Is it true that Canada has an immigration quota it doesn't meet?

[Zhade]

I'm planning the move (already applying to satellite companies up there, and I qualify as a skilled worker), and I've heard that Canada relies on immigration to maintain a steady population. I've also heard that this quota is not met these days. Is this true?

I will likely have a reasonably easy time moving (money and a job are the only issues), but I'm curious: just how difficult is it to move to Canada and stay?

I've read the official immigration site, and a bunch of other information, but I'd like to ask Canadians and especially expatriates what the on-the-ground reality is for going to Canada and being allowed to stay. Is it really hard? Not so hard?

I'm thinking about the friends I'm leaving behind who want to come and have fallen on hard times due to our monstrous government. Any observations are welcome and appreciated.

[achtung_circus]

1. I'll get back to you,

on edit: I can't speak for her willingness to advise but iverglas was an immigration lawyer. A PM to her or a search using her name and Canadian immigration as parameters can't hurt.

Check the <http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/index.html> site for eligibility.

Just my 2 cents, but skills are what we're looking for.

[Nordmadr]

2. I had my eligibility analyzed by

Abrams & Krochak, Canadian Immigration Lawyers in Toronto. They do free assessments based on an application you can fill out online. I currently work as GIS Analyst (Geographic Information Systems). This is a technical computer field that appears to meet "skilled" worker qualifications, since they gave me a positive assessment. I've not pursued it further yet myself, but you may wish to look into it there.

As far as I can tell, money to pay for the immigration process (a few thousand dollars per person), a desirable skill, and the ability to land a job are the primary requisites.

http://www.akcanada.com

Olaf

[Maple]

3. Yes, very true...all fields

Alberta has just asked immigration for thousands more. Everything from drivers to pipe fitters to welders.

We're having to up our quota because we need the skilled people.

It's getting worse, as baby boomers are starting to retire. My province ...Ontario....needs thousands of professors alone.

And everyplace in the country needs medical people. Aging doctors are retiring, and of course the country is growing. Nurses are in short supply...anesthesiologists...everything.

[Zhade]

4. Too bad I'm not in medicine!

I'm in satellite broadcasting - not exactly the most vitally needed type of skilled worker, I'd imagine.

[Maple]

5. Most of our broadcasting

is done by satellite. It's a big country.

Welcome to Canada eh?

[Zhade]

6. I fervently hope to hear those words in person soon.

NT!