Working in Canada as a U.S. citizen is available for work visa or work permit holders. American citizens who enter Canada for business purposes are permitted to stay for up to 6 (six) months without a work permit. Canada is an attractive employment destination for foreign nationals thanks to its diversity and multicultural markets.
We will guide you through:
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- Obtaining a Canadian work permit for Americans
- Obtaining a visa to work in Canada
- Get verified Canadian work permit photos
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Obtaining a Canadian work permit for Americans
To obtain a work permit, an American citizen needs to apply for one from the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (CIRCC) department or the Canadian visa office.
Before filling out the application, you will need to provide proof of a job offer from a Canadian-based employer. Thanks to the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada-Agreement), the process of obtaining a work permit for Americans is easy.
The USMCA agreement is an improved version of the 25-year-old North American Free Trade Agreement. This agreement is mutually beneficial as it balances mutual trade and supports good-paying jobs for Americans, which improves the overall North American economy.
The application process for a work permit can be filled out either online or on paper. There are a few requirements that need to be fulfilled to obtain a work permit. These include:
- a job offer/employment contract from a Canadian firm;
- proof of education;
- job offer must be noted in the USMCA agreement;
- U.S. citizenship evidence (such as a valid U.S. passport);
- you must provide supporting evidence that your work experience and education match the qualification requirements for the offered job;
- (2) two photos of yourself and any family member(s) who may be accompanying you; photos must meet the visa application photo requirements.
You may also be requested to provide a positive Labour Market Opinion (LMO) or Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). Both documents are supplied by the Human Resource and Skills Development Canada agency. However, they are slightly different when it comes to procedures and other factors.
The documents confirm that hiring foreign skilled workers (in this case American citizens) will improve the labor market. This is simply used to assure the Canadian government that there were no Canadian citizen skilledworkers for this position, and that’s why foreign citizens filled the vacancy.
You will need to make sure to check with the CIRCC on other recent requirements, as some provinces like Quebec have special demands for temporary workers.
When entering Canada, it is also essential to keep hold of citizenship evidence and proof of identity. Documents that satisfy these requirements are a passport card, valid U.S. passport, or NEXUS. The validity of work permits is usually 1-2 years.
Keep in mind that any family member wishing to move to Canada with you must fill out a separate application form. A family member can be a spouse or common-law partner, your children, and your children’s children who are their dependents.
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- Renewal of a Canadian Passport Abroad – How It Works
Obtaining a visa to work in Canada
For American nationals, a visitor visa is not required. U.S. citizens can travel to Canada without a visa for a period of 180 days.
However, different rules apply when it comes to working in Canada. To apply for a work visa to Canada, you are required to present confirmation of an offered job from a Canadian-based employer.
In many cases, employers will also need to fill out a Labour Market Impact Assessment that proves that the foreign worker possesses a skilled trade that is essential for the job. This should be complemented by a letter from the prospective employer, a contract, and a copy of LMIA which are necessary to apply for a work visa.
The difference between a work visa and a work permit is that a visa is a document that allows entry to a specific country. In comparison, a work permit is when a Canadian employer issues an employment letter stating that a skilled foreign nationalis needed to fulfill a position. An immigrant visa allows an individual to not only work but also gives them the right to a residency in Canada.
Without a valid work permit taking up employment in Canada is not possible. However, a work permit cannot act as a travel document – even if your work permit remains valid after you leave Canada, you won’t be able to use it to re-enter Canada.Whereas foreign nationals who leave Canada while their visa is still valid will be eligible to return to Canada using that same visa.
Although they must be mindful of the fact that their ability to enter Canada will be subject to reassessment by border officers
Immigrating to Canada as a skilled worker
In some cases, Canada invites certain skilled individuals under the Express Entry (EE) program. This was designed to manage applications for residency under an economic immigration program known as the Federal Skilled Trades Program.
