 40's. They prospered and grew their careers for 15 years before deciding to return to Canada. In Canada they would have been considered politically Conservative and religiously as far-right Evangelical Christians, but they found their American neighbors to be off the charts in both categories. They remained in Canada for only 3 years before packing; up and moving back to the U.S. Their main reason was monetary. My brother's wife, who is a doctor, paid $27 thousand dollars less, per year in income tax in the U.S.A. Their 6,000 square foot luxury home in the U.S. cost them about $700K dollars and the equivalent in Canada was $2.4 Million dollars. Since his wife is a doctor, the U.S. healthcare system was not an issue for them, because as a doctor, she had the ultimate American healthcare insurance paid by her employer. They admitted that they had healthcare that was superior to that held by 98% of other Americans. I suspect they will remain in the U.S. for the future. Over the years they have adopted the unique American language and accent, so they now live unnoticed and unrecognizable as Canadians. lol

The problem with Canadian health care is a lack of doctors. It's not that Canadians don't become doctors, it's that many doctors move to the US because they can make more money there. \nI live in a small town that has a large hospital and it has pretty short wait times and the hospital has lots of space. We could easily accommodate overflow from surrounding communities, but we have a lack of staff to do so. So there are a couple wings of the hospital that are completely empty as a result. The hospital itself is well maintained, new looking, lots of art on the walls and mood lighting. It's a very pleasant place to visit. Every time I've gone in for an emergency, they've been able to get me into surgery within a few hours, but booking a surgery for something that's not life threatening takes about 3-4 months. But that's because they have to leave space just in case there are emergencies that come in. With more staff, they could easily cut wait times in half.

Hi Tyler ~ As this is a “younger” demographic…I was wondering if you could do a comparison with an older demographic - such as the who go to Florida and Arizona, as well as, a few other places, such as Palm Springs during the colder months. If they happen to be there for Christmas ~ CANUCKS (what Canadians refer to another Canadian) usually gather, close a few blocks of the neighbourhood and have Christmas dinner, then there’s Bonfire Night with fireworks in November (for the NEWFOUNDLANDERS that go to Florida), New Years celebrations is another. I could go on, as I have family that live 3/4 of the year in Canada and go to their southern homes for 3-4 max months of the winter. It would definitely be interesting on their perspective, as they can travel and interact with all demographics of society…including the police…as well as, their experiences with ** in the USA!\n\nCheers??☺??

I am a South Sudanese Canadian who pretty much grew up in Kenya before travelling abroad. Life in Canada is not easy.. especially after Trudeau came to power.\nI make pretty good income in IT, but i pay like 30% in taxes...30% of my money is gone. I dont see it. I know others who pay more than me in taxes. The grocery is also high, as are the other bills. Rent is really high. In my city, an average house costs 800k. Even my cousins in the US are shocked at the prices of homes in Canada. My rent is much higher than the mortgages being paid by my cousins in the US. In places like Toronto or Vancouver, it is worse.\n\nI went back to Africa last time and saw so many opportunities, that i made my decision yo transition slowly back home. \n\nThe problem i find with most Africans is thinking of finding jobs in the government or private sector. If you are a Kenyan, or Ethiopian or South Sudanese, etc, think of creating jobs instead.\n\nThe opportunities for entrepreneurship in Africa are endless because alot of the problems in society have not yet been resolved. You dont have to have alot of capital to start farming for example. So many Africans have access to free ancestral lands that they can farm and make money from. But many want to spend time in the cities instead. A change of mindset is needed.

