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Are you feeling the pull of the United States? Well, then, allow us to help you have a smooth transition. Moving from Canada to the USA can be easy and fun if you know the emigration process and have a place to live in the US. This article aims at providing you with all the relevant data and information that you will need to successfully emigrate from Canada to USA.
Table of Contents
How Do I Apply for Immigration to the US from Canada?
It’s time to get your ducks in a row and figure out the best visa category for your situation. That said, no matter which type of Visa you need, everyone must take some basic steps before they can get their American adventure underway.
Decide upon a Visa Category
First, you must determine the appropriate visa category for your situation. Depending on your purpose for visiting or moving to the US, different visas may be available, and each has its own set of rules and requirements. An excellent place to start is to read up on the US Department of State’s visa categories page. The most popular Visas are:
- TN Visa (Trade NAFTA)
- H-1B Visa (Work Visa)
- E-2 Visa (Investor Visa)
Application
Once you’ve picked the right visa category, you must fill out an application and gather all the necessary documents to support your case. This includes proof of identity, your current Canadian address, and evidence showing that you meet all the requirements needed for the Visa.
Pay Application Fee
You can then submit your application along with any fees or documents that may be required. The processing time for US visas varies widely, so check your application’s progress regularly.
Attend Interview
Finally, depending on the type of Visa you’ve applied for, you may need to attend an interview before it is approved for more information about the interview process and other essential details related to immigration.
Visas Options to Emigrate from Canada to the USA
Now that you know what to expect from the US visa application process, it’s time to figure out which visas are available for Canadian citizens.
TN Visa
This trade-based Visa requires a job offer from an approved employer in the USA. Also, you may establish eligibility for TN classification when seeking entry into the United States by presenting the relevant documentation to a US Customs and Border Protection, also known as a CBP officer. There are specific CBP-designated US ports of entry or at a pre-clearance/pre-flight inspection point.
For a TN Visa, you must provide below mentioned documents to a CBP officer:
- Employment letter from your US-based employer detailing such as,
- 1. Your professional capacity
- 2. Purpose of your employment
- 3. Duration of your stay,
- 4. Your educational qualifications
- Proof of Canadian citizenship
- Applicable fees for evaluating your credentials.
A CBP officer will allow you to enter the US as a nonimmigrant if he finds all the relevant documents in the authorized order.
Bringing Family Members on TN Visa
Spouse and children aged below 21 years can accompany the primary TN nonimmigrant Visa holder under the following restrictions,
- They cannot pursue a profession. However, they can pursue academics from various schools and colleges in the US.
- They must stay within the duration granted to the primary TN Visa holder.
E-2 Visa (Investor Visa)
The E-2 investor visa is a great option for Canadian nationals who want to invest in and operate a business in the US. The E-2 investor visa allows them to live and work in the US if they have a controlling interest in the company.
The E-2 investor visa does not require an employer or job offer and is valid for up to five years. It can be renewed indefinitely, provided that you continue to meet all the program requirements.
To apply for the E-2 investor visa, you will need to provide
- Evidence of your investment and a business plan.
- You’ll also need to provide proof of your nationality
- Other documents are required by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Once your application is approved, you can enter the US as an E-2 investor visa holder.
Bringing Family Members on E-2 Visa
A Dependent of an E-2 Visa Holder can enter the US with a Dependent Visa, valid for the same length of time as the E-2 Visa.
- Under the E-2 Visa classification, the spouse of the principal E2 nonimmigrant can work in the US after attaining an Employment Authorization Document.
- Dependent children do not have the right to work in the US but can attend school. Dependents are also allowed access to US health insurance and other benefits while in the US.
H1-B Visa
The H-1B visa is a work visa for individuals willing to work in the US in specialty occupations. Generally, H-1B visas are valid for up to three years and can be extended for another three years. H1-B Visa holders must maintain valid status during their entire stay in the US.
To apply for an H1-B Visa, you will need to:
- Submit an H1-B visa application.
- Provide proof of your elementary and secondary education and qualifications.
Provide proof of employment from an approved employer in the US.