This online Express Entry system assesses individuals using a ranking system, and the highest-ranking candidates are invited to apply for the residency. This is typically based on the prospective workers’ abilities, knowledge of languages, work experience, education, and skills that could contribute to boosting the Canadian economy.
Based on these abilities individuals are invited to apply for permanent residency in Canada. Eligibility for this can be found in the Canadian Immigration and Citizenship department.
Get verified Canadian work permit photos
As a Canadian work permit applicant, you will be required to provide 2 (two) photos that are 35 x 45 mm in size.
The Passport Photo Online app can easily help you get your photos without leaving your home within approximately 10-15 minutes. This application features an AI system and human expert verification to ensure that your photos are compliant with all the required specifications set forth by the government.
Whether applying for a Canadian permanent residence card, Canadian citizenship, study permit, or a visa for a temporary foreign worker, Passport Photo Online will make sure that your work permit application photos get approved by the authorities.
You have the option of choosing a digital version of your photos for $6.95 (this includes four ready-to-print photos) or digital photos and printouts sent to your home for $9.95.
Passport Photo Online service comes with a double refund guarantee, so you’re not risking anything. Get expert-verified photos for your documents without having to leave your house.
Can a U.S. citizen work in Canada: FAQ
In this section, we will go over the most frequently asked questions regarding U.S. citizens working in Canada.
Do U.S. citizens need a work permit to work in Canada?
Yes, a work permit is required from U.S. citizens seeking employment in Canada.
How long does it take to obtain a Canadian work permit?
It may take anywhere between 1 (one) and 9 (nine) months for a Canadian work permit application to be processed.
Can a U.S. citizen get a work permit to work in Canada?
Yes, a U.S. citizen can apply for and obtain a work permit to work in Canada.
Can I work in Canada and live in the U.S.?
Yes, if you have a work permit and a visa that allows you to leave Canada for the amount of time you wish to be gone and then re-enter, there is nothing stopping you from living in the U.S. and working in Canada.
How to be eligible to work in Canada?
Yes, if you have a work permit and a visa that allows you to leave Canada for the amount of time you wish to be gone and then re-enter, there is nothing stopping you from living in the U.S. and working in Canada.
Do you need a work visa to work in Canada?
Yes, you need a work visa to work in Canada.
Does Canada offer Working Holiday visas for Americans?
Yes, the Canadian Working Holiday Program is open to young adults between the ages of 18 (eighteen) and 35 (thirty-five).
This program allows participants to legally work in Canada for up to 12 (twelve) months and explore the country while doing so without being limited to the number of seasonal gigs they take on.
U.S. citizens wishing to take advantage of the Working Holiday Program don’t need to present a job contract before traveling to Canada, however, they do have to prove that they have sufficient funds of $2,500 (CAD) to cover their expenses while in Canada.
Can I work in Canada with a U.S. Green Card?
Being a U.S. Green Card holder alone doesn’t entitle one to legally work in Canada – they have to apply for a Canadian work permit.
How hard is it to get a work visa for Canada?
It may not be the easiest thing to get a work visa for Canada, but it is possible.
U.S. citizens who have a valid job offer from a Canadian-based employer and are able to present all other supporting documents such as a letter from their prospective employer along with an LMIA application proving that their skills are desired for the position shouldn’t have a problem getting a work visa for Canada.
Being a skilled worker increases your chances of obtaining a Canadian work visa.
Do I need sponsorship to work in Canada?
There is no such thing as sponsorship for a Canadian work visa. A Canadian-based employer can hire a foreign worker based on their skills and provide a job contract to them, based on which the foreign worker may apply for a work visa.
Can an American work for a Canadian company?
Yes, an American can work for a Canadian company if they have the appropriate work permit.
How long can a U.S. citizen stay in Canada?
A U.S. citizen may stay in Canada for up to 6 (six) months as a visitor. After this period they will have to apply for a visa.
Can a U.S. citizen work remotely in Canada?
