How To Move To Canada From US In 2021 – that will be the topic of today’s article.
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Introduction
If you’re a US citizen wanting to relocate to Canada, you can do that by checking different guides. In recent months, the global pandemic has affected lots of US citizens to relocate to their chosen destination. But not to worry, we’ve created a step-by-step guide to moving to Canada from the US.
Considering making a move across the border from the United States? Of course, the process is relatively easy. But, do you know the right routes or travel guide? Well, I’m sure you’d answer YES. If that’s right, then proceed to read this article to the end. Meanwhile, Canada and the United States have a very close relationship today.
From our research, about 380,000 people cross the Canadian-American border for family, travel, and business purposes. Not only that, but we discovered that between 2006 and 2015, nearly 87,000 immigrants from the United States of America became Canadian permanent residents.
And as of today, one of the most popular paths for United States citizens to become permanent residents of Canada is the Express Entry System. Aside from this system, there are other options including, Business Immigration, Family Sponsorship, Provincial Nominee Program, and many others, to mention a few.
In this article, we will walk you through the ways to move to Canada from the United States of America. Aside from this fact, we have compiled several reasons to move to Canada from the US. I’m sure you’d like to see what we’ve unleashed in this article? If that sounds like a YES! Read further to get the details.
Top 10 Reasons to Move to Canada from the US
Undoubtedly, Canada is renowned as one of the most welcoming countries in the world. In fact, we can say that immigrants built the country, and the citizens do not forget it. Now, if you’ve been wondering why many people love to relocate from the US to Canada, below is a detailed explanation.
1. Universal Healthcare System
While living in Canada, the citizens don’t have to worry about huge medical bills. And this is one of the factors or reasons why a lot of people would love to make Canada their permanent area of residence. Also, Canada’s healthcare system is considered one of the fairest and most accessible in the world.
Their medical treatment is mostly free at the point of use because government taxes fund it. Besides, each province is given a healthy budget to administer locally and issue health cards to all eligible residents, thereby allowing them to access healthcare. Depending on the visa you have, you might even be granted a health card.
2. Low Crime Rate and Safety
Canada’s low crime rate is envied around the world, and this has also contributed to why a lot of US citizens love to relocate. Moreover, violent crime in Canada is extremely rare, and gun ownership is nearly four times lower than the United States of America. And this reason has boosted Canada’s global reputation to be among the safest countries in the world. Besides, gun ownership is lower because the citizens feel safer.
3. Excellent Educational Facilities
Canada’s education is among the best in the world. This is due to the fact that the country values education and has long ensured that young citizens have access to the best schooling available regardless of their academic background. This, in turn, has created a well-informed society that offers great career opportunities for skilled expats.
4. Home of Multicultural Melting Pot
Canada’s Anglo-French culture was ingrained in the national identity from the country’s inception. Therefore, it’s no surprise that Canada today is one of the most diverse nations in the world. In fact, research revealed that about 41 of Canada’s 338 members of parliament were born overseas, ensuring tolerance and multiculturalism are promoted and also protected at the heart of government.
5. Economic Stability and Strength
The postcard images of spectacular lakes and mountains in Canada are undoubtedly alluring. However, anyone that’s considering the move to a new location will definitely put the financial benefits of any possible destination in practice.
Again, Canada’s banking system is known to be the bedrock of its robust and secure economy, which has been voted the most stable on the planet for more than seven consecutive years according to the World Economic Forum. In summary, this financial security allows Canada to offer a good quality of life for the vast majority of residents and emerge the second-highest standard of living of all the G20 nations.
6. Canadian Sense of Humour
While Canadians are generally proud of their country, they know not to take themselves too seriously. And for this fact, it laid a good example and a sense of humour to its locals. With notable comedians such as Dan Aykroyd, Mike Myers, and many others, a country is clearly a funny place making it out top ten reasons to move to Canada list.
7. Canada is Naturally Rich
Canada’s stable economy is built on the strong foundations of its wealth. Not only that, but the country also has a significant income from the oil and gas industry, copper, gold, iron ore, and uranium which contribute to the country’s impressive GDP. In addition, the country’s natural resources have also benefitted its booming tourist industry as people flock from all over the world to see polar bears, catch a glimpse of the Northern lights, and many others.
8. Progressive and Diverse
Canada is pretty progressive and very multicultural compared to other countries in the world. When you move to this country, you’d be encouraged to keep your traditions, language, religion, and culture. In Toronto alone, more than a hundred and forty languages are spoken, and more than 20 percent of this population was not Canadian by birth.
9. Job opportunities for Expats
It’s no doubt that there are excellent job markets in Canada for the locals and migrants coming to the country for the first time. On the flip side, Canada having an elderly population simply means many of the residents are reaching retirement age and leaving the workforce. And this contributes to why it’s also beneficial for new emigrants planning to relocate.
