CANADA IMMIGRATION NEWS AND TIPS

Dear Ms Powell: I have been seeing a Canadian woman for the past three years and we are planning to get married. However, because of the current laws in Jamaica, we can't get married in Jamaica. My partner sent me an invitation letter so that I could visit her and get married in Canada, but I was refused a visitor's visa as they said that I didn't have enough ties to Jamaica. I am a professional in Jamaica with a good job and I'm able to take care of myself financially, so I was surprised that I was refused since I have a USA visa. I just wanted to be with my partner so we can get married and she can sponsor me. It's getting to be very difficult as we spend so much money for her to visit on weekends as she only gets two weeks off at a time. Can you tell me how we can get married so that she can sponsor me to go to Canada? You know what it is like for same-sex couples in Jamaica. I look forward to hearing from you. - B.N. Dear B.N.: I'm sorry to ...

Dear Ms Powell, My family and I would like to live in Canada. I spoke to a consultant, who recommended that I go back to study at a college and then apply for permanent residence. I'm concerned about the cost of studies when both my husband and I have a degree and have four years' work experience in our respective fields. I have friends who have got through without having to go to school. Which programme is best - the Federal Skilled Workers (FSW) programme, the Federal Skilled Trades (FST), or the Provincial Nominee Programme (PNP)? Is it really better to apply to study rather than apply straight to get permanent residence in Canada? I'm confused, please help. BF Dear BF, There are several programmes available to professionals to become permanent residents of Canada. The most common options are under the FSW programme, the FST programme, Canadian Experience Class, and the PNP. Individuals who have a minimum of one year work experience in professional occupati...