Moving to Canada from US: The Essential Guide

When considering a move, it’s important to prepare for life abroad, as relocating to Canada from the US involves planning for a new cultural and living experience.

Immigration to Canada from the USA may not be as easy as you may think, and yet, many thousands of American citizens move to Canada each year. Plus, thousands of non-citizen American residents make the move north.

In this guide, we take you through some of the most popular options for immigrating from the United States to Canada.

Requirements for U.S. Nationals to Immigrate to Canada

Eligibility for Canadian immigration depends on the specific program you choose, but there are some common requirements across most pathways.

For skilled workers applying through the Express Entry system, you’ll need to demonstrate language proficiency, relevant work experience, and, in many cases, a valid job offer from a Canadian employer. The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) is used to assess and rank candidates based on factors such as age, education, language skills, and work experience. Those with the highest CRS scores are invited to apply for permanent residence, making it essential to maximize your profile wherever possible.

Family sponsorship is another important route to Canadian permanent residence. Canadian citizens and permanent residents can sponsor family members, including spouses, common-law partners, dependent children, and parents or grandparents, to join them in Canada.

Each immigration program has its own set of requirements, so it’s important to review the criteria carefully and ensure you meet the necessary qualifications before applying. Whether you’re a skilled worker, a family member, or someone with a valid job offer, understanding the eligibility requirements is key to a successful Canadian immigration journey.

1. Express Entry

Canada has a range of permanent residency programs for those seeking immigration to Canada from the USA. The most popular system of selecting candidates for many popular economic programs is called Express Entry.

Applicants will need to become eligible under one of the following federal economic immigration programs:

• Federal Skilled Worker Program
• Canadian Experience Class
• Federal Skilled Trades Program

Express Entry uses a points-based system to rank candidates based on factors like age, education, language skills, and work experience.

American citizens and foreign workers in America tend to fare well once in the Express Entry pool, given their English language proficiency and comparable education and work experience.

2. US Citizens Working in Canada: USMCA (formerly NAFTA)

Some US citizens may be able to work in Canada under the terms of the United States – Mexico – Canada Agreement (USMCA), which has replaced the older NAFTA agreement.

There are three key ways you can obtain a work permit using this agreement. These categories are:

1. USMCA / NAFTA Professional
Candidates in this category must meet the following criteria:

• Qualified in one of the targeted professions (including accountants, architects, engineers, lawyers, teachers, medical and scientific staff). Learn more here.
• Must have pre-arranged work in one of these fields.
• Self-employed work is not eligible.

2. USMCA / NAFTA Intra-Company Transfers
Staff of an American company can transfer to a Canadian branch of the firm. The following requirements apply:

• Must have been in continuous employment at the firm for at least one of the last three years.
• Must be employed by the company when applying.
• Must work in a specialized or managerial role.

3. USMCA / NAFTA Traders and Investors
Suitable for those who are investing in a Canadian business, and are seeking immigration to Canada from the USA or Mexico to grow that business.

Under Canada’s Express Entry immigration system, USMCA workers in Canada may benefit from additional Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points for a valid job offer.

How Can US citizens Find Employment Opportunities in Canada?

Generally speaking, Americans have an easier time securing employment in Canada, largely because USMCA makes it easier for some American workers to be hired by Canadian companies. In addition to this, American candidates often have high English language skills and easily transferable education/ work experience.

Our Outpost Recruitment agency has been finding work for construction and engineering professionals from the USA, placing them in companies across Canada that value foreign work experience.

Can US Green Card Holders Work in Canada?

Unfortunately, US Green Card Holders do not benefit from the provisions of USMCA, and their Green Card does not make life easier for them to work in Canada. US Green Card Holders must go through the same process of applying for and securing a Canadian work permit as any other foreign national. To work in Canada, US Green Card holders are required to apply for a temporary work permit. This generally means they need to secure a job offer along with a Labour Market Impact Assessment before they can apply for a work permit.

