The number of temporary foreign skilled workers entering Canada has increased by 79 per cent over the last 10 years, and the numbers continue to increase, helping boost the Canadian economy.

"The foreign skilled workers who come to Canada every year contribute to the overall proficiency and diversification of the Canadian workforce," notes Camon Mak, director, Multicultural Markets, Royal Bank of Canada. "We highly support these individuals as they not only bring increased talent to Canada as immigrants, they also reinforce the diversity of our country."

Mak offers the following tips to help prepare for the move:

Moving:

• Review what you can and cannot bring at http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/newcomers/before-goods.asp.
• Submit a change of address to all important contacts and make arrangements to have mail forwarded to you.

Banking:

• Transfer funds to your Canadian bank account.
• Order Canadian dollars in advance, so that you have cash to cover out-of-pocket expenses.

Living:

• Collect important documents (driver's licence or international driving permit, birth certificate, marriage papers, children's school records) and keep them in a safe place.
• Ensure you are covered by medical insurance through a private insurance company or your Canadian employer.

In addition, RBC has many products which help support temporary foreign workers, including unsecured credit cards and term loans for vehicle financing of up to $75,000. For more information visit: http://www.rbc.com/canada

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