How to Move to Canada: Complete Guide for US Citizens (2025)

Thinking about making the move to Canada? You’re definitely not alone. Following the 2024 US presidential election, searches for “moving to Canada” and “immigrate to Canada” jumped by over 5,000% according to The Hill. While that initial spike has cooled down by about 29%, interest is still way higher than normal—Google Trends data shows June 2025 had more searches than any June in the last five years.

The good news is that Canada actually wants skilled Americans to move there. And while the process of immigrating to Canada involves several steps, it’s more straightforward than you might think. This article walks you through everything you need to know, from figuring out if you qualify to actually making the move.

Quick Check: Can You Actually Move to Canada?

Before we dive deep, let’s see which path might work best for you. Check off what applies:

Your Situation	Possible Immigration Path
✓ Got a job offer from a Canadian company?	A work permit is your fastest route
✓ Under 35 with a college degree and work experience?	Express Entry is probably perfect for you
✓ Have Canadian family who are citizens or permanent residents?	Family sponsorship could be your ticket
✓ Want to study in Canada first?	A student visa can be a great stepping stone
✓ Have business experience or startup money?	Business immigration might fit
✓ None of these fit?	Don’t worry! Provincial programs often have more flexible requirements

Understanding How Canadian Immigration Actually Works

As part of Canada’s 2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan, the country plans to welcome 395,000 new permanent residents in 2025, 380,000 in 2026, and 365,000 in 2027. The system is designed to attract people who can contribute to the economy—and Americans often fit that bill perfectly.

The main ways to immigrate:

• Economic programs (Express Entry, Provincial programs) – for skilled workers
• Family reunification – for those with Canadian relatives
• Business programs – for entrepreneurs and investors
• Temporary residence – work or study permits that can lead to permanent residence

Express Entry: Your Best Bet as a Skilled Worker

The Express Entry system is the most popular pathway for people who want to become permanent residents. Think of Express Entry like a points-based competition. Canada ranks everyone who applies using something called the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). You can earn up to 1,200 points total. The highest scorers get invited to apply for permanent residence.

Where do your points come from?

• Core factors (age, education, work experience, language): Up to 600 points
• Bonus factors (job offer, provincial nomination, Canadian education): Up to 600 points

Understand the tax impact of living and working in Canada.

The Three Express Entry Programs

1. Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) Best for: Most American professionals

• Need at least 1 year of skilled work experience
• Strong English (or French) skills required
• College degree or higher
• Must show that you can support yourself financially

2. Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
Best for: Americans who have already worked in Canada

• Need 1+ years of Canadian work experience
• Good language skills
• No specific education requirement

3. Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) Best for: Skilled tradespeople

• Need 2+ years in skilled trades
• Either a job offer or a trade certification
• Good language skills

Timeline For Express Entry

Right now, with increased interest:

• Create your profile: Takes about an hour online
• Get invited: Anywhere from 3 weeks to 8 months (depends on your score)
• Apply for permanent residence: 6 months to process after invitation

The reality check: More Americans are applying now, so the minimum scores to get invited are higher than they used to be.

How to Boost Your Score

1. Nail the language tests
   • Take the IELTS or CELPIP for English, or TEF for French. Perfect English scores = 136 points. Even basic French adds 50+ points and really sets you apart.
2. Get your education assessed
   • Use an approved service like WES to assess your US degree. A master’s degree is worth 135 points, and a bachelor’s degree is worth 120 points.
3. Document your work experience carefully
   • You get maximum points (80) for 3+ years of skilled work. Make sure you can prove everything.
4. Consider a provincial nomination.
   • This is the game-changer: it adds 600 points to your score, which basically guarantees you’ll get invited.

Provincial Nominee Programs: Your Secret Weapon

Each Canadian province has the authority to nominate individuals for permanent residence based on their specific needs. These programs are often easier to qualify for than federal programs, and they give you that magic 600-point boost for Express Entry.

Top Provinces for Americans

Ontario (includes Toronto)

• Tech workers: Special streams for IT professionals
• Master’s graduates: Fast track for recent grads
• Entrepreneurs: For business-minded folks

British Columbia (includes Vancouver)

• Skilled workers: Multiple categories
• Tech pilot: Fast processing for in-demand jobs
• Entrepreneurs: Investment-based options

Alberta (includes Calgary)

• Tech pathway: Accelerated for tech workers
• Rural renewal: For smaller communities
• Self-employed farmers: Agricultural focus

Nova Scotia (includes Halifax)

• Physicians: Special stream for doctors
• Critical workers: In-demand occupations
• Entrepreneurs: Business investment options

How Provincial Programs Work

1. Apply to the province (takes 2-6 months)
2. Get nominated (they send you a certificate)
3. Apply for permanent residence with the federal government (6 months)

Family Sponsorship: The Straightforward Route

If you have family in Canada who are citizens or permanent residents, family sponsorship might be your easiest path.