Pay applicable H1-B visa fees.
There are some additional restrictions on H-1B visa holders. For example, H-1B visa holders are not eligible for certain types of public assistance. H-1B visa holders must also show proof of valid insurance coverage when applying for a US driver’s license or renewing their H-1B visa status.
If you meet all the requirements and your application is approved, you can begin working in the US as an H1-B visa holder.
Bringing Family Members on H1-B Visa
The Dependents (Spouse and Minor Children) of H1-B visa holders are allowed to enter the US with a Dependent Visa. Dependent visas are valid for the same length of time as the H1-B Visa, but
- Dependents cannot work in the US.
- Dependents can, however, enroll in full or part-time studies.
- Dependents also have access to US health insurance and other benefits while in the US.
These are some of the most popular visas for Canadian citizens looking to emigrate from Canada to the USA. Once you have decided upon the type of Visa that best suits your requirement, you may fill in the application and move a step closer to the USA.
Documents Required to Emigrate From Canada to the US
After all, you don’t want to pack up your life only to be turned away at the border because of missing paperwork. So, what exactly do you need? Well, it depends on whether you plan to make a permanent or temporary move. If it’s the former, then the following documents are necessary:
- A valid passport
- Proof of employment in the US (if applicable),
- An immigrant visa (for certain circumstances)
- Proof of residency in Canada.
- NEXUS Card
Of course, if it’s just a temporary move you’re making, then the process is much simpler. All you need to do is apply for and receive an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization), which will grant you entry into the US for up to 90 days.
Emigrate from Canada to the US- Process Overview
Emigration from Canada to the United States requires you to follow some key steps,
- The first step in your journey is obtaining an approved visa. The Immigration and Naturalization Services (INS) determines eligibility for each type of Visa, so research thoroughly before submitting your application. You’ll also need to provide evidence of financial support and have a valid passport.
- Another important factor is the time limit of your stay in the US. Immigration laws dictate that you must leave the country within a certain amount of time after entering. Failure to do so can result in hefty fines or even deportation proceedings. Make sure you apply for an appropriate visa type with enough validity so you can stay for the duration of your planned trip.
- Also, you’ll need to register with the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) office in your area before traveling to the US. This is a mandatory requirement, so make sure you complete it in advance.
Documents Required for Entering in USA Depending Upon the Mode of Transport
Traveling by Air
- Citizens of Canada must present a valid passport from their country to travel to the US by air.
- Canadian citizens may use a NEXUS card instead of a passport to enter the US by air if they depart from Canada.
Traveling by Land or Sea
- When traveling by land or sea, they must provide the NEXUS card outlined by the Department of Homeland Security.
- Canadian children under 16 years of age (or under 19 years if traveling with a school, religious group, or other youth group) need only present a birth certificate or other proof of citizenship. The birth certificate can be original, photocopy, or certified copy.
- Canadian citizens can present an Enhanced Driver’s License or Trusted Traveler Program card (SENTRI or FAST).
How to Move to the USA from Canada as a Skilled Worker?
The most common way a skilled worker can move to the US from Canada is by obtaining an H-1B visa. The H-1B visa is sponsored by employers and allows Canadian citizens with at least a bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in a specialty field of work to enter the US for up to three years. To qualify, applicants must have a US position requiring specialized knowledge and skills.
If you are interested in emigrating to the US as a skilled worker. In that case, it is important to contact an immigration lawyer who can help with specific questions about your particular situation. This can be invaluable when navigating the intricate process of applying for an H-1B visa.
An immigration lawyer can also assist with naturalization. Once you have obtained an H-1B visa, you may be eligible to apply for a Green Card.
How Can a Canadian Get a Permanent Resident Green Card in the USA?
The most common way for a Canadian citizen to become a permanent resident of the United States is through family sponsorship. This requires someone in the US (such as a parent or spouse) to file an Immigrant Petition for Alien Relative on your behalf. Once approved, you may then apply for a Green Card and take another step closer to becoming a permanent resident.
