Canadian immigration and career prospects positive

With the strengthened Canadian dollar and average wage levels increasing, Canadian immigration has never looked more attractive. Executive coach Tim Cork predicts that "Canada will be a great place for career growth this year".

"Because it is tough for employers to fill all their needs, many job candidates will be seeing multiple offers, and those who want to switch jobs may find employers are willing to make a counter offer to get talent to stay with them," he told the Globe and Mail.

A recent survey of hiring managers and human resources professionals by CareerBuilder found that 46 per cent of employers intend to increase their full-time permanent employees this year. This a 42 per cent increase compared to the same time in 2007. Senior engineers, finance and accounting workers, as well as professional, technical, administrative and clerical staff will all see strong demand, according to the survey.

A Mandrake Management Consultants survey in December revealed that Canadian recruitment firms are reporting increased demand for executives of up to 30 per cent. Jeff Rosin, managing director of executive recruiter Korn/Ferry International confirmed: "In Canada, demand for talent is high and is likely to remain stable for the foreseeable future."

Canada needs skilled workers: Anyone applying for a Canadian visa should begin by completing the Canadian Visa Bureau's online Canadian visa application to see if they meet the legislative requirements.