How an American can move to Canada: 5 available programs in 2024
In November 2024, after the announcement of the results of the presidential election, interest in moving abroad increased sharply among Americans. Many US citizens considered moving to Canada. This was influenced by the close location and close ties between the two countries. Find out what opportunities exist for the relocation of skilled workers, entrepreneurs and other categories of expats
Donald Trump's victory in the election has made Americans living in states that supported Kamala Harris think about moving abroad. In particular, the popularity of the query "How to move to Canada" on Google has increased by 400%, and "requirements for moving to Canada" has increased by 500%.
For those Americans who are seriously thinking about migrating to Canada, we recommend that you familiarize yourself with the available programs for moving from the USA to Canada in 2024.
Method 1 - Express Entry System
The Express Entry System is the fastest way for qualified migrants to obtain permanent residence in Canada.
In general, the Express Entry System is an online database through which Canada registers all those wishing to move to the country for permanent residence. Each participant is evaluated based on certain factors: basic skills, experience, education, ability to adapt, etc. Based on the points, a rating of applicants is compiled.
- Basic requirements:
1. The Comprehensive Rating System (CRS) assesses age, education, work experience and language skills.
2. Proof of funds is often required.
3. A specific job offer is not required.
- How to apply for the Express Entry System?
1. Register an online profile and enter accurate personal details.
2. Take a language test (English or French) to prove your language skills.
3. Submit an Assessment (ECA) to prove your foreign education.
4. Join the Express Entry pool and wait for an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
5. Receive an ITA and submit your documents within 60 days.
6. Complete a full medical examination and background check.
7. Obtain Permanent Resident (PR) status if approved.
Option 2 – Open Work Permit for H-1B Visa Holders
Holders of a US H-1B visa are eligible to immigrate to Canada without a job offer. This program simplifies the move by allowing skilled workers to gain Canadian work experience and seek permanent residency options.
- Basic requirements:
1. Hold a valid US H-1B visa.
2. Have a job offer in the US, although a job offer in Canada is not required to obtain this permit.
- How do I apply?
1. Gather the necessary documents, such as proof of US H-1B status.
2. Create an online account with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
3. Apply for a work permit.
4. Pay the fees and upload the required documents.
5. Wait for the permit to be approved (usually within a few months).
6. Travel to Canada to seek employment opportunities.
7. Obtain permanent residency in Canada after gaining Canadian work experience.
Option 3 – Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) is designed to help specific Canadian provinces attract skilled workers who meet their economic needs. This program allows candidates to apply to a specific province if they have the necessary education and work experience that can contribute to the development of the province and the Canadian economy as a whole.
- Basic Requirements
1. Varies by province; often requires specific job skills or job offers.
2. Some provinces have PNPs aligned with Express Entry, which require Express Entry eligibility.
- How to apply?
1. Select a province from the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) whose requirements match your skills and experience.
2. Apply for the PNP for your chosen province.
3. Receive an offer from your province, if selected.
4. Create or update your Express Entry profile with a nomination that adds 600 CRS points.
5. Wait for an Invitation to Apply (ITA) from IRCC and submit your documents.
6. Complete a full medical and police background check.
7. Receive PR status upon approval.
You will need health insurance to safely move and find employment in a new country. You can issue an extended policy on our website using the link.
4th way – Start-Up Visa
The Start-Up Visa program is designed for innovative entrepreneurs who want to start a business in Canada. Applicants must demonstrate an original business plan, its potential to create new jobs for Canadians and competitiveness at the international level.
Thanks to such programs, entrepreneurs can get the opportunity to move to Canada and implement their ideas, receiving support from the country's innovative environment. Canada seeks to attract talented immigrants, which will contribute to the development of the economy and contribute to the cultural diversity of the country.
- Basic requirements
1. The applicant must have a qualified business and the support of a Canadian investor.
2. Know the language at the appropriate level (CLB 5 English or French).
3. Have a sufficient amount of funds for relocation.
- How to apply?
1. Develop a business plan and approach a special venture capital fund, angel investor or incubator.
2. Obtain a letter of support from one of these organizations.
3. Gather and submit all required documents to IRCC.
4. Complete a security and medical screening.
5. Obtain PR status upon approval.
6. Come to Canada and start your business.
Option 5 – Family Sponsorship
The Canadian Family Sponsorship Program allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their family members, including spouses, partners, and dependents, to join them in Canada. Sponsors must demonstrate financial support for the family members and demonstrate a family relationship with the family member.
- Basic Requirements
1. The sponsor must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
2. Proof of family relationship (marriage certificate, joint finances, etc.) must be provided.
3. The sponsor must demonstrate sufficient funds to support the family member.
- How to apply?
1. Prepare documents that confirm your relationship with the sponsor.
2. Apply for sponsorship to IRCC.
3. Wait for sponsorship approval from IRCC.
4. Apply for permanent residence.
5. Pass a medical examination.
6. Obtain PR status after approval of the application.
7. Come to Canada with the support of your sponsor.
These are just a few of the available options for moving to Canada. If you are seriously thinking about moving to Canada, consult a migration specialist to choose the best program for you.
Let us remind you! In November 2024, the number of people thinking about moving abroad in the USA significantly increased. Usually, Americans choose English-speaking countries and states in Europe. We have already talked about the most popular destinations for Americans to move to in 2024 and the available migration options.
Igor Usyk - Head of Migration department at VisitWorld
To ensure a safe move to a new country, I advise you to consult a specialist. My colleagues, qualified specialists with a legal education, will help you avoid unpleasant situations during migration.
Products from Visit World for a comfortable trip:
Checklist for obtaining a visa and necessary documents in Canada;
Legal advice on immigration to Canada;
Travel insurance for foreigners in Canada;
Medical insurance all over the world.
We monitor the accuracy and relevance of our information. Therefore, if you see any error or discrepancy, please write to our hotline.
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