10. Free Education in Canada
If you’re planning to relocate to Canada from the United States, you shouldn’t worry about paying school fees again. Also, if you want to give your children one of the best educations in the world, Canada is the best option. Besides, children can enroll at public elementary schools and public secondary schools at no charge. However, Canada is as well the fourth most popular country for international student enrollments.
How to Move to Canada from the Us
As of today, it’s easier to move from one first-world country to another, especially if the country is situated above you. Geographically speaking, a lot of people would love to move from the US to Canada, leading them to have a brighter future. This is because; the country offers more than 80 immigration programs to achieve permanent residency in Canada.
Moreover, each immigration program in Canada has its own eligibility requirements that must be satisfied and a legit application processes that must be followed. Now, we have compiled several ways to relocate from the United States to Canada. Without further ado, let’s quickly walk you through.
1. Skilled Worker Immigration Requirements
If you have skilled work experience, you can apply for permanent residency in Canada through the Express Entry System. This express entry system is known to be the program that selects high-scoring candidates for three economic immigration programs, including the federal skilled worker program, the Canadian experience class, and the federal skilled trades program.
| Canada Skilled Types | Job Position Examples |
| Professional Jobs | Accountants, medical workers, lawyers, etc. |
| Managers Jobs | Mining, hospitality, finance, etc. |
| Trade workers job | Plumbers, carpenters, welders, cooks, etc. |
| Technical workers job | Computer network, broadcast technicians, etc. |
2. Graduate Immigration Process to Canada
Studying in Canada doesn’t only provide individuals with hundreds of cheaper options in breathtaking areas across Canada, but it opens more immigration pathways for recent graduates. So, after your studies in Canada, you can apply for an open work permit to work anywhere in the country and kick start your career. To be eligible, you’ll need to apply to a designated learning institution for international students who would love to pursue a permanent life in the country.
3. Semi-Skilled or Unskilled Immigration Process
This type of immigration process is aimed at helping unskilled workers in jobs such as farming, trucking, and more to move from the United States to Canada. After working in Canada for about 6-9 months and you might have received full-time job offers from your employers, you can apply for a permanent residency in Canada through the following packages.
- Child and Home care Provider program/pilot
- Agri-Food immigration program/pilot
- Long-Haul Truck Driver program/pilot
How We Make Moving from the US to Canada
Initially, one can just drive across the border with all belongings, but it’s essential to follow the right process, collect all the documents, and fill in the heaps of paperwork correctly. Moreover, you can use accredited, regulated Canadian immigration consultants. Now, it is the job of the RCICs to assist you with your eligibility evaluation and submit them to the Canadian government on your behalf.
Immigration to Canada Using USMCA
Under the terms of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, which the older NAFTA agreements have replaced, there are three keys to obtaining a work permit using this agreement, especially if you’re a US citizen. Without much talk, below is a detailed description of what the program entails.
1. USMCA/NAFTA Professional Program
Candidates who would love to apply for this category must meet the following criteria:
- You must qualify for one of the targeted professions, including engineer, accountants, lawyers, medical, and scientific staff.
- You must have pre-arranged your work in one of the fields mentioned above
- Always know that self-employed work is not eligible
2. USMCA/NAFTA Intra-Company Transfers for US Citizens
This kind of program is meant for the staff of an American company that transfers to a Canadian branch of the same firm. Below are the requirements to apply for this kind of immigration process.
- You must have been in continuous employment at the firm for at least one of the last three years
- The company must have employed you as at the time you’re applying for this kind of relocation package
- You must be working in a specialized or managerial role in your company
3. USMCA/NAFTA Traders and Investors Program
The USMCA/NAFTA traders program is suitable for those who are investing in Canadian business and also seeking immigration to Canada from the USA or Mexico to grow their business. Under this program or Canada’s Express Entry immigration system, the USMCA workers in the country may benefit from additional Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points for a valid job offer.
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
Like the United States of America, Canada is subdivided into different jurisdictions known as territories and provinces. These territories are, in some ways, similar to the different states that make up the United States. This PNP can be a great starting point for U.S. citizens and residents who know which province or territory they want to settle in.
Family Sponsorship in the United States
Canadian citizens and permanent residents can sponsor their spouses to obtain Canadian permanent resident status. Since the country recognizes same-sex marriage, same-sex partners may apply for reunification as long as they meet all of Canada’s standard eligibility requirements. However, both the sponsoring Canadian citizen and the sponsored person must be approved to be granted permanent residence.
Work without a Work Permit Package
A number of situations may occur when the people in the United States can perform work in Canada without needing to secure a temporary work permit. This type of program includes people that engage in business or trade activities in Canada but will not enter the Canadian labor market collectively referred to as Business visitors.