Yes. If you are a U.S. citizen working remotely for a U.S. company in Canada, you will still have to pay taxes in Canada. If you wish to work remotely for a Canadian company, you are required to have a valid Canadian work permit.
How do you know if you are legally authorized to work in Canada?
You are legally authorized to work in Canada if you are a permanent resident or hold a valid work permit.
How do you know if you are legally authorized to work in Canada?
You are legally authorized to work in Canada if you are a permanent resident or hold a valid work permit.
Can you work in Canada on a tourist visa?
No, a tourist visa doesn’t allow its holder to legally work in Canada.
What documents are required for a Canadian work permit?
For their work permit in Canada, applicants must present a job offer or an employment contract from a Canadian company, proof of their education and U.S. citizenship, evidence that their education and work experience match the requirements for the job they’re applying for, and 2 (two) Canadian visa-style photos.
The applicant’s prospective Canadian employer may also have to submit a Labour Market Impact Assessment application, proving that the foreign worker has the adequate skills for the position.
How to get a work visa for Vancouver?
To be able to legally work in Vancouver, foreign workers must apply for a work visa and in order to do so, they must have a valid contract or job offer from a Canadian-based employer.
Can you get a job in Canada without citizenship?
Yes, but you need to apply for a work permit.
Can a U.S. citizen work in Canada – wrap up
Citizens of the United States can absolutely work in Canada.
In order to do so, they are required to apply for a work permit or a work visa.
US citizens entering Canada for business purposes are allowed to stay in the country without a work permit for up to 6 months.
A work permit does not hold the same function as a work visa and cannot be used to enter Canada.
If you’re still confused about how to apply for a Canadian work permit, consider contacting a law firm to walk you through the process.
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Karolina Młodzka
Karolina’s passion for law, technology and photography led her to PhotoAiD S.A., where for the past 3 years she has been an expert in the implementation of passport photo compliance procedures in +80 countries around the world.
FAQs
Can a US citizen work in Canada legally? ›
A work permit is a must for US workers in Canada.
Unless your job is exempt from a work permit, you must receive a permit to work in Canada. Unfortunately, this rule applies to US citizens just like other applicants. However, you may apply for a work permit at a port of entry.
- Look for job opportunities. ...
- Secure a job offer. ...
- Apply for a work permit. ...
- Pick a skilled worker permit. ...
- Apply through a system called Express Entry. ...
- An alternative way is to get invited by the province or territory through the Provincial Nominee Program.
How long you can stay. Most visitors can stay for up to 6 months in Canada. At the port of entry, the border services officer may allow you to stay for less or more than 6 months. If so, they'll put the date you need to leave by in your passport.
How can a US citizen get a work permit in Canada? ›Getting a Canadian Work Permit as an American
You must have a job offer from a Canadian employer. The job offer must be listed in the USMCA agreement. You must be able to prove you are a United States citizen.
Yes! US citizens are required to file US taxes in Canada on worldwide income. It does not matter if you have already paid taxes in Canada. You still must file US expat taxes.
Is it hard for an American to move to Canada? ›Generally speaking, moving to Canada is not too difficult. Because Canada is open to welcoming new immigrants and offers several immigration programs, it's easier for you to qualify for one immigration stream. Still, you have to meet the requirements for the pathway you want to apply for.
Is it cheaper to live in Canada or the US? ›The average annual and monthly living expenses of the typical American are generally quite a bit larger than those of the average Canadian. However, remember that these are all averages across the entire US and Canada.
How much money do you need to live comfortably in Canada? ›In order for a couple to live comfortably, it is recommended to have around $3,500 per month or around $50,000 plus per year. This can vary a lot depending on if the couple is a one-income or two-income household as well as the size of the apartment/house you choose to live in.
How long can I stay in Canada with a US passport? ›For tourist visits to Canada of less than 180 days, U.S. citizens do not need visas. Other types of travel generally require visas. Visit the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website for current information.
