Bank on these tips
Dear Mr Brown:
I am a banker in my mid-30s with over 10 years of experience. I am interested in migrating to Canada to work and live. I find my job very frustrating in Jamaica. Therefore, I am wondering whether I should continue in the sector or pursue a different industry. I would like some guidance.
— SK
Dear SK:
Dear SK:
I receive similar enquiries from bankers. In fact, I think the banking industry is one of the largest that pursue their interest in Canada. By the term “banker”, I am referring to positions such as financial planners, wealth management officers, financial advisors, financial analysts, investment advisor, insurance brokers, and bank tellers.
The industry is robust and is expected to do very well in Canada. The largest segment of the Canadian society is in their 60s. This means that the largest segment of the society will have the most amount money. This demographic will have accumulation of earnings and inheritances from their parents. Consequently, as this group moves from debt management to asset management and consumption, financial services will have an increased customer base.
Financial planning
A popular one-year programme that many bankers are pursuing in Canada is Financial Planning at Centennial College. The programme is designed for students who have already completed a diploma or degree and wish to enter the financial planning field in Canada.
It is a practical programme, rather than based on a thesis or dissertation. It provides students with the tools to become licensed through the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) exam. The curriculum includes:
• Comparing and contrasting select financial products and services, investment planning and counselling services for clients, while adhering to industry standards.
• Tax and legal implications within a financial planning situation.
Financial planning and wealth management
A popular two-year graduate programme is financial planning and wealth management at Lambton College. Students gain specialised career expertise, technical knowledge and selling skills required to work in banks, credit unions, mutual fund companies, investment dealers, stock brokerages, independent financial planning firms, and insurance companies.
The final term of study includes a co-op work experience in the financial services industry. Normally co-op work experience attracts tuition fees. However, at Lambton, it is offered free of cost, which cuts the tuition fees in half for the second year.
Although you have experience in Jamaica, Canada prefers Canadian experience. As such, if you complement your background with a marketable credential and relevant work experience in Canada, your journey to permanent residence and full-time employment in Canada should be successful. Should you be interested in pursuing such programmes, I can assist you with the process.
Please visit
jamaica2canada.com for additional information on Canadian Permanent Residence programmes, including Express Entry, the Study and Work progamme, visitor’s visas or appeals, etc.
Antonn Brown, BA, (Hons), LLB, MSc, RCIC, is an immigration counsel and education agent of
JAMAICA2CANADA.COM—a Canadian immigration and education firm in Kingston. Send questions/comments tojamaica2canada@gmail.com.