It's time for me to start focussing on our letter of intent (especially as I have been irritated and let down by my employers *again*; encouragement as if any were needed... ) so i was wondering if anyone had any tips or advice? I know quite a lot of people here have done the NS CI route so I'd love to hear any thoughts. How much did you write? What did you focus on - your keenness to live in the county? Your plans for the future? What great people you are? What you're looking to achieve? How you'd be a good addition to the community? Should I be realistic or gushing? Should I mention the things we want to leave behind in the UK or just talk about Canada? I'm not sure if there's one area I should emphasise most, or if people just put in a bit of everything.

All advice gratefully received!

Hi, sorry I cant help you as we have not yet gone down that route but I am sure jimmydean may be able to shed some light.
Good luck!

Hi

Here are some pointers from when we completed ours

• no more than 2 side of A4
• Brief overview of who you are, spouse/partner, children
• Overview of your job skills and spouses and years experience
• Why you want to move to nova scotia
• why you have chosen that particular region linked to the RDA
• The research that you have carried out to date in respect of the area
• Research in respect of work opportunities/leads/people/feedback
• Details of all people you are connected with when/how etc
• Any recce trips you have carried out details
• Details of spare time, volunteering opportunities you have considered/researched
• Your short, medium and long term plans should you move here permanantly

Hope this helps

Nikki has covered that very well, but I would add:
* Don't gush about NS - just speak plainly as to why you think it's right for you, and why you are right for it.
* Don't give details as to why you wish to leave the UK - it's not their business and they probably aren't interested.
* DO make sure you paint a positive and realistic picture of all the things you could do for your chosen community in NS, and how you will contribute to the social fabric.

Then cross all appendages, pray to deities and wait...

Ah Nikki, you are such a complete resource of information.

Thanks all, *hugely* useful stuff! I feel I can have a go at writing after that
Am I right in thinking that the letter is for the RDA, not for the main NS immigration people? Or does it go to all parts of the process?

It will go to NS immigration as part of your application but the RDA may ask to see it on your trip

I think Nikki has covered everything there!!

As Adrian says, don't mention why you want to leave the uk - you need to be positive and show that you have a genuine commitment to Nova Scotia and the area you are looking at settling in. Make sure you demonstrate what you can contribute to the community economically, employment skills wise, volunteering etc!

The letter goes to Nova Scotia Immigration with your application

Good Luck