Migrating from the USA to Canada is an attractive prospect for many Americans. United States citizens may want to move to their northern neighbour for the health care opportunities, a different government style, a more relaxed culture, or for any number of other reasons.
Unfortunately, it is not possible to just drive over the border and set up camp in Canada. United States citizens who wish to move to Canada have to meet several qualifications, and they have to undergo a visa application process that can be confusing and cumbersome.
Moving From the United States to Canada for Work
Americans moving to Canada for to work may have several options. If they possess desirable skills, they may be able to enter the country under the skilled worker program. If they have a job offer from a Canadian company, they may be able to get their working visa approved based on that offer. In most cases, the employer will need to provide significant reasons why that job cannot be filled by a Canadian citizen. Some Americans opt to enter Canada as a traveler, and they make professional connections while they are there.
Entrepreneur or Investor Visas
If an American wants to start a business in Canada, they may be able to move there under the terms of an entrepreneurial visa or an investor visa. In order to qualify for either of these visas, the applicant will have to prove that they have a substantial sum of money to invest in the Canadian economy. They will also have to prove that they have enough funds to keep them afloat while they are living in Canada. Typically, Canada does not extend visas to American whom they feel are heading there to live off of the welfare system.
Student Visas
Americans who have not yet started their careers may wish to move to Canada as a student. In order to get a student visa, the applicant will have to meet several qualifications. If the student wishes to work or if they wish to bring their family with them, they will have to submit additional forms to do those things. Being a student in Canada is a great jumping off point for someone who wishes to live there permanently.
If an American is already living in Canada as a student, they may be able to change their visa so that they can live there permanently.
Applying for a Canadian Visa
Americans who wish to move to Canada have several different avenues to achieve this goal. However, it can be difficult to select the right visa, and once the applicant has determined which visa they need, they may find filling it out to be confusing.
Luckily, there are immigration attorneys who can guide you through this journey. They have the experience that you need to make your dream of emigrating to Canada from the United States into a reality.
