How Americans Can Start Their Journey to Canada: From Work to Study

As the U.S. gears up for another election, more Americans are exploring Canada as a potential new home. Many are influenced by political changes in their country. If you're considering moving to Canada, here's a simple guide to help you understand the process.

Ways to Move to Canada from the U.S.

There are two main pathways for U.S. citizens to move to Canada:

1. Temporary Resident Pathways: These are for those coming to Canada for a specific reason, like studying, working, or tourism. These permits allow you to stay in Canada temporarily.
2. Permanent Resident/Citizenship Pathways: These allow you to live in Canada permanently while keeping your U.S. citizenship. Often, you need to start with a temporary resident pathway before becoming eligible for permanent residency.
   
   

Temporary Resident Pathways

Moving to Canada to Study

Each year, about 15,000 U.S. citizens choose to study in Canada due to its high-quality education and rich cultural experiences. Canada has over 1,500 universities and colleges.

Steps to Study in Canada:

1. Get accepted by a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
2. Apply for a study permit by submitting:
• An acceptance letter from the DLI.
• Proof of funds for tuition and living expenses.
• A provincial attestation letter (PAL).
  
  

While studying, you can work part-time during the academic year and full-time during breaks. After graduating, you can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), allowing you to work in Canada for up to three years, which can help you qualify for permanent residency through the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) under Express Entry.

Moving to Canada to Work

To work in Canada, you need a work permit. There are two main types:

1. LMIA-Based Work Permits: Employers need a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to show that hiring a foreign worker won't negatively impact the Canadian labor market. After obtaining an LMIA, you can apply for a work permit.
2. Open Work Permits: These don't require an LMIA and allow you to work for any employer in Canada. They are typically issued under programs like the International Experience Canada (IEC) or for graduates with a PGWP.
   
   

Work Permit Options for Americans:

• Global Talent Stream: This program helps Canadian employers in high-growth sectors hire skilled foreign workers quickly.
• Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA): This agreement simplifies the process for U.S. citizens to get temporary work permits without an LMIA. It covers professionals, intra-company transferees, traders, and investors.
• Intra-Company Transfer: This allows U.S. companies with Canadian branches to transfer key employees to Canada without an LMIA.
• Working Holidays (IEC): U.S. citizens aged 18 to 35 can get an open work permit for 12 months to work and travel in Canada.
  
  

Some U.S. citizens can also perform certain types of work in Canada without a work permit, like business visitors engaging in trade activities.

Permanent Residency and Citizenship

If you want to stay in Canada permanently, you can apply for permanent residency. This lets you live and work in Canada indefinitely while keeping your U.S. citizenship. After becoming a permanent resident, you might also qualify to apply for Canadian citizenship, allowing dual citizenship with both the U.S. and Canada.