Ultimate Travel Guide to Move to Canada
Have you been planning a trip to the land of snow and maple syrup? From the United States of America, you can relocate to Canada without stress or disturbance. And there are special relocation packages for U.S. citizens when moving to Canada. Below are the things you should know before you travel.
Distance Are Always Enormous
Compared to the U.S short travel distance, don’t assume you will cover most of Canada’s location during a short visit. This is because; it’s a huge country and getting from one city to the other involves traveling long distances. Also, many people don’t schedule enough time for their trip across Canada, and this could make them find themselves rushing from one city to the next.
Prepare For the Weather
To some extent, we can say that the weather in the United States and that of Canada is quite similar. However, the three words you may need to remember when packing for a trip to Canada are layers, layers, and layers. In fact, if you’re visiting the country in the summertime, there can be thunderstorms on prairies, and in the mountains, the temperature dips at night. Moreover, it gets cold in the winter, and you can expect Siberian temperatures.
Get Your ETA Visa
When you’re moving from the United States to Canada, it’s always crucial to get your ETA Visa in advance. The ETA stands for Electronic Travel Authorization, and it’s a new entry requirement for visitors to Canada. Moreover, this visa is now mandatory for all visa-free nationals except the Americans since November of 2016. In most cases, you can get your ETA approved in few minutes of applying.
Always Use Couchsurfing to Stay Free
Accommodation in the United States is not free or cheap, just as it is in Canada. Although some of the major cities and tourist spots have hostels but they are still quite pricey. Therefore, if you’ll have to stay in a hotel, this could likely eat up a lot of your budget. Besides, the value of Couchsurfing isn’t just in the free accommodation, but it‘s also beneficial because you’re staying with someone that knows the area.
Travel Insurance Is Essential
It’s no doubt that travel insurance is always a good idea when you travel, but especially from the United States to Canada. However, if you’re not a Canadian citizen, but you become ill when traveling to the country, always know that it will cost you a lot of money.
In addition, if you’re choosing your health insurance policy, make sure that you read the fine print and check that you’re covered for any and in Canada, such as skiing. So, always know that travel insurance is necessary even if you’re relocating from the United States or Mexico to Canada.
Get Ready For a Diverse Nation
Of course, Canada is indeed a diverse nation inhabiting tons of cultures across the world. Cities like Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, and all of the other main centers in Canada have lots of cultures, food, and plenty of things to do. Therefore, if you’re planning to move to Canada for the first time, you should be ready for a diverse nation. Moreover, Canada has a population of just 36 million, and it’s unpopulated.
Your Language Is Recognized
One of the most important things to know about moving to Canada is that you’ll definitely see your tribe in this country. While there’s also a huge French-speaking population, with over 7.2 million people speaking it as their first language, you can see people speaking English and other languages in Canada.
Frequently Asked Questions about Moving to Canada
Can US citizens move to Canada?
Of course, US citizens can obtain Canadian citizenship, but just as other foreign nationals, they need to become Permanent Residents first. This means, one of the easiest ways to relocate from the United States to Canada is to get a permanent job in the country. Besides, there are many other options.
Is it easy to move from the US to Canada?
The answer is an absolute yes. It’s quite easy to relocate from the U.S. to Canada. Another easy option to relocate from the United States to Canada is through Canada’s Express Entry system. This type of application process is used to process the majority of three of the country’s economic immigration programs.
How much money do I need to live comfortably?
On average, a single person can live comfortably in Canada when you have or earn up to $2,771 per month for living expenses. And for families of four, the necessary salary is CAD 5,500 monthly. On the flip side, your location could also determine how much money you’ll spend while living in the country.
What salary is considered rich in the country?
To be considered rich in Canada, you should be making upwards of $345,500 and beyond. In Toronto, though, you’ll need to make over $370,000 to be in the big men’s list or leagues. With that being said, don’t count yourself out because the kind of lifestyle you choose will determine what you want.
Where is the best place in Canada to live?
When it comes to selecting the best places in Canada, there are tons of places to consider. Before you make a move, you’ll likely want to think about where in Canada you’ll likely want to reside. Climate employment and lifestyle will all play a factor, but some of the places to live include Ontario, Toronto, Alberta, Manitoba, Quebec, Saskatchewan, and many others, to mention a few.
Who pays the most taxes in Canada?
When examining all the taxes from all levels of government, our research made it known the top 20 percent of income-earning families in Canada is the only group that collectively pays a more significant share of total taxes than their share of total income earned.
Conclusion
There are so many great options and reasons to relocate from the United States to Canada. Out of the ones we’ve listed above, you should be able to pick the best that could make you relocate in due time. However, applying for Canadian citizenship will require you to be at least 18 years. Nonetheless, if you’re among the candidate seeking to relocate, refer to this guide to understand what it takes to move.