It is also possible for Canadians to become permanent residents through employment-based visas, such as the H-1B Visa. This requires a US employer to sponsor you and file an Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker on your behalf. Once approved, you may apply for a Green Card and permanently live in the US.
There are also other paths to permanent residency, such as the Diversity Visa Lottery.
What is Diversity Visa Lottery?
The Diversity Visa Lottery, also popularly known as the ‘Green Card Lottery,’ is a yearly program that makes 50,000 immigrant visas available to people from various countries with low rates of immigration to the United States. The Lottery is conducted by the Department of State and administered by US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
If you wish to adjust your status under the Diversity Visa Program, you must prove that:
- You have been selected for getting a diversity visa lottery by DOS.
- You must have an immigrant visa available at the time of filing the adjustment application (Form I-485)
Documents Required for Form I-485
- Two passport-size photos
- Copy of birth certificate
- Form I-94, Arrival/Departure
- Copy of passport with nonimmigrant visa (if applicable)
- Vaccination record and medical examination certificates/forms.
- Copy of the principal applicant’s selection letter from DOS for the diversity visa lottery.
- Applicable fees
However, if you are not looking for a green card and plan to relocate to the USA only for a short time, you will need to keep certain things in mind.
Short-Time Relocation From Canada to the USA
If you are planning to stay in the United States for a limited period, it is important to understand that different visas will be required depending on the purpose of your visit.
It is also important to check if there is any additional documentation or paperwork that needs to be filled out based on the type of Visa.
- For instance, if you are applying for a B-2 Tourist or Business Visa, you must provide proof of funds and a letter of intent. Additionally, you may be required to undergo a medical exam before entering the United States.
- If you want to stay in the US for more than three months, Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) must be used. This application must be completed before boarding any flight or ship bound for the United States and will authorize travel to the US under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).
- The VWP is administered by the DHS and enables eligible citizens or nationals of certain countries to travel to the United States for tourism or business for 90 days or less without obtaining a visa.
If you are traveling to the US for business purposes, applying for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) prior to your trip is important. This travel authorization allows citizens of certain countries to travel to the United States without obtaining a visa.
US Immigration Laws for Canadians
In order to emigrate from Canada to the US, US immigration laws must be followed. US immigration law requires that all foreign nationals, including Canadians,
- Obtain a visa or other travel authorization before entering the US.
- Additionally, US customs and border protection will require you to present proper documentation upon arrival in the US.
- It is important for Canadians to be familiar with US immigration laws prior to entering the US, as failure to comply could result in penalties or even removal from the US.
- Finally, if you plan on living and working in the US permanently, applying for a Green Card is important. This can be done through an employer-sponsored visa or the US Diversity Visa lottery program.
So if you’re looking to make the US your new home, research US immigration law and get the proper documentation before starting your journey.
Necessary Form to Emigrate from Canada to the US
Following is the list of forms and certificates required to emigrate from Canada to US,
- Proof of being fully vaccinated against Covid-19.
- Permanent resident card (Form I-551)
- Adjustment of Status (Form I-485)
- This application form is filled and submitted through your US-based employer to the Department of Labor (ETA-750)
- This form will be filled out by your employer and submitted to the INS (Form I-140).
- Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
- Advanced Patrol (AP) or Travel Document.
Suppose you are planning to emigrate from Canada to the USA. In that case, it is important to understand the necessary forms that must be filled out in order to successfully emigrate from Canada to the USA.
Cost to Emigrate from Canada to the USA?
The cost of emigrating from Canada to the United States varies depending on the type of Visa you are applying for.
- E-2 Visa usually costs about $460 for the primary holder and $370 for the dependent.
- If you are applying for an employment-based visa, such as the H1B, there is a filing fee of up to $460.
- Additionally, if you are applying for a green card through adjustment of status, the filing fee is around $1,225.
- If you apply for a B-2 Tourist or Business Visa, you can expect to pay around $160 USD.
- An Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) fee is $ 21 USD.
The cost associated with moving from Canada to the US can add up quickly, so it is important to understand the fees associated with each type of Visa before you begin the application process.
How to Emigrate from Canada to the US Without a Job?