Thanks Lynn for bringing this up. I am a Kenyan living in Canada. You highlighted the most important thing- due diligence. There are a lot of people that come here with a promise of a better life and the notion is that it’s instant. I want to confirm to you that it’s better life, but it’s not instant. You have to put in the work and prove your worth. You have to gain Canadian experience to get a decent job. Also be ready to go back to school and upgrade your skills. There are jobs here zinaitwa Trades. These are the jobs that we don’t value at home but pay amazingly well here. Construction, Electricians, Plumbers, Mechanics, Carpentry, Welding, Hairdressers, Tailors.. Those are very valued skills here- if you can invest in learning these trades but pia ukikuja hapa you have to convert your certs to Canadian ones by doing an exam or going back to school . If you are into office jobs, make sure you have market relevant skills that align to this country. Be ready to embrace the digital revolution and mpende hesabu. Accounting is very much valued here. The secret is be ready to start from the bottom, be ready to upgrade yourself, be ready to work like you’ve never worked before… You will make it eventually .. Mungu mbele! \nI am confirming that we are going through a recession here and as per the market trends, it’s only going to get worser until we get to a point of stabilization. The housing market is crazy, food costs and gas (fuel)costs are off the roof .. it’s not easy. So if you have a good job in Kenya, hold onto it for now until things get better ( due diligence /research) .. Make sure you have the right visa that allows you to work here. That visitors visa theory is not working anymore. \nOverall Canada is a good country with lots of opportunities but it’s not for the faint hearted. \nLastly, be prepared for the harsh winters and days of severe loneliness- Si lakini ni life? Kila nchi ina challenges zake. God bless!

Happy birthday Lynn! I’m so happily amazed you touched on this subject. I am commenting from Canada and seeing people getting frustrated coming on visitor visa to look for work/convert visa to work permit. Even employers with LMIA approval are asking for work permits. Anyone coming to Canada should preferably secured a job or school before coming here. It is so so so expensive and jobs aren’t easy to get without Canadian credentials or experience . Any Canadian credentials including a certificate will up your game in getting a job. Meanwhile while in school you can now work unlimited hours but ensure you stay in school and finish. Be careful with agents promising jobs . It is hard here but once you get into the system hard & smart work pays. And getting into the system can only be done front door. What one pays an agent for visitor visa, you might as well do a one year certificate that’s approved for post graduate work permit. Less headache and better opportunities. When a deal sounds too good think twice- agents are really smooth talkers and super salespeople from what I’m told by those coming here through them. Be wise….I have no regrets coming here I wish I did it earlier as I’d have gained more through longer school options in my youth ?.

It's hard if you move through the legal paths work or as a student. It's going to alot harder trying to immigrate as a tourist and trying to claim refugee status or converting to a work permit. I don't think people should blame Canada or the Canadian govt. if they are already breaking immigration laws. People need to do their due diligence. At the end of the day an agent is only interested in what's they are earning from you

Am a kenyan Canadian and living in canada is the best decision I have ever taken. Lot of kenyan are paying agencies to come to canada through visit permit. People should blame agencies who promise them jobs not canada government . When you come to canada through visit permit you need to change to work permit or study permit. Actually there are thousands of kenyan who have come through visit permit and they are claiming refugee status. Canadian Government is doing its part by giving all claimed refugees shelter and give the money for upkeep. When you have visit permit you can't work in canada but you can convert it to work permit which is not easy but an expensive process. You need to get a company that can process you lMIA that labour market Impact assessment . You need skills to get a company to apply you Lmia or uende China ya maji you pay Indians who have companies in kenya $30-$40 to apply for you lmia. Or you can convert your visit permit to study permit and universities here are damn expensive. Getting a Canadian to marry you for status is very hard. In short am trying to say if you do not come through work permit or landed immigrants life wil be tough use the money you are paying agencies to start something in your country. They are so many opportunities in canada if you have the right papers or status. As for me am a happy single mom who as accomplished alot here and I love canada .

Same here in Montreal used to love this city still do but post C19 everything changed like everywhere housing crisis, politics, the cultural center it user to be changed maybe its just looking at it now at the start of my 30s compared to when i moved here from Europe and Central Africa at the start of my 20s. Met friends i have for life, got great professional opportunities lived in nice places great food in the city. Now everything is just super expensive now and i know toronto is must be ever crazier. Im considering moving back to France or Switzerland to be closer to my family and friends and also be close to Gabon easier to visit than here constantly taking 4 plains round trip everytime i go back home. After losing my father last year getting divorced 3 years ago i think my time here is done. 14yrs here i became an adult here had amazing experiences, became a canadian citizen but its just not the same anymore. Time for a new adventure somewhere else. We used to live well even back as a student on minimum wage, now with a better career good salary we’re struggling. Breaks my heart seeing this all over canada.