Three Ways for U.S. Citizens to Work and Travel in Canada | InterExchange (2024)

FAQs

How can an American citizen work in Canada? ›

These are the documents your employer will ask for: Proof that you're allowed to work in Canada: You'll need a PR card, CoPR, work permit, or study permit to legally work in Canada. Proof of U.S. citizenship, if applying under USMCA: Only U.S. or Mexican citizens can work in Canada under the USMCA.

A valid U.S. passport, passport card, or NEXUS card satisfies these requirements for U.S. citizens. Children under 16 only need proof of U.S. citizenship. Entry into the United States: When traveling by air from Canada, U.S. citizens must present a U.S. passport book or other approved identification document.

Canadian citizens and permanent residents of Canada don't require a work permit or visa to work in Canada, regardless of their country of residence. Foreign nationals looking to work in or visit Canada may need to get a work permit, a visitor visa or both to enter Canada.

Yes, American citizens can move to Canada. However, if your stay in Canada exceeds 180 days, or if you intend to work there, you will likely need a visa or a work permit. Each visa requires meeting specific eligibility criteria and following the appropriate application procedures.

Business visitors are persons who stay in Canada for a few days or a few weeks to attend meetings or an event, and can stay for up to 6 months. If you plan to stay for more than 6 months or plan to work in Canada, you may be considered a temporary worker and have to apply for a work permit.

A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a document that an employer in Canada may need to get before hiring a foreign worker. A positive LMIA will show that there is a need for a foreign worker to fill the job.

As a visitor, you can bring certain goods into Canada for your own use as personal baggage. Personal baggage includes clothing, camping and sports equipment, cameras and personal computers. This also includes your mode of transportation, including vehicles, private boats and aircraft.

U.S. citizens must carry proper identification such as a valid U.S. passport.

If a person stays in Canada for an extended period, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) or the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) may issue a Removal Order. Removal orders will specify that you must leave Canada and cannot lawfully remain there.

In general, you need a visa or work permit to be allowed to work in Canada. US citizens or residents coming to Canada on business may stay in the country without a work permit for up to 6 months.

How do I travel to Canada and work? ›

If you are interested to live and work in Canada, you are required to have a visa. Therefore, it is possible to obtain a permanent visa within the skilled worker category if you meet the requirements. To qualify for one of the visas, an assessment of your profile will be made.

Canadian citizens are allowed to work in the United States, but they are required to obtain a United States work visa before they can legally work in the United States or take a job. There are several types of work visas that Canadian citizens can apply for, including the H-1B visa, L-1 visa, and TN visa.

If your stay exceeds 180 days, you will most likely need a visa. You will also need a visa or work permit if you intend to work in Canada. Unless you apply for Canadian citizenship, you will always be considered an American citizen, including if you become a permanent resident of Canada.

The easiest way for an American to relocate to Canada is through the Express Entry system, aimed at three types of skilled immigrants who want to settle in Canada, according to the Government of Canada website.

Do not worry. You can immigrate to Canada without a job offer. Canada is a welcoming country that values diversity and welcomes immigrants worldwide. While having a job offer in Canada can increase your chances of being approved for permanent residency, it can be optional.

As a U.S. citizen living and working in Canada, you're taxed by Canada on money earned in Canada. This includes income you earn from being an employee at a company operating in Canada as well as any interest you earn from investing in Canadian stocks, bonds, or mutual funds.