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Been in Canada for approximately 25 years. I can say that the effect that Canada has on a legal immigrant is neither here nor there. If you can make lemonade out of any lemon you’re dealt, you will thrive in Canada (and anywhere else where your efforts are not overwhelmingly quashed by corruption, blatant racism or other forms of segregation). \n \nLynn, I was a lecturer in Kenya, went back to school here in Canada after wallowing in culture shock the first year, then circled back to teaching in college again after an arduous journey in school, but this time in a different field. \n \nAfter becoming a single mother of four kids, I had to also hustle on the side to build a small business empire along my life’s ladder. Partnership with God, goal clarity, the get-up-and-go, and relentlessness truly work. It isn’t the size of the dog but the fight in the dog that does it, regardless of where you live. \n \nThe starting point for a new immigrant can be very low due to the weather, unpreparedness and culture shock, but if you know that the only way is up, and are self-motivated, those challenges are soon behind you as the tests become testimonies. \n \nBy comparison people have more human rights here regardless of their status. The wheels of justice grind slow but they do grind fine. Women and children have equal rights with men. Politicians are mostly there to serve not necessarily to exploit. \n \nOpportunities for self-development galore - including being trained to become employable and going to school at any age (sometimes for free while you are still at the bottom of the ladder). There are food banks so you never go hungry if it came to that. The disabled are better treated with dignity. \n \nThere are prolonged parental leaves for both moms and dads for up to 18 months. Commensurate with earnings, parents under certain thresholds are given Canada child tax benefits and other supplements for each child under 18 years of age. \n \nDepending on the number of kids and their ages, the money can add up handsomely. Not to mention that there’s no tuition to pay for primary and high school students. Tuition fees start at post-secondary level. \n \nTo see a doctor is free as it is paid for by taxes. It the meds that you and/or your insurance pays for. Some medical equipments may be paid for by either or both the individual/insurance and the government depending on eligibility. \n \nBy and large, there’s cleanliness of common spaces. There’s also safety and relative peace. At least wherever I have lived, I can’t tell you how many times I forgot to lock my door with impunity. \n \nThere’s a lot more stressful work here in my opinion, but like you said Lynn, systems work a lot more efficiently and effectively. \n \nThe elephant in the room is the extra hard work that those living abroad must put in to fulfil expectations back home. Also known as black tax, the overwhelming financial dependency of relatives on their diasporan loved ones places undue stress on many here, especially because there are no short cuts to getting money here. \n \nAnyway, Lynn, thanks for such a great topical issue you’ve shared. I have to stop here as I have written a lot. Hope this helps someone on this forum. \n \nAnd last but not least, you’ll be proud to hear that even though Canada has been good to me, my face may now be turning towards home to see how I can be of use to mama Africa. Super excited!

I am sorry but at least from my experience of living in the U.S, the customer service is pretty terrible, not even close to being excellent

The government at least this one is not democratic

Exactly same, I am experiencing in Melbourne. I also have sister here with her family so I didn’t face the Initial problems like you but all the other problems which you faced, I am experiencing the same. My biggest mistake was that I didn’t take decision like you of coming back and after 3 months, my job in India was given to someone else. Now I have no other choice but to stay here for some years so that I will earn at least some money before returning.

Lucky you , you did not stay there in the winter or else you would have committed suicide ??.. only job in the winter is to pee come back & watch TV & blow every day snow from the drive way … yes every day ? but I do not live in Canada, I have many family members living there I keep going there as well , I am settled in the US .. but the so called problems of yours in Canada is the same here in the US as well but for me these are the things I love love out here …. Particular about timings , no one comes home without calling , every one is of same standard, kids don’t have to study like donkeys day & night … ( for what ) … out here to have a RV, a boat , suv , saloon car , a bike for summer ride are within every ones reach … at-least that was all my dream … I live in a city yet I have a private 1/2 acre private plot whereas in Mumbai I will have to be a film star ?? here there is no hanji hunji .. I hated the most …out here anywhere we go we take our token number & we are looked after accordingly lastly out here in the west the most amazing thing & the most important thing in life is .. let’s say your business is lost or your job is gone your neighbour’s don’t care you can start from scratch again .. In India one has to commit suicide ????

Thank you so much at least someone talk about reality it really hurts when Indians abuse punjabi and say khalistani etc on online platforms but they don’t know why we are asking for Khalistan and we all are still Indians ❤

Good for you, I despise this city. Nastiest people I've ever encountered, having lived in 3 countries a decade at least each and travelled about 30 more. There's something really rotten about ppl in Toronto.