Who Can Sponsor You

Definitely can sponsor:

• Your spouse or common-law partner
• Your dependent children
• Your parents and grandparents (through a yearly lottery)

Sometimes can sponsor:

• Siblings, aunts, uncles (only in specific situations)

What Your Sponsor Needs to Prove

• They’re a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
• They meet income requirements
• They’ll sign a promise to support you financially

Work Permits: Get Your Foot in the Door

A work permit lets you temporarily live and work in Canada while you decide on permanent residence. Many Americans use this as a stepping stone.

Two Main Types

Employer-specific work permit

• Tied to one specific job
• Your employer needs government approval (called an LMIA)
• Takes 2-6 months to process

Open work permit

• Work for any employer
• Available if your spouse has a skilled worker permit
• Takes 4-6 months to process

How to Get a Job Offer

Where to look:

• Indeed Canada, Workopolis, Monster.ca
• LinkedIn networking (seriously, this works)
• Recruitment agencies in your field
• Apply directly to companies you want to work for

Learn how to file both US and Canada taxes if you take this path.

Study Your Way to Canada

Attending school on a student visa in Canada can be a great way to reach your goal of permanent residency, particularly through the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program.

Why the Student Route Works

While you study:

• Work up to 20 hours per week
• Get to know the country and build connections
• Boost your Express Entry points with a Canadian education

After you graduate:

• Get a work permit for 1-3 years (depends on your program length)
• Gain that valuable “Canadian experience”
• Apply for permanent residence with way better chances

The Path from Student to Resident

1. Apply through Express Entry or a provincial program
2. Study in Canada (1-4 years, depending on your program)
3. Get your post-graduation work permit (1-3 years)
4. Work and gain Canadian experience

See what documents you’ll need to file your Canadian tax return.

Business Immigration: For Entrepreneurs

If you’re business-minded, Canada has several programs for entrepreneurs and investors.

Start-up Visa Program

• For: People with innovative business ideas
• Need: Support from a designated Canadian organization
• Investment: Varies depending on who backs you
• Timeline: 12-16 months to process

Self-Employed Persons Program

• For: Farmers, artists, athletes who can be self-employed
• Need: Relevant experience and intention to work for yourself
• Timeline: About 25 months to process

Provincial Business Programs

Each province has investor and entrepreneur options with different investment requirements (anywhere from $100,000 to $2 million+).

Understand how your investments may be taxed under Canada’s attribution and capital gains rules.

Temporary Resident Permit

For those who aren’t yet ready to commit to permanent residency, applying for a temporary resident visa can be a great way to explore the country. It allows you to live in Canada temporarily, and once you’re there, you can explore other immigration options.

The Real Cost: What You Actually Need to Budget

Let’s talk money. Understanding the real costs helps you plan effectively and avoid unexpected expenses.

The Real Cost: Budgeting Your Move

Item	Cost (CAD)
Express Entry Fee	$1,365
Language Tests	$300–400
Education Assessment	$200–300
Proof of Funds (1 person)	$14,690+
Initial settlement costs	$3,000–5,000+

Living Costs by City

City	Rent (1BR)	Total Budget
Toronto	$2,200–2,800	$3,500–4,500
Vancouver	$2,000–2,600	$3,300–4,200
Calgary	$1,200–1,600	$2,200–3,000
Montreal	$1,000–1,400	$2,000–2,700

Proof of Funds (Money you must show you have)

Canada wants to see that you can support yourself:

• 1 person: $14,690 CAD
• 2 people: $18,288 CAD
• 3 people: $22,483 CAD
• 4 people: $27,297 CAD
• Each additional person: $4,814 CAD

Real Settlement Costs (What you’ll actually spend)

• Hotel/Airbnb while you find a place: $100-200 CAD per night (plan for 1-4 weeks)
• First apartment (first/last month rent): Varies by city
• Furniture and basics: $2,000-5,000 CAD
• Car if you need one: $15,000-30,000 CAD
• Professional licensing (if required): $500-2,000 CAD

