How to move to Canada: A step-by-step guide for US Citizens

Dreaming of maple leaves, poutine, and universal healthcare? If you’re a US citizen with your sights set on moving to Canada, you’re not alone. Canada’s allure is undeniable, whether you’re chasing career opportunities, reuniting with family, or simply craving a change of scenery. But moving to another country isn’t as simple as packing your bags and waving goodbye to Uncle Sam.

This guide will be a guide as you navigate the exciting journey of moving to Canada. We’ll unravel the legal red tape on how to move to Canada, crunch the numbers, and give you the inside scoop on what it’s really like living in Canada as a US citizen.

Legal ways to move to Canada

If you’re looking for the easiest ways to immigrate to Canada from the US, it’s going to depend a lot on your specific situation. Here are some of the several programs that allow US citizens to legally relocate to Canada:

Express Entry Program (For skilled workers)

Designed for skilled workers who want to immigrate to Canada permanently, the Express Entry program uses a points-based system to assess candidates based on factors like age, education, language proficiency, and work experience.

Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

Each Canadian province has its own Provincial Nominee Program, which allows them to nominate candidates for permanent residence based on local labor market needs. US citizens with skills and experience in high-demand fields may have a better chance of being nominated.

Family Sponsorship

Citizens and permanent residents of Canada can sponsor certain family members, including spouses, common-law partners, dependent children, and parents or grandparents, to move to Canada.

Work permits and job offers

Securing a valid job offer from a Canadian employer can make it easier to obtain a work permit and eventually transition to permanent residence.

Study permit and pathway to permanent residency

US citizens can apply for a study permit to attend a Canadian educational institution. After completing their studies, they may be eligible for a post-graduation work permit, which can lead to permanent residence.

Temporary resident permit

In some cases, US citizens may be granted a temporary resident permit to enter or stay in Canada despite not meeting the usual requirements.

Of these options, the Express Entry program is generally considered one of the fastest ways to move to Canada from the US for skilled workers. Here’s why:

• Processing time: Express Entry applications are typically processed within six months or less. This is significantly faster than most other immigration pathways.
• Streamlined process: The Express Entry system is designed to be efficient and user-friendly. It uses a points-based system (Comprehensive Ranking System or CRS) to rank candidates, with the highest-scoring candidates receiving Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residence.
• Frequency of draws: IRCC conducts Express Entry draws regularly, often every two weeks, increasing the chances of receiving an ITA if you meet the minimum CRS score cutoff.
• No job offer required: While a valid job offer can boost your CRS score, it’s not mandatory for Express Entry, unlike other immigration pathways.
• Multiple programs: Express Entry manages applications for three federal economic immigration programs: Federal Skilled Worker Program, Canadian Experience Class, and Federal Skilled Trades Program. This gives candidates multiple options to qualify.

NOTE! While Express Entry is generally the fastest option, processing times can vary based on many factors. Additionally, if you have a provincial nomination through a PNP aligned with Express Entry, you can receive an additional 600 CRS points, significantly increasing your chances of receiving an ITA.

Here’s a quick glance table comparing the various pros and cons of different immigration pathways to Canada, along with typical processing times:

Step-by-step process to move to Canada

If you're considering immigrating to Canada, here's a guide to help you navigate the process:

1. Determine your eligibility

The first step in moving to Canada is to research these programs thoroughly and assess which one best fits your situation. Use the official Canadian government's eligibility tool to get a preliminary assessment of your chances.

Assess your eligibility for various immigration programs and see which is best for you, as each has its own set of requirements:

• Express Entry System: This is the most popular and fastest route for skilled workers. It manages applications for three federal economic immigration programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class.
• Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): Each Canadian province has its own PNP, allowing them to nominate candidates based on local labor market needs.
• Family Sponsorship: Canadian citizens or permanent residents can sponsor certain family members.
• Work permits: If you have a job offer from a Canadian employer, you may be eligible for a work permit.
• Study permits: International students can apply for a study permit to attend a Canadian educational institution.

2. Gather required documents

Once you've identified the right immigration program for you, start collecting the necessary documents. These typically include:

- valid passport or travel document
- language proficiency test results (e.g., IELTS or CELPIP for English, TEF for French)
- educational credentials and their Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)
- proof of work experience
- police clearance certificates
- medical examination results
- proof of funds to support yourself and your family in Canada

NOTE! Ensure all documents are translated into English or French by a certified translator if they're in another language.

3. Submit your application

After gathering all required documents, you can proceed with your application:

1. Create an online account with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
2. Fill out the application form accurately and completely.
3. Upload all required documents.
4. Pay the application fees. As of 2025, the fee for a single applicant is 1,365 CAD (960 USD), but this can vary based on the program and the number of family members included.
5. Submit your application and wait for IRCC to process it.

Pro tip: Keep copies of all documents submitted and regularly check your IRCC account for updates or requests for additional information.

4. Prepare for the move

If your application is approved, you'll receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence. At this stage, start preparing for your move to Canada:

1. Arrange housing: Research different cities and neighborhoods in Canada (more on this below). Consider factors like cost of living, job opportunities, and lifestyle preferences.
2. Finances: Open a Canadian bank account and transfer funds. The government suggests bringing 17,000 CAD (12,000 USD) for individuals, 23,000 CAD (16,200 USD) for couples, and 28,000–33,000 CAD (19,700–23,300 USD) for families with children.
3. Employment: Start job hunting if you don't already have a job offer. Update your resume to Canadian standards and familiarize yourself with the Canadian job market.
4. Healthcare: Research the healthcare system in your chosen province or territory. You may need to wait up to three months before being eligible for public health insurance, so consider private health insurance for the interim period.
5. Education: If you have children, research schools in your area and understand the enrollment process.
6. Social Insurance Number (SIN): Apply for a SIN as soon as you arrive in Canada. This is crucial for employment and accessing government services.

