Don’t migrate to Canada in mad rush and lose everything: Immigration specialist

 By Kurulu Koojana Kariyakarawana   

Do not migrate to Canada in a mad rush and lose the valuable life you have already built-up in Sri Lanka for just following the herd instinct and leaving the country for petty decisions, said a Sri Lankan specialist in Canada immigration.   

Maj. Gen. (Dr.) Hermenagild Lakshman David (Retd.), who is currently domiciled in Toronto, Canada made these remarks during his brief visit to Sri Lanka last week, especially to educate the masses who are presently attempting to vacate the country for greener pastures.   

Addressing a seminar held free of charge for prospective migrants to Canada in Colombo last week Maj. Gen. David said Canada being the second largest country and comparatively less populated than some parts of the world, offers a great opportunity to people.   “Not only having one of the most advanced educational systems, but also infrastructure development, the country is open to those seeking employment who may initially obtain a work permit and subsequently be offered permanent residency. Canada usually welcomes over 400, 000 new immigrants each year to support its economic and social prosperity. This applies not only to skilled workers but other job categories as well, in addition to accepting refugees,” he said.   
Most professions and trades in Canada are regulated by certifications and licences. For example, if you are pursuing Financial Services, a Canadian securities course certification can help secure a job. Healthcare is another regulated career, which is presently very much in demand.   

Provinces have the right to offer jobs after pursuing accreditation. Provinces vary on their demand for healthcare workers and have different credential programmes. There is also a dire need for trade workers throughout Canada. Each province and territory assesses trade workers with unique criteria. Careers like dispatcher and truck driver are always in demand and can help you settle fast as a newcomer with a well-paid wage.   

Maj. Gen. David joined the Sri Lanka Army in 1980 and served as an Army Engineer for more than three decades and had served as Commanding Officer at the Sri Lanka Military Academy.   He was also the first Deputy Vice Chancellor of the Kotelawala Defence University. On retirement, he migrated to Canada and completed with merit pass in Immigration Consultant Diploma and works along with his spouse Subodhini David (LL M) Barrister at SUBO DAVID Law Professional Corporation.