Monthly Living Costs by City

Toronto, Ontario

• 1-bedroom apartment: $2,200-2,800 CAD/month
• Groceries: $400-600 CAD/month
• Public transit pass: $156 CAD/month
• Total monthly budget: $3,500-4,500 CAD

Vancouver, British Columbia

• 1-bedroom apartment: $2,000-2,600 CAD/month
• Groceries: $450-650 CAD/month
• Transit pass: $151 CAD/month
• Total monthly budget: $3,300-4,200 CAD

Calgary, Alberta

• 1-bedroom apartment: $1,200-1,600 CAD/month
• Groceries: $350-500 CAD/month
• Transit pass: $109 CAD/month
• Total monthly budget: $2,200-3,000 CAD

Ottawa, Ontario

• 1-bedroom apartment: $1,400-1,800 CAD/month
• Groceries: $350-500 CAD/month
• Transit pass: $122 CAD/month
• Total monthly budget: $2,500-3,200 CAD

Montreal, Quebec

• 1-bedroom apartment: $1,000-1,400 CAD/month
• Groceries: $300-450 CAD/month
• Transit pass: $97 CAD/month
• Total monthly budget: $2,000-2,700 CAD

Moving with Limited Money? Here’s How

Worried about the costs? You have options:

1. Start with studying – student loans might cover education and living costs
2. Get a work permit first – start earning Canadian income before applying for permanent residence
3. Consider smaller cities – lower costs and sometimes easier immigration paths
4. Look at provincial programs – some have lower financial requirements
5. Factor in family help – if family can assist with initial costs

Best Places to Live in Canada

Choosing where to live significantly impacts both your immigration options and your overall quality of life. Here’s the real scoop on the top destinations for Americans.

1. Toronto, Ontario

Population: 2.8 million
Best for: Finance, tech, business professionals who want big city energy

Why Americans love it:

• Tons of job opportunities
• Incredibly diverse – you’ll find communities from everywhere
• Great restaurants, culture, and nightlife
• Easy flights back to the US

The reality check:

• Expensive housing market (like really expensive)
• Competitive job market
• Winters are cold but manageable

Immigration advantage: Ontario has tech-focused programs, huge job market

2. Vancouver, British Columbia

Population: 675,000
Best for: Tech workers, outdoor lovers, people who hate harsh winters

Why it’s amazing:

• Mountains and ocean literally at your doorstep
• Mild climate (for Canada)
• Booming tech industry
• Stunning natural beauty

The downsides:

• Housing costs are brutal
• Job market is competitive
• Rains a lot in winter

Immigration advantage: BC has tech pilot programs, close to US border

3. Calgary, Alberta

Population: 1.3 million
Best for: Energy sector workers, families, outdoor enthusiasts on a budget

What’s great:

• Strong economy with good job opportunities
• Lower taxes than most provinces
• Hour drive to the Rocky Mountains
• Family-friendly with great schools

Consider this:

• Economy can be volatile (oil-dependent)
• Winters are seriously cold
• Less diverse than Toronto/Vancouver

Immigration advantage: Alberta tech programs, much more affordable

4. Ottawa, Ontario

Population: 1 million
Best for: Government workers, tech professionals, families who want stability

The advantages:

• Stable, government-focused economy
• Excellent schools and public services
• Cultural attractions and museums
• More affordable than Toronto

Keep in mind:

• Smaller job market outside government
• Cold winters
• Less nightlife than bigger cities

Immigration advantage: Good balance of opportunities and affordability

5. Halifax, Nova Scotia

Population: 440,000
Best for: People wanting smaller city life, ocean lovers, entrepreneurs

What’s appealing:

• Beautiful coastal location
• Friendly, welcoming community
• Growing tech and startup scene
• Much more affordable

The reality:

• Limited job market
• Harsh winters
• Fewer cultural amenities

Immigration advantage: Nova Scotia programs, less competition

6. Montreal, Quebec

Population: 1.8 million
Best for: Artists, students, people who love culture and affordable living

Why people love it:

• Much cheaper than Toronto/Vancouver
• Amazing food and arts scene
• European atmosphere in North America
• Vibrant festivals and nightlife

The challenges:

• French is helpful for many jobs
• Different immigration system (Quebec has its own)
• Cold winters

Immigration advantage: Quebec’s unique system is very affordable

Your Step-by-Step Action Plan

Ready to do this? Here’s precisely how to approach it:

Phase 1: Get Ready (2-6 months)

Month 1-2:

• Take language tests (IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF if you want French points)
• Research which pathway fits you best
• Begin gathering documents (such as birth certificates, transcripts, etc.).