3. International Experience Canada (IEC)

The International Experience Canada (IEC) program allows U.S. citizens aged 18 to 35 to live and work in Canada on a temporary basis. Participants in the IEC program are considered temporary residents in Canada. Under this program, eligible individuals can apply for an open work permit through the Working Holiday category, which gives them the flexibility to work for any employer in Canada for up to 12 months. This option is popular among young adults looking to gain international work experience, explore Canada, or get a sense of life in the country before committing to a more permanent move. Unlike employer-specific work permits, an open work permit under IEC doesn’t require a job offer before applying.

While IEC is a temporary program, it can also serve as a stepping stone toward permanent residency. Experience gained through the IEC program can contribute to eligibility for other immigration pathways, such as the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) under the Express Entry system. However, since the work permit is only valid for a year and typically non-renewable for U.S. citizens, planning ahead is essential. If you do not meet the requirements for IEC, you may be able to apply for a temporary resident permit to stay in Canada legally for a limited period. It’s a good idea to explore long-term immigration options early during your IEC stay, especially if you’re aiming to stay in Canada beyond the initial 12 months.

4. Family Sponsorship: Spouses, Children and other family members

Family Sponsorship is one of the main pathways to permanent residency in Canada, and it’s available to U.S. citizens who have close family members who are Canadian citizens or permanent residents.

The primary goal of family sponsorship is to help the sponsored family member obtain permanent resident status in Canada. The most common is through a spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner sponsorship. If you’re married to or in a long-term relationship with a Canadian, they may be able to sponsor you for permanent residence. This process involves proving the authenticity of the relationship and meeting eligibility criteria, such as financial ability to support the sponsored person. Both inland and outland sponsorship options are available, depending on whether the applicant is already in Canada or applying from the U.S.

Canadian citizens and permanent residents can also sponsor dependent children, parents, grandparents, and, in certain cases, other relatives—although the rules are stricter for extended family.

For dependent children, the process is relatively straightforward, but sponsoring parents and grandparents involve an annual intake system with a limited number of applications accepted each year. It’s important to note that sponsors must agree to financially support their relatives for a set period to ensure they don’t rely on social assistance.

For U.S. citizens with Canadian family ties, this immigration route offers a direct way to reunite and build a life together in Canada, though the process can be detailed and requires proper documentation.

5. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) is a key pathway for U.S. citizens who want to immigrate to Canada and settle in a specific province or territory. Each Canadian province and territory (except Quebec and Nunavut) operates its own provincial nominee program, designed to address regional labour market needs and economic priorities. These programs allow provinces to nominate individuals for permanent residency who have skills, work experience, or education that aligns with their economic goals. Some PNP streams require a job offer from an employer in the province, while others are open to candidates who have studied or worked in the province previously, or who have experience in high-demand occupations.

For U.S. citizens, provincial nominee programs can be a strategic option, especially if you have a specific province in mind or don’t meet the points requirements for federal programs like Express Entry.

Popular provinces for U.S. immigrants include British Columbia, known for its thriving tech sector, outdoor lifestyle, and proximity to the US border, and Nova Scotia, which offers a strong community feel and ocean access. In fact, many PNP streams are aligned with Express Entry, meaning you can receive a provincial nomination that adds 600 points to your Express Entry profile, significantly increasing your chances of receiving an invitation to apply for permanent residency.

Other PNP streams operate independently and accept applications directly. Since criteria and availability vary by province and change frequently, it’s important to research the specific program that best matches your qualifications and goals.

6. Business Immigration and Entrepreneurship

Canada offers several business immigration programs aimed at attracting experienced entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators, including U.S. citizens who want to start or expand a business in Canada.

The Start-up Visa Program is one of the most well-known federal options, targeting entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas that can compete globally and create jobs for Canadians. To qualify, applicants must secure support from a designated organization (such as a venture capital fund or angel investor group) and meet language and financial requirements. In addition, many provinces offer their own business-focused Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), which allow individuals to apply for permanent residency based on their intention to operate a business within a specific region.

