Hi All
We are glad to say that we have returned back from our landing in Vancouver! What a smooth & hassle-free experience. No stresses, no difficulties encountered and the great part is not having to explain your each and every move !!
We apologise in advance for not reporting earlier but only returned back to Dubai on Sunday. We had landed in Vancouver on Wednesday 1st August 2012 around 4pm.
The whole process of landing at the immigration took all in all 10 mins. No questions, no requests for Proof of Funds, neither Goods Accompany list, in fact we had to bring to their attention the Goods to Follow list. This was stamped and signed without any questions, as to why, when, what etc.!!
The staff at immigration were very helpful, providing literature for various benefits available, medical coverage, SIN info etc.
We applied for the SIN numbers at Welcome Canada offices, located at various places, within Surrey, (45 mins away from Vancouver). For a family of 5 this took 30 mins in all but we did encounter 1 hiccup; the SIN could not be allocated for my husband (Principal Applicant) as there was someone already on the Canadian System with the Identical name and Date of Birth (Shock/Horror)!! This application would need to be done manually – a slightly longer process. The remainder of us got our cards within the week of applying but to date we are still awaiting the SIN for my husband.
Not having a SIN number does not cause a problem, as he has already opened a Bank Account with RBC (Royal Bank of Canada) along with a Debit/Credit Card and this took a week to receive the Card.
Reason why we opted for an account with RBC, is that they offer a Safe Deposit Box free of charge for the 1st year. They confirmed to us that there is no start date as to when to take the box, (they are aware that we will be returning back after 6-months).
Overall the whole experience along with the country has been fantastic one. Originally from the UK this was “home away from home”. To our surprise, we were not prepared for the weather – it was absolutely stifling. Coming from Dubai and at the time the temps were in the mid to late 40’s, did not prepare us for the Canadian summer!! The heat was unbearable, more so to the fact that there is no AC and the houses are more catered for the winter months rather than the summer – hence the fans were going 24/7!
At this point we must thank everyone at this forum for being there to guide us on every step of the way. Without you guys, we could not have achieved this.
All the best to you all in achieving your dreams!
Mr & Mrs Gypsey