[Auld Yin]

I've spent a bit of time on this forum and seem to keep running into threads about families moving to Canada...So I thought it might be best start a thread about my situation.

I am a mid 20's male Chartered Accountant (From Australia) looking to move to Toronto in 2011.

I'd love to hear some stories from people who were in a similar position and how they went, it's quite daunting

I have a few questions:

1. From a employers perspective is there any difference between a 2 year working visa (The one available to Australians) and a skilled workers visa?
As a CA your occupation is on THE LIST so you would qualify for a PR visa making the 2 year working visa is a moot point in your case.

2. What is the current job market (Finance sector) like and how much savings (In terms of months salary) should I really budget before heading over?
Accountants are always in demand. As a single you will require to prove funds of $11,000 approximately upon your entry. More would be desirable.

3. I am tossing up between Toronto and Vancouver, considering my above situation which one would I probably be more suited to.
A conundrum here. Toronto is the financial centre of the country so more jobs available. Coming from OZ Vancouver would probably suit you better, weather wise.

4. How expensive are inner city apartments? Can you get away without having a car?
In the inner cities a car is not necessary. Both cities have good transportation systems. An decent apartment would be $1500-$2000.

5. Is there a large young expat population in Toronto?
That's a length of string question. In all my reading I haven't noticed any expat associations being mentioned but there is an ANZAC club Tranzac - Toronto Australia New Zealand Club - Location

6. How welcoming are Canadian's to expat? (Australians in particular)
Canada is the most multicultural country, particularly Toronto, in the world so answer is yes. Just make sure you're not one of the infamous rude Aussies, lol.

Thanks!

Just one thing further. I assume you know you will require to have your Australian qualifications converted to Canadian standards and you should read:-
Home | Chartered Accountants of Canada

 

[Auld Yin]

Just one thing further. I assume you know you will require to have your Australian qualifications converted to Canadian standards and you should read:-

Thank's for your reply.

Sorry can you explain the difference between the Skilled workers and working holiday visa?
Firstly there are no age limits on visas for skilled workers and much more restrictive as to employers having obtained an LMO. On a working holiday visa one can work anywhere one likes without pre-arranged employment

Surely the working holiday visa is easy to get? (Timeframe wise)
Absolutely easier to get.

Do employers view them differently? I'm just scared that working holiday visa's may be viewed poorly as the candidate isn't expected to hang around long term.

It's not a matter of employers viewing them differently. The "skilled" visa is more for people immigrating here whereby the "holiday" visa is temporary and employers do not require to complete Gov't applications.