UK to Canada: Beginning to End

• Monday 25 May 2009 - Completing the paperwork

I suppose a good a place to start as any is at the beginning, which in our case is the considerable paperwork that goes with the territory of emigrating to Canada. It’s always a bonus trying to remember dates and addresses from the 14 different Army units and 12 homes which we've lived at over the past 20 odd years. I can see getting the Police checks done (if they accept us) is going to be interesting. This 'dream' materialised after spending a wonderful year posted to Alberta as part of my job in the British Army. With only 2 years to push until I hit the big 40 and they pension me off, the prospects of starting a new life in UK Civvie Street isn't exactly looking like a rosy future filled with golden opportunities. The thinking is if we have to starts a new life from scratch, i.e. new job, new home etc then why not do it in another country. So here we are at the very beginning with the 2 year countdown clock ticking away until June 2011 when, if all goes to plan, 'D' Day will be upon us. Here's what will hopefully be our last UK home: Being the 'careful' type (not to be confused with tight-fisted) I didn't fancy employing the services of a 'Representative' so it was Shanks' pony today. Anyway, it's not exactly rocket science so after many hours tapping away at the keyboard there's a pile of papers ready to sign.  I can now visit the bank tomorrow to sort out how I muster up a Canadian cheque to the tune of C$1,700 (isn't it great having 4 children). For those that are interested, I am applying under the Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) scheme as a Heavy-Duty Mechanic (7312). My Army trade is Mechanical Engineer so it lends itself to the background. I don't have an offer of employment yet but it is early days - for now, I'm more concerned with getting the application process on the go. I have applied to enlist in the Canadian Forces (CF) in the same trade as I am now - the application went in a couple of moths ago and there is initial interest. The CF is now assessing my background and qualifications (called a Prior Learning Assessment) to see if I have something to offer. I should hear back within a couple of months as to whether they're going to offer me a place or not. Anyway, next stop the bank…..

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