Other pathways include the Self-Employed Persons Program, designed for individuals with relevant experience in cultural activities or athletics who intend to be self-employed in Canada, and the Entrepreneur Programs offered by certain provinces. All business immigration streams aim to support Canada’s economic development, so applicants must typically demonstrate their potential to contribute to the economy through job creation, investment, or innovation. A comprehensive business plan, proof of funds, and sometimes even an exploratory visit or interview are required. For U.S. citizens with entrepreneurial experience or innovative ideas, these programs offer a viable route to permanent residency, provided they meet the eligibility criteria and show a clear commitment to doing business in Canada.

Webinar: How To Move To Canada From the US

Health Insurance and Healthcare in Canada for US Citizens

One of the major benefits of residing in Canada as a US national is getting access to its universal healthcare system. All Canadian citizens, permanent residents and some temporary residents are entitled to medically necessary healthcare services, including doctor visits, hospital care, and surgeries, under the Canada Health Act.

However, it’s important to note that coverage for prescription drugs, dental care, and vision care can vary by province and may not be included in the public system. Additionally, some provinces have a waiting period before new residents become eligible for provincial health insurance, so it’s wise to arrange private health insurance to cover any gaps during your initial months in Canada. Understanding how the healthcare system works and securing the right health insurance coverage will help ensure you and your family have access to the care you need as you settle into your new life.

Is It Worth Moving to Canada from the U.S.? A Side-by-Side Comparison

If you’re considering a move from the United States to Canada, it’s important to weigh the practical differences between the two countries. While Canada offers strong public services, a high quality of life, and a more inclusive social system, the U.S. still provides advantages in areas like job opportunities and lower taxes. Housing costs are a major factor in the overall cost of living in Canadian cities, especially in places like Toronto and Vancouver. When budgeting for a move to Canada, be sure to consider initial living expenses, such as temporary housing and setup costs. Government services in Canada, including universal healthcare and social benefits, are supported by higher Canadian taxes. The table below offers a side-by-side comparison based on recent data to help you evaluate whether relocating to Canada aligns with your goals, values, and financial situation.

Canadian Citizenship for US Immigrants

After achieving permanent residence, many newcomers set their sights on becoming Canadian citizens. Canadian citizenship offers a range of benefits, including the right to vote, eligibility for government jobs, and the ability to travel with a Canadian passport. To qualify, you must have lived in Canada as a permanent resident for at least 1,095 days (about three years) within the five years before applying. Applicants must also meet language proficiency requirements and pass a citizenship test covering Canadian history, values, and institutions. The process concludes with a citizenship ceremony, where you’ll take the oath of citizenship. Canada allows dual citizenship, so you can retain your original nationality while enjoying the rights and privileges of being a Canadian citizen. This final step is a significant milestone for those who wish to fully participate in Canadian society.

Your FAQs about US citizens immigration to Canada

Can Americans Retire in Canada?

There is no special provision that allows Americans to retire in Canada. If an American would to spend their retirement in Canada, they will need to secure some kind of status that allows them to reside in Canada. The most popular choice here would be to enter Canada as a visitor. Americans can visit Canada for up to 6 months at a time without applying for a visa. For more information, check out our page on how to retire in Canada. 

Can Americans Own Property in Canada?

Until January 1st, 2025, only Canadian citizens, Permanent residents of Canada and persons registered under the Indian Act can purchase property in Canada. There are some exceptions to this, such as if you are a worker or international student in Canada for a certain period, but at this time, an American visitor in Canada cannot purchase property.

Are you Ready to Make the Move?

Moving to Canada from the US is a significant decision that involves careful planning and a thorough understanding of the available immigration programs and requirements. Whether you’re applying through Express Entry as a skilled worker, reuniting with family through sponsorship, or exploring other pathways, at Moving2Canada, you will find a variety of resources to support you on your journey.

Navigating the process can be complex, but with the right information and professional guidance, you can make a smooth transition and start building a new life in Canada. From securing permanent residence to accessing healthcare and eventually obtaining Canadian citizenship, each step brings you closer to enjoying the many opportunities and high quality of life that Canada has to offer. No matter your background or goals, there’s a pathway to help you achieve your dream of moving to Canada and creating a successful future.