Month 3-4:

• Get your education assessed by an approved organization
• Create your Express Entry profile (if going that route)
• Research specific provinces if considering provincial programs

Months 5-6:

• Gather remaining documents (police certificates take time)
• Research cities and job markets
• Start building your financial proof

Phase 2: Apply (1-6 months)

If Express Entry:

• Wait for the invitation (could be weeks or months)
• Submit a complete application within 60 days of the invitation
• Provide biometrics and medical exam

If Provincial Program:

• Submit the application to the province first
• Wait for the nomination
• Then apply federally

If other programs:

• Follow specific timelines for work permits, family sponsorship, etc.

Phase 3: Wait and Prepare (6-25 months, depending on program)

While waiting:

• Respond quickly to any government requests
• Research your destination city in detail
• Start job searching if you don’t have work lined up
• Plan your move logistics

Phase 4: Make the Move (1-3 months)

Before you go:

• Arrange temporary accommodation
• Set up a Canadian bank account
• Research neighborhoods to live

First weeks in Canada:

• Get your Social Insurance Number (like a US Social Security number)
• Apply for provincial health insurance
• Get Canadian phone number
• Start apartment hunting

The Tax Reality: What Americans Need to Know Before Moving

Here’s something most immigration guides don’t cover well enough: moving to Canada creates complex tax situations in both countries. Understanding this before you move can save you thousands and prevent major headaches later.

The Big Picture: You’ll Deal with Two Tax Systems

US obligations continue:

• You’ll still file US taxes every year as a citizen
• Report your Canadian income to the IRS
• Follow US rules for foreign bank accounts and investments

Compare Canada vs. US tax systems

Canadian obligations begin:

• File Canadian taxes as a resident
• Pay Canadian tax on your worldwide income
• Navigate different tax years, deadlines, and rules

Key Planning Considerations Before You Move

Timing your move matters

• Which part of the year you become a Canadian resident affects both countries’ taxes
• Moving mid-year creates partial-year resident complications
• Strategic timing can minimize your overall tax burden

Retirement accounts get tricky

• Your 401(k) and IRA have different treatments in Canada
• Canadian RRSPs and TFSAs have complex US reporting requirements
• Cross-border transfers require careful planning

Investment implications

• What’s tax-free in Canada might not be in the US (and vice versa)
• Currency fluctuations affect your tax calculations
• Some investment types work better than others for dual-country residents

Why Professional Guidance Matters

This isn’t a DIY situation. The interaction between the US and Canadian tax systems is complex, and mistakes can be expensive. Getting advice before you move, not after, can:

• Save significant money through proper planning
• Prevent compliance issues in both countries
• Structure your finances optimally for your new situation
• Avoid common costly mistakes

Curious how Canadian taxes work—and how to file from abroad?
Greenback prepares Canadian returns for U.S. expats and dual citizens. Learn what’s included in our Canada tax service.

For detailed information about ongoing tax obligations after your move, check out our Canada Tax Guide for US Citizens, which covers everything from filing requirements to specific deductions available to American expatriates in Canada.

Bottom line: Budget for tax consultation as part of your moving costs. Proper planning pays for itself many times over.

Documents You’ll Actually Need

Let’s get specific about paperwork. Start gathering these early:

Essential Documents

• Valid passport (make sure it won’t expire soon)
• Birth certificate (certified copy)
• Marriage certificate (if married)
• Divorce papers (if applicable)
• Police certificates from everywhere you’ve lived 6+ months since age 18

Education and Work Proof

• All diplomas and transcripts (official copies)
• Education assessment from approved Canadian organization
• Language test results (IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF)
• Employment letters detailing job duties, salary, dates
• Professional licenses (if you have them)

Financial Documentation

• Bank statements (last 6 months)
• Investment account statements
• Proof you meet financial requirements
• Tax returns (last 3 years)
• Employment income proof

Health Requirements

• Medical exam by approved doctor
• Vaccination records
• Medical history (if relevant to your application)

What Life in Canada is Actually Like

Moving to any new country involves adjustments. Here are the key things that directly affect your immigration planning:

Healthcare System Basics

Canada has universal healthcare, which means:

• No health insurance requirement for immigration applications (unlike some countries)
• Coverage begins when you become a resident
• Factor into your budget: Some services aren’t covered, and most employers provide supplemental insurance

Work Culture Expectations

Understanding Canadian work culture helps with job searching and interviews:

• Work-life balance is genuinely prioritized
• Vacation time starts at 2 weeks minimum, often 3-4 weeks
• Parental leave up to 18 months available
• Professional networking is important and accessible

Diversity and Integration

Canada’s diversity affects your settlement experience:

• Official multiculturalism policy
• Strong immigrant communities provide support networks
• Two official languages – English and French
• Cultural events year-round help with integration

Planning tip: Research expat communities and professional associations in your target city before applying. Having connections helps with both job searching and settlement.

