TIPS BEFORE YOUR ARRIVAL
- Find out about your destination country, because immigration policies are very different between the United States and Canada.
- Start looking for a job before you move. Do you know the latest requirements for a work visa?
- Make sure you are aware of the most common visa scams and how to avoid them.
- Look for loans, scholarships, grants, and other financial aid resources to help lower costs.
- Get tips from other people who made the trip before you. Read immigrant success stories for information and moral support.
IF YOU ARE IMMIGRATING TO THE US
- Find out what visas you will need to work or study in the United States.
- Get ready for the visa lottery. You will have a short period of time to apply each year.
- Consider getting an immigration attorney. It can help you navigate rapidly changing immigration policies.
- Before you go to job interviews, learn how to take advantage of your international education and work experience in the US.
TIPS FOR JOB SEARCH AND INTERVIEWS
- Prepare yourself by learning about the hiring process from a human resources specialist.
- It all starts with a strong resume. Ask someone you trust to read your resume and provide feedback.
- Three things you should never do on your resume: Don’t include a photo of yourself, don’t mention your salary expectations, and don’t keep the information longer than one page.
- Customize your cover letter for each company and job opportunity. It takes a lot of time, but it will help you stand out from other candidates.
PROFESSIONAL ORIENTATION
- Learn how to sell your international education. Employers often take less than 20 seconds to review job applications and learn how to prove yourself.
- Find out if you have the skills and training to excel in a technologically advanced workplace. How can you demonstrate those skills in a profitable way?
- Volunteering is a great way to make connections in the community, expand your professional network, and gain access to free training and development opportunities.
- Networking, in general, is a surefire way to promote your skills, build confidence, and increase your resources.
GENERAL IMMIGRATION TIPS
- Pay attention to the latest immigration news in North America, because immigration laws and policies can change quickly.
- Check your social networks before applying for a visa in the United States. Remember that immigration authorities now require visa applicants to report up to five years of activity on social media.
- Make sure you understand the entire process related to obtaining, maintaining, or extending your visa.
- Learn to cope with a big change like moving to a new country. You should also know that you are not alone in this situation.
- One way to enjoy your experience more is to make sure you are socially active and participate in extracurricular activities.