What is the easiest country to move to from the US? ›Mexico. Mexico is one of the easiest and most affordable countries for Americans to move to. It's also the most popular, with over 1.5 million Americans calling Mexico home.
Can I be a dual citizen of the US and Canada? ›
You don't apply for dual citizenship, and there is no related certificate. Canadians are allowed to take foreign citizenship while keeping their Canadian citizenship. Ask the embassy of your country of citizenship about its rules before applying for Canadian citizenship.
Can I move to Canada without a job? ›No, in most cases you don't need a job offer. But, you will need one if you: are eligible for either the Federal Skilled Worker Program or the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and. do not have enough money to support yourself and your family in Canada.
How much money is required for work permit in Canada? ›The fee for a post-graduation work permit is CDN$155; however, you must also pay the CDN$100.00 “Open Work Permit Holder” fee. Find out more about the required fees.
What is the easiest way to move to Canada? ›- #1 – Express Entry. Express Entry is Canada's fastest and most popular immigration program. ...
- #2 – Provincial Nominee Programs. Throughout the pandemic, provinces continued to nominate overseas workers for Canadian permanent residence. ...
- #3 – Business Immigration. ...
- #4 – Sponsorship.
I do not need a visa, but I want to stay in Canada as a visitor for longer than six months. What do I need to do? If you entered Canada and you did not need a visa but want to stay longer, you must apply for an extension and pay a fee. This must be done from inside Canada.
Are taxes higher in Canada or USA? ›While the United States is much larger than its northern neighbor in terms of GDP, the average income per capita is similar in both places. While people generally pay more in taxes in the United States, Canada offers superior social benefits.
How long can a US employee work in Canada? ›Citizens of the United States can absolutely work in Canada. In order to do so, they are required to apply for a work permit or a work visa. US citizens entering Canada for business purposes are allowed to stay in the country without a work permit for up to 6 months.
Do I have to pay taxes in both US and Canada? ›The most common question we hear is, "do U.S. dual citizens in Canada have to file U.S. taxes?" Yes, if you are a citizen or resident alien of the United States, you have a U.S. tax obligation, even if you're a dual citizen of the U.S. and Canada.
What is the best country to move to from the US? ›- Portugal. Portugal is widely regarded as one of the best countries to move to from the US. ...
- Spain. Right beside Portugal, Spain provides another warm, laid-back home for Americans living abroad. ...
- Greece. ...
- Malta. ...
- Montenegro. ...
- Thailand. ...
- Singapore. ...
- South Korea.
While the USA offers better salary packages, Canada has better healthcare, more maternity leaves and other social benefits. Average work hours for Canada is slightly higher than that of the US. The annual leave structure of both countries is similar.
Can a US citizen buy property in Canada? ›
U.S. residents can own property in Canada without becoming a resident of Canada, but must report income or proceeds from a sale to both country's taxing authorities. Canadian banks offer mortgages and home equity loans with similar financing terms to those extended in the U.S.
Is healthcare free in Canada? ›All citizens and permanent residents, however, receive medically necessary hospital and physician services free at the point of use. To pay for excluded services, including outpatient prescription drugs and dental care, provinces and territories provide some coverage for targeted groups.
Whats the highest minimum wage in Canada? ›Overview of the minimum wage in Canada 2022
As you can see, the rates vary quite a bit across the country. At $13.00 per hour, Saskatchewan has the lowest minimum wage and Nunavut has the highest at $16 per hour.
Average Salaries:
An online comparison by Numbeo.com found that the average income of a Canadian and an American is almost the same. The average tax deducted income in Canada is $36,000 per year, meaning that one can earn $3,000 a year.
Property | Price per month |
---|---|
1 Bedroom | $1358 |
2 Bedroom | $1703 |
Single Family House | $2361 |
Condo Apartment | $2009 |
Very few Canadians earn that much—nor do they need to. Most individuals can get by fine on nearly $5,000 a month, he says. “Unless you are living like a king, $10,000 a month is enough for even a couple to live very, very comfortably, assuming you don't have debt,” he says.
