The Self-employed class is reserved for world-class athletes, well-known artists and those with specialized farm management skills.

When any immigrant or refugee arrives in Canada, they are urged to seek help from a variety of settlement services located across the country. Many are run by church organizations or non-profit agencies and funded by the provinces and federal government in full or in part.

The centres give orientation seminars on basic skills such as shopping for food, nutrition, opening a bank account, medical services and looking for accommodation.

Other services may include translation and interpretation services, rþsumþ preparation, interviewing techniques and other skills that might help immigrants find work.

Immigrants can also apply for their Social Insurance Number (SIN). A birth certificate, Canada Immigration visa (Record of Landing) and passport are required. Applications are also available at Canada Post offices and Human Resources Centres of Canada.

Finding Help In Your Community (external site)

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A majority of immigrants end up in sales, service or processing jobs.

Immigrants from East Asia (especially Hong Kong and China) tend to settle in Vancouver.

Immigrants from South Asia (India, Pakistan) or South and Central America tend to live in Toronto.

The average household income of recent immigrants is $46,400 compared to the average Canadian-born household income of $47,200.

SOURCES: 1996 Census Facts and Figures 2001: Immigration Overview

Profile of Settlement Manager Carlos Vialard