Financial considerations and taxes

Moving to Canada from the US involves various financial considerations that require careful planning and understanding, not least of which is knowing what the IRS requires. As of 2025, here are the key aspects to keep in mind:

Moving costs and initial setup

Relocating to Canada can be costly. According to recent data, individuals should budget at least 15,300 USD (21,600 CAD) for the move, while a family of four may need up to 27,600 USD (39,000 CAD). These costs include transportation, temporary housing, and initial living expenses.

Banking and currency exchange

Opening a Canadian bank account is crucial for managing your finances. As of 2025, major Canadian banks offer specialized newcomer packages with benefits like no-fee banking for a limited time and assistance in establishing a credit history. When exchanging currency, be mindful of exchange rates and potential fees. As of February 2025, the Canadian dollar remains slightly weaker than the US dollar, which can impact your purchasing power.

Cost of living comparison

The cost of living in Canada is generally about 10% more expensive than in the US. Housing costs in major cities like Toronto and Vancouver remain high, with the average home prices exceeding 750,000 CAD (529,400 USD). However, healthcare costs are typically lower due to Canada's public healthcare system.

Tax obligations

Living in Canada as a US citizen, you'll have tax obligations in both countries:

1. Canadian taxes: You'll become a tax resident if you spend 183 days or more in Canada during a tax year. The Canadian tax year runs from January 1 to December 31, with returns due by April 30.
2. US taxes: US citizens must continue filing US tax returns regardless of residence with forms such as Form 1040 and Form 2555. For the 2025 tax year, the filing deadline for expats is June 16, 2025, with an automatic two-month extension from the regular April 15 deadline.
3. Tax treaties: The US-Canada Tax Treaty helps prevent double taxation. You may be eligible for foreign tax credits or exclusions to offset taxes paid to Canada.
4. FBAR filing: If you have foreign financial accounts exceeding 10,000 USD (14,100 CAD) at any point during the year, you must file an FBAR by April 15, 2025, with an automatic extension to October 15, 2025.

Pro tip: Start your financial planning well in advance of your move. Discussing your plans with professionals like Taxes For Expats can help you optimize your investments and retirement plans for your new life in Canada.

Living in Canada as a US citizen

US citizens moving from the US to Canada will find plenty of similarities but also some notable differences between the two countries:

Healthcare system

Canada's publicly funded healthcare system, known as Medicare, differs significantly from the US system. US citizens can access this system after obtaining permanent residence or a work permit and meeting provincial residency requirements. Key points include:

- universal coverage for medically necessary services
- longer wait times for non-emergency procedures compared to the US
- prescription drugs are not universally covered, though some provinces offer drug plans

IMPORTANT NOTE! There may be a waiting period of up to three months before new residents can access provincial health insurance.

Housing market

Housing costs and availability vary greatly by city and province:

- major cities like Toronto and Vancouver have notoriously high housing costs
- smaller cities and rural areas often offer more affordable options
- some provinces have rent control policies that protect tenants

It is important to research the local housing market thoroughly before moving, considering factors like proximity to work and amenities.

Job market and cost of living

Canada boasts a strong job market, but it's important to understand the local economy and cost of living when seeking employment:

- sectors such as healthcare, technology, and skilled trades are in high demand
- the Canadian job market may be more competitive in some fields compared to the US
- salaries in Canada are often lower than in the US but are offset by lower healthcare costs and other social benefits
- higher prices for consumer goods in some categories

Understanding these differences can help US citizens better prepare for their move to Canada and ease the transition. Get a good understanding of the specific aspects relevant to your situation and carry out plenty of research on the area you plan to live in to ensure a smooth relocation process.

What are the best cities for US expats in Canada?

When considering the best cities for US expats in Canada, several factors come into play, including quality of life, job opportunities, cultural fit, and accessibility. Here's an overview of some top choices:

• Toronto, Ontario
  As Canada's largest city, Toronto offers a dynamic blend of opportunities:
  
  - ranked 15th globally in the World Happiness Report
  - diverse population, with over 50% born outside Canada
  - strong job market, especially in finance, tech, and media
  - excellent public transportation system and direct flights to major US cities

NOTE! While Toronto offers numerous advantages, it has recently faced challenges in affordability and quality of life for younger residents.

• Vancouver, British Columbia
  Known for its stunning natural beauty and mild climate:
  
  - consistently ranks high in global livability surveys
  - thriving tech and film industries
  - outdoor lifestyle with easy access to mountains and ocean
  - (caution) growing concerns about housing affordability
  - direct flights to US West Coast cities
• Montreal, Quebec
  A unique blend of North American and European cultures:
  
  - lower cost of living compared to Toronto and Vancouver
  - rich arts and cultural scene
  - bilingual environment (French and English)
  - (caution) challenges for non-French speakers in some job sectors
  - well-connected to US Northeast cities

Pro tip: Consider factors beyond just the city itself, such as proximity to family in the US, climate preferences, and specific industry opportunities when making your decision.

While these cities offer various advantages, happiness and quality of life can vary greatly based on individual circumstances. Despite recent reports showing a decline in happiness among younger people in Canada, the country still ranks high globally in overall happiness and quality of life metrics.