Is food expensive in Canada? ›You're definitely paying more for it than you did last year at this time. In fact, new data released by Statistics Canada on Tuesday reveals that prices for "food purchased from stores" are now rising at the fastest pace we've seen since 1981, spiking 10.8 per cent year-over-year in August of 2022.
Is moving to Canada a good idea? ›Yes, Canada is a nice place to live in. The quality of life is high and there are plenty of job opportunities. However, the cost of living can be expensive and the winters can be harsh. But overall, Canada is a nice place to live.
How much does it cost to become a Canadian citizen? ›Canadian Citizenship Application Fees
It costs CAD$630 for an adult to apply for Canadian Citizenship without the use of a representative. It costs CAD$100 for a minor's application, provided they are under the age of 18 when the application is submitted.
Funds Needed for a Canada Tourist Visa
per month for their monthly expenses, and if an applicant is coming for tourism, then 2,000 CAD (INR 1,22,805 approx.) for 30 days per person is enough.
Which is the hardest country to immigrate to? ›
- Vatican City.
- China.
- Japan.
- Qatar.
- Liechtenstein.
- United Arab Emirates.
- Kuwait.
- Saudi Arabia.
Canada has been ranked #1 in quality of life by the United Nations and is known to be the most immigration-friendly country. Canada welcomes immigrants from across the world. The right place for those individuals considering immigrating to an English-speaking country with comfort, safety, and a high standard of living.
Where are Americans moving to? ›Big city spotlight: #1 Tampa, FL is the most popular large city to move to in 2022, and it's not the only popular city in the state: #2 Orlando, #6 Jacksonville, and #13 Miami also are attracting moves in. Four Texas cities also land in the top 20: #10 Dallas, #11 Austin, #14 Houston, and #15 San Antonio.
Do I lose my U.S. citizenship if I become Canadian? ›U.S. law does not mention dual nationality or require a person to choose one nationality or another. A U.S. citizen may naturalize in a foreign state without any risk to his or her U.S. citizenship.
Do I lose my citizenship if I become a U.S. citizen? ›The U.S. government does not require naturalized U.S. citizens to relinquish citizenship in their country of origin. Although the Oath of Allegiance to the United States speaks of renouncing “allegiance and fidelity” to other nations, U.S. immigration law does not explicitly address the topic of dual citizenship.
Can you lose U.S. citizenship? ›You will no longer be an American citizen if you voluntarily give up (renounce) your U.S. citizenship. You might lose your U.S. citizenship in specific cases, including if you: Run for public office in a foreign country (under certain conditions) Enter military service in a foreign country (under certain conditions)
Can a US citizen work remotely in Canada? ›You can move to Canada with a remote job as long as you are working for a Canadian company.
How long does it take to get a work permit in Canada? ›This may take up to 30 business days (6 weeks).
Can Americans retire in Canada? ›Moving to Canada doesn't mean you need to give up your U.S. citizenship. You can receive Social Security benefits while living in another country, but you will also likely still be subject to U.S. taxes if you earn supplemental income. This is because the United States carries out citizen-based taxation.
Can you buy residency in Canada? ›Canadian government provides wealthy foreigners with the opportunity to obtain citizenship by investing in the country's economy. The investment program allows potential investors to receive permanent residency through the purchase of government bonds.
Where do Americans live in Canada? ›
Vancouver; Osoyoos, British Columbia; Edmonton, Alberta; and Calgary, Alberta, also have American expatriate colonies.
What is the maximum age limit for work permit in Canada? ›Normally, you must be a Canadian or foreign youth aged 18 to 35. For some countries, the age limit is 18 to 29 or 30 years old. Find out if you're eligible to work and travel in Canada.
Can I go to Canada without degree? ›Yes. Although most professional-level jobs in Canada require a minimum of a bachelor's degree, candidates without a degree can still receive a work visa as long as they acquire the skills, experience, education, language; and meet their chosen company's job requirements.