If you want to move from Canada to the United States without a job, then the first step is to determine the type of Visa you will need. Depending on your circumstances, you may be eligible for a tourist, student, or business visa.
Once you have obtained your Visa, the next step will be to find a place to live and apply for US citizenship. Again, this process is generally easier if you already have a job lined up in the US.
How to Find the Right Place to Live in the USA?
Once you have obtained the right Visa, the next step is to look for a home in the United States. Canadians are the top foreign real estate buyers in the USA, considering the places where Canadian communities are mostly located.
However, it is important to understand that certain steps must be taken to purchase property successfully.
Which US cities have the most number of Canadians?
The US cities with the largest number of Canadians are the greater New York, Miami, Phoenix, Los Angeles, and Seattle metropolitan areas. About 22 percent of Canadians reside in these five metro areas of the USA.
Decide Upon a Location
Trying to decide where you want to live in the US can be difficult, and it is important to do your research before committing to any location. Make sure you look into the local job market and cost of living in order to make an informed decision. Additionally, take the time to explore different neighborhoods in order to get a better sense of the area you will be living in.
Connect with a real estate agent with international expertise.
Proximity to Amenities
It is important to consider additional amenities like what type of public transportation is available, healthcare services, and local schools. These amenities will majorly impact your lifestyle in the US, so take the time to understand them before committing to any one location.
Contact A Real Estate Agent
You must reach out to an experienced CIPS agent (Certified International Property Specialist), who can guide you through the process and bring you the best home deals to suit your needs. You can connect with the best CIPS agents for free by contacting HomeAbroad.
To find out more about moving from Canada to USA, read, How to Move to the US From Canada? A Complete Guide.
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Conclusion
We hope this guide has helped you understand how to emigrate from Canada to the USA successfully. Moving to another country can be challenging and requires a lot of planning and paperwork for everything to go smoothly. Also, It is important to ensure you have a place to live in the USA, especially if you are emigrating with your family.
HomeAbroad can make this transition easy for you, but providing you the right resources to find you a perfect home. We can connect you with real estate agents and mortgage lenders, who can help you find and buy the perfect home for you in the USA.
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Frequently Asked Question
Is it hard to move to the USA from Canada?
Moving to the United States from Canada is easy. Although it may seem daunting, several steps must be taken to ensure your emigration process goes as smoothly as possible. Make sure you do research, follow the procedure, and have your documents in place and up-to-date.
Q. Can you become a US citizen if you are a Canadian?
Yes, you can become a US citizen if you are a Canadian. Citizens of Canada may apply to be naturalized as citizens of the United States through the Department of Homeland Security’s US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). You must follow the steps outlined by USCIS to start the process. Additionally, you should consult a qualified immigration attorney to ensure that your application is completed correctly.
Q. What documents do I need to emigrate from Canada to the USA?
A. The necessary documents required to emigrate from Canada to US vary depending on your circumstances and your visa type. Generally, you must provide proof of identity (Passport or NEXUS Card), evidence of employment (or intent to find a job), proof of financial resources, and criminal background checks. You may also need additional documents, such as medical records or birth certificates, if you apply for an immigrant visa.
Q. Does the US allows Dual citizenship with Canada?
. Yes, the US allows dual citizenship with Canada. Therefore, if you are a Canadian citizen and want to apply for US citizenship, you can do so without giving up your Canadian citizenship. However, it is important to note that each country has its laws regarding dual nationals. Therefore, understanding all of the implications before moving forward with this process is important.
Q. What is the easiest way to Immigrant to the USA?
The easiest way to immigrate to the United States is through education immigration. This is because you can attend a university or college in the US and gain access to your desired Visa. This process usually involves obtaining an F-1 student visa, attending school for at least two years, and then applying for a work permit or other type of long-term Visa.
Q. What Visa should Canadians apply for to study in the USA?
Canadian citizens need not apply for a visa to pursue studies in the USA. However, they must provide a 1-20 (DS-2019) Certificate of Eligibility from the specific school, university of other exchange programs they intend to attend.