Avoiding the Common Mistakes

Learn from others’ errors:

Application Mistakes That Hurt

• Incomplete paperwork – missing documents delay everything
• Inconsistent information – make sure all forms match
• Missing deadlines – government timelines are strict
• Insufficient financial proof – show more money than the minimum
• Poor language scores – invest in test prep

Settlement Mistakes to Avoid

• Underestimating initial costs – budget more than you think
• Choosing the wrong city – research thoroughly before deciding
• Delaying credential recognition – start professional licensing early
• Ignoring tax obligations – get advice before problems arise
• Not building networks – isolation makes everything harder

Financial Planning Errors

• Bad currency exchange timing – plan for rate fluctuations
• Banking delays – set up Canadian accounts quickly
• Credit history confusion – understand how to build Canadian credit
• Insurance gaps – maintain coverage during transition
• Retirement planning mistakes – understand how the move affects your savings

Timing Your Application in Today’s Environment

With more Americans applying since late 2024, here’s how to navigate the current landscape:

Current Reality Check

What’s changed:

• Higher application volume across most programs
• Increased demand for immigration services
• More competitive scoring in points-based systems
• Longer wait times for appointments and consultations

What hasn’t changed:

• Canada plans to welcome 395,000 new immigrants in 2025, with continued high targets through 2027
• Programs and requirements remain the same
• Processing times for most programs are stable
• Multiple pathways still available

Smart Strategies for Right Now

Get ahead of the crowd:

• Start language testing immediately
• Begin credential assessments early
• Consider multiple provinces and programs
• Have all documentation ready before applying

Competitive advantages:

• Perfect language scores make a huge difference
• Consider learning basic French for extra points
• Look at less popular but great provinces
• Network within Canadian professional communities

Realistic timeline for 2025-2026:

• Summer 2025: Begin preparation and testing
• Fall 2025: Submit applications
• 2026: Expect processing and potential arrival

FAQs: Common Questions About Moving to Canada

• Why are so many Americans interested in moving to Canada now?
  • Interest in moving to Canada has surged, particularly after the 2024 US election results. Many Americans are considering a move for a fresh start, better healthcare, job opportunities, or simply a change in lifestyle.
• Is it more difficult to immigrate to Canada now due to increased applications?
  • More competition means higher minimum scores for Express Entry and potentially longer wait times for some services. However, Canada maintains its commitment to welcoming 395,000 new immigrants in 2025 (380,000 in 2026, 365,000 in 2027) under their official Immigration Levels Plan. The key is making your application as competitive as possible with strong language scores and complete documentation.
• Can US citizens just move to Canada?
  • No, you need to go through proper immigration processes. However, Americans often have advantages like English proficiency and education that make them strong candidates for various programs.
• How hard is it to move to Canada from the US?
  • It depends on your qualifications, but Americans with college education, skilled work experience, and strong English often find the process manageable. The key is choosing the right pathway and preparing thoroughly.
• How much money do I need to move to Canada?
  • Costs can vary, but it’s recommended to have savings to cover initial living expenses for at least six months. This includes housing, food, and general living costs.
• Can I keep my US citizenship if I move to Canada?
  • Yes, you can hold dual citizenship. Moving to Canada does not require you to give up your US citizenship.
• How long does it take to become a Canadian citizen?
  • After obtaining permanent residency, you need to live in Canada for at least three out of five years before you can apply for citizenship.

Ready to Start Your Canadian Immigration Journey?

Moving to Canada is a significant decision, but with the right preparation and guidance, it’s absolutely achievable. Whether you’re just starting to explore your options or ready to begin applications, having expert support makes the process much smoother.

Greenback Expat Tax Services specializes in helping Americans navigate their tax requirements when moving to Canada. Our Canada-US tax experts can help you:

• Plan your move timing for optimal tax outcomes
• Understand pre-move considerations for retirement accounts and investments
• Structure your finances before establishing Canadian residency
• Avoid common costly mistakes during the transition