From 1987 to 1996, Mr. McKay was a locally engaged Immigration Officer, employed by the Government of Canada. From 1987 to 1989, he was employed as a Senior Immigration Officer at the Canadian Embassy in Tokyo. He was responsible for the delivery of the immigration program in Japan and the North Pacific. He dealt conclusively with all applicants seeking either permanent or temporary entry to Canada.

In 1989, Mr. McKay was named a Designated Immigration Officer by the Minister of Employment and Immigration. During his employment, Mr. McKay was the Operations Supervisor for the Visa Section and temporarily performed the duties of Immigration Control Officer.

Through his experience, Mr. McKay has become very familiar with the processing requirements of applicants for immigration (Family Class, Business and Independent) employment, Student, Visitor, Working Holiday, Live-In-Caregiver, and Returning Residents.