I live in Montreal Canada and as a refugee from Rwanda I have no other options but to stay. \nFor those who are from peaceful countries in Africa and well educated who make at least equivalent of $2000 in Africa, please do not come here.\nFor example: it's not easy to buy a house if you're single, you need to be married to be able to afford a house. Let alone buying a house, renting isn't also easy, the cheapest now for families is $1000.\nLet's say you make $20 per hour, this salary will never get you anywhere unless you're married or have other sources of income. You need a second job and the more you earn the more you're taxed.\nEven those high skilled people can only live comfortably only as working couple because as a single high skilled person even if you make more than $100k a year for you to live a good life here isn't easy. Yes of course, it's still better than the most african countries, but for those doing well in Africa already don't come here, come when you're hardly earning a living in Africa. \nNB: People who make $100k in Canada are less than 11% of the whole population. That's 4257000 million out of 38.7 canadians. The rest are considered low income generating workers who hardly afford things.

At least they didn't shoot them.

Struggle is there without maid and house help initially but if have the willpower it will work out ,you at-least got job within a few months if u had did some courses it would work out . I got job only after an almost a year. I never wanted to stay in basement and it’s very cold and u will get sick We need both husband and wife to get things done and manage things .Thats where u missed out on. U at-least had relatives there we don’t have anyone here . I had my kid also here alone in hospital no help. I am not saying it’s easy nothing will be delivered on a platter here but it’s better than India freedom, lifestyle,groups community and more over value for life.Try again if u want and get a condo or apartment at-least next time.I always loved winters and once u know how to dress and what precautions to take winter is very beautiful. So if anyone is coming to Canada please be open minded and keep in my mind it will take at least 3-5 years to settle in a different country and you can lead a happy life here.

Settled hone ko at least 1se 2 saal lagte hai madam...

Struggle needed at least 5-7 years even fir students. PR directs need to take up lot of challenges especially for jobs. And hidden discrimination exists even in Canada. In India if you got your own house or ancestral house and a steady monthly income of INR 75K , then it's just foolish idea to go to Canada. Middle East is tax free and more safe, no drug menace.

Brother very good story on Punjab,but not only Punjab all India wants Good laws on Implementation on Labour, Good working hours, Good working wages and Action against those Industries Owner and Bad politicians who looted our India continuesly, And Last but least We Proud on Punjab and our Punjabis those give our Lives for Our Country means India

Respect brother at least someone speaks truth

Venezuelans been in dire straits at least 10 yrs

At least someone talk about exactly situations

After listening to your views i feel that it's a big stupidity that you left Canada.\nYou should go back at least for the sake of the children.\nPeace of mind is more important than money.\nDrugs are more in India in fact worse.\nWrong decision

This is my 4th year in Canada ?? at least I thank God I got my Permanent Residence Card ? even if my bank account balance is 1,100$?

Thanks Lynn at least it was an eye opening information. Am longing to immigrate to Canada but now i need to do a better research before i weep or rejoice.

Good evening ma'am, I just stumbled on your video weldone God is your strength please and please ma, fine time to rest I heard or believe that an international is supposed to work 20hrs per week or isn't that true please I stand to be corrected, please ma'am your health come first, please if you can work for just 20hr a week please don't go overboard please. I pray that the little we do God almighty will multiply it in abundance for us, please am particularly about your health, your family needs you as much as you want a better future for them, fine time to go the hospital and also have at least 50% rest, remember work is important, your study is important, your family is important most importantly your sound health is important, am sorry if sound somehow please forgive me am just looking out for you.

I mean, unless you are earning at least over 300k household income, don't even think about moving to Toronto.

I hate this country with everything inside of me can’t wait to be back to Nigeria at least I was happy

Living expenses are high when you compare it to Kshs. We also have to keep in mind that they are paid in euros. Plus if you have the right papers i doubt you will not be able to 'survive' at the very least while in Kenya my friend you can stay for 6months without any job coming your way.\nBut overall, things are hard everywhere

If people can also avoid the big towns the better. \nAt least have a skill and papers.

Most Canadians who live outside Toronto consider it to be the dirtiest, most violent, least friendly city in the country.

Toronto is only for the rich. As long as you’re making at least 6 figures.

