How to move to Canada from the US

Americans seeking to move to Canada should plan in advance for their immigration status.

Although Americans with passports are used to being able to visit Canada freely, if an American wishes to re-settle in Canada, they’ll need appropriate authorization to work or to study, or to live in Canada on a long-term basis.

There are three major programs that Americans may wish to consider when thinking about a move to Canada:

• CUSMA/USMCA professionals work permits;
• The Federal Skilled Worker Program; and
• The Canadian Experience Class.

Legal Status to Work or Study
It is illegal for foreign nationals, including US citizens, to work or study in Canada without authorization.

US Citizens who don’t hold Canadian citizenship will need to obtain authorization in order to work or study in Canada.

Americans do benefit from being visa-exempt: they will not require a visa or electronic travel authorization (eTA) to enter Canada, unlike foreign nationals of many other countries.

There are two main ways to obtain legal status in Canada:

• Permits, which are temporary; and
• Permanent residency, which can be renewed indefinitely, provided you spend enough time in Canada.