Can I get a 10 year visa for Canada? ›The super visa is a multi-entry visa that provides multiple entries for a period up to 10 years. The key difference is that the super visa allows an individual to stay for up to 5 years at a time in Canada, while a 10-year multiple entry visa would only have a status period for each entry of six months only.
Can a US citizen rent an apartment in Canada? ›If you are renting in Canada as a foreigner, keep in mind that some landlords might require a guarantor. This needs to be someone that has Canadian documents. They may also run a Canadian credit check on you, but if you are a foreigner, you may not have any history in Canada.
How many times can I visit Canada in one year? ›While valid, a multiple entry visa will let you travel to Canada for six months at a time as many times as you want. It will be valid for up to 10 years or one month before your passport expires, whichever is shorter.
Can a US citizen work in Canada remotely? ›You can move to Canada with a remote job as long as you are working for a Canadian company.
How long can you work in Canada without a visa? ›US citizens or residents coming to Canada on business may stay in the country without a work permit for up to 6 months. There are types of jobs that may not require a work permit, they include athletes or those coming to work for Canadian charitable or religious organizations, among others.
Do I need a work permit to work in Canada? ›Most foreign nationals need a work permit to work in Canada.
How do you become eligible to work in Canada? ›If you are not a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, you need a work permit to work legally in Canada. In general, you need to apply for a work permit from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) or a Canadian visa office before you come to Canada.
Can I move to Canada from the US with my remote US job? ›
Yes you can, We do not care if you have a remote US job. However, as a Canadian resident you have to file a Canadian tax return for the income. Then you will also have to file a US tax return on the same income though you will get a tax credit for the Canadian taxes paid. You will not be double taxed.
How long can I stay in Canada with a US passport? ›For tourist visits to Canada of less than 180 days, U.S. citizens do not need visas. Other types of travel generally require visas. Visit the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website for current information.
Can US citizens buy property in Canada? ›U.S. residents can own property in Canada without becoming a resident of Canada, but must report income or proceeds from a sale to both country's taxing authorities. Canadian banks offer mortgages and home equity loans with similar financing terms to those extended in the U.S.
What is the easiest country to move to from the US? ›Mexico. Mexico is one of the easiest and most affordable countries for Americans to move to. It's also the most popular, with over 1.5 million Americans calling Mexico home.
Do US citizens need a visa for Canada? ›American citizens, including American-Canadian citizens, must carry proper identification and meet the basic requirements to enter Canada. You do not need a Canadian passport, a Canadian visa or an eTA to enter Canada if you are travelling with a valid U.S. passport.
What is the easiest country to immigrate to? ›- New Zealand.
- Australia.
- Spain.
- Paraguay.
- Germany.
- Montenegro.
- Czechia.
- Thailand.
...
Local visa office requirements
- Go to the work permit application.
- Select “Apply online”.
- Select the country or territory you're applying from.
- Download the country-specific visa office requirements from the list of documents, if there are any.
The fee for a post-graduation work permit is CDN$155; however, you must also pay the CDN$100.00 “Open Work Permit Holder” fee. Find out more about the required fees.
How much does it cost to get a work permit in Canada? ›If you're applying for an open work permit, make sure you pay all applicable fees: work permit fee ($155) open work permit holder fee ($100)
What is the easiest way to move to Canada? ›- #1 – Express Entry. Express Entry is Canada's fastest and most popular immigration program. ...
- #2 – Provincial Nominee Programs. Throughout the pandemic, provinces continued to nominate overseas workers for Canadian permanent residence. ...
- #3 – Business Immigration. ...
- #4 – Sponsorship.
How long does it take to get a work permit in Canada? ›
This may take up to 30 business days (6 weeks).
Is it expensive to live in Canada? ›Out of 252 different countries, Canada is ranked as the 24th most expensive country in the world to live in.