The problem actually isn't inflation, at least here in Kenya. Currently inflation went down from 7.3% to 6.8% . The elephant in the room, call it over taxation. Eventually, things will balance out because really, there is so much a government could tax it's citizen before equilibrity is achieved. I opine that we all calm down, relax. Things will fall into place. Just hold on. I'm not one to give hope, but on this issue I'm sure, a utopian settlement is near.

This is what we try and tell people, but they argue and say we don’t we don’t wish them well, yet we are here. Our circumstances are very different. If you have a job in Kenya and you ca pay your bills please stay back, if you want to relocate having money is important at least $10,000! It’s that serious

To those of us who were planning to go to canada at least we have been enlightened that we must have some skills in a certain field before we go but not trusting these agents in kenya.Thanks lyn for the information you have saved me.

At least The Systems there are working. Unlike in Kenya,High Taxation, Pathetic Healthcare ,high school fees. Where is the Heavy Tax Kenyans are paying for?What is that money being Spent on?

I just think there is alot of problems where kenyans are concerned\n\n1. Rely on fake agents and their short cuts. There are accredited agents from developed countries who source in africa and asia but not the other way round. These are sometimes listed on official government websites. \n\n2. Don't fully undertand skills. They think acdemic papers and some random corporate jobs equals skills. Lets call skills, trades and ICT expertise; carpenters, plumbers, nurses, teachers have a better chance than some bank manager in Kenya. \n\n3. Rely too much on youtubers with random clips on things they need to train in like nursings and such over a short period then land in Canada and get a job. It doesn't work like that. First of all, has canada said they need Kenyan nurses? Immigration in developed countries is based on policy. So even when they give visas, they know what they are doing and who they are letting in and for what jobs. \n\n4. Do not go to official government websites to confirm random research and advice\n\n5. Are still dishonest and think it's about trickery and knowing people. Well, not always. At least be able ans willing to yo flip burgers and clean toilets if it comes to that!?\n\n6. There is no affordable housing in developed countries. They too are struggling on that front.\n\n7. Last but not least, kurukwa na host..yes, betrayal from a Kenyan and that of Judas Isacriot ni bumper to bumper\n\nLynn, harusi tunayo ama tulikuwa nayo? ?????

I've lived in Toronto for almost 20 years, and I can't wait to get out. The plan is to move somewhere else in the spring, just figuring out where. Toronto now breaks my heart-- you see people seriously struggling everywhere, and it's hard to see it in contrast with the opulent wealth that much of the city has. We're lucky to be in a rent-controlled apartment and we've been here for over a decade, and there's no way we'd find anything even remotely similar here now (the apartment we live in would go up at least $1000 if we leave). The safety is also an issue- I live in a fairly busy area that used to be extremely safe (I used to walk home alone at midnight in high school) and now I rarely leave my apartment after dark. There's very angry, erratic people, many on substances, and I've had some rough encounters already. And don't get me started on public transport.... My sister saw someone almost get randomly pushed into the subway tracks yesterday, and obviously that doesn't get reported. It's worse than people think, and it's only gonna get more horrible once winter hits.

Everyone stop being stupid political correctness, if you ever deal in depth with South Americans, especially Mexicans, then you will understand that how they will destroy this country. This is not racist, because it's not about skin color, it's about education, ideology and influence of growing environment, no one will discriminate Michael Jordan, right? Anyone who objects to this view, go to those countries and stay there for at least 2 month before you open your mouth, you will realize how bad they treat their own people, then how can you expect them to treat you well? The shit in the video was all because the Democrats wanted more votes.

Some of them were smiling or laughing? I saw at least 2. Are you kidding me? This is what happens when lawlessness is accepted! This is how much they respect America!\n\n\nCLOSE THE BORDER AND ENFORCE THE LAW!

Alberta has changed too. It's a depressing place and people are becoming more aggressive, self absorbed and careless. \nFor Edmonton being a Capital City, it is dirty, smelly and has a major increase with crime and drugs. Calgary is right behind Edmonton with crime and gangs but at least it is nicer looking city. \n\nOur family is making plans to move out of Canada because this is not the way we live our lives. We are stangers to our own country. The place we've called home since our DOB is not a home anymore. ?.

This comment section and video are so pessimistic. Generalizing about an entire city removed from the context of all other comparable surrounding cities.\n\nIt’s not the city that is awful, it’s how legal systems in place enable property owners and landlords to collectively screw the citizens of the city. It’s how corporate greed and income inequality disproportionately affect the least fortunate.\n\nWould also like to see data related to the alleged increase in crime on the TTC.\n\nThe complaints about mental health wait times are not a Toronto issue, but a nationwide issue.\n\nThis video is hardly personal, relies on a few clips from CBC, CTV, and CP24, and doesn’t get to the heart of what it is like to be an everyday citizen of the city. Just looking for clicks with minimal value provided.

I moved to London, England, 5 years ago from Toronto. There's a lot of the same issues here, but I'd rather be in London than Toronto as there's just so much more to do here. Toronto is expensive but boring. At least in London you get what you pay for. I'm a city girl through and through so I couldn't imagine not living in one.

At least Trudeau isn't importing illegal immigrants from the US southern border! ...Is he? Not yet?

BC is the worst province(horrible political, health, and legal management). Quebec, Ontario, is also bad...same reason. Canada has become a hidden dictatorship. DON'T COME HERE.... IF YOU MUST, CHOOSE ALBERTA OR NEW BRUNSWICK... AT LEAST THEY HAVE DECENT PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENTS THAT CARE ABOUT AND ACTUALLY SERVE THE PEOPLE..

Unless you have a net worth of over $100 M and an additional annual income of at least $5M, don’t even consider moving to Toronto (in which case, why would you want to live there in the first place?) — except, of course, for the fine year-round weather, the bracing mountain air, the breathtaking sea views, and the plethora of Old World antiquities, all of which are truly lovely...

Because Mexico is going to start deporting illegals. Least someones on it

Sad thing is, you guys are the forerunners of what is already coming in other places. \nI can say and confirm Sydney-Australia, is going down the EXACT SAME PATH. We dont have the refuge problem experienced in Canada and really adds up to the problem, however real estate speculation has totally de railed and it's spinning out of control. At least the canadian government is trying to fo something aboit it. Here, government hasn't even tried, and no one is expecting them to do something serious to resolve it.

As a Montrealer, Toronto to me was pretty much like any big charmless American city but cheaper, cleaner and safer. So I understood that American visitors, at least, would like it. But no more. What hasn't changed is that it remains a physically unattractive city, replete with highways and strip malls, especially near and north of the 401, where most people I know live, as it's cheaper. Great for business, but Montreal is far better in almost every other way. Even friends who've moved to TO 25 or 30 years ago admit that.

That's ok at least their leader is capable of walking by himself and isn't going in circles or just freeze in place until help arrives lol?

Is the West intentionally harboring these extremists to be used as a leverage against India? At least that's the sentiment inside India. \nNevertheless, such criminals won't contribute anything positive to the Canadian society. In any case, we Indians don't mind if our government decides to eliminate them on foreign soil, since we did'nt make the rules of the game, we merely play it.

Yes actually I do have a comment or two. I think that Toronto has become the victim of either its own success as a multicultural, diverse and growing metropolis or the perceived idea that Toronto is the place to be. And what that brings with it? Yes, people who are interested in living the life and those who can afford it pay it. You said it very well, the city has become unaffordable to most people but the wealthy or at least those who are getting paid the best salaries and those who bank on real estate take advantage of this, be it the hype or reality since also, most job opportunities are still there. So to me the problem is with the lack of contro of the real estate market. And people who cant pay but for whatever reason live there just have to pay the price. The refugee situation is not surprising to me at all. We are struggling with affordable housing for crying out loud but we are also advertising to the world that we are that welcoming and peaceful society that those people can be part of. But at what cost. Toronto cannot continue like this if it will still be considered as a city for the people and not the wealthy and chronically increasing poor. No wonder they chose a progressive for a mayor and not a conservative or hard line liberal because people want change but not radically. People want to live in the best city they can having all necessary services and in peace and safety. So, there are so maby layers to pill here but again, the main reason why things have gotten the way they are is because they let real estate run unleashed. All the best, Alina.

india only copying and doing what the cia been doing for decades in other peoples countries...get used to it. saudi arabia was way worst...they tortured their targeted guy and then dismembered him...maybe while he was still alive wow. at least india agents make it quick and relatively painless.

At least, Indians don't try to enter illegaly

My question is Ups and Downs is normal when you examine the history of any country. Then why leave the country? If you ever live in a developing country and see their problem you will find Canada better, at least it has something going good like good infrastructure, security, great companies to work for. Why you guys made me think that maybe you guys are spoil brat who just can't deal the struggle, and everything needs to be just perfect.

*Man I hope all the ones in New York City see this....everyone is complaining? but internally I'm like man the new immigrants are in for a world if shit for at least the next six years. They will be paid the lowest and treated the worst*