American and Canadian Flags

U.S. Permanent Resident Moving to Canada?

This post may contain affiliate links which means I may receive a commission for purchases made through links- to no additional cost to you. I will only recommend products that I have personally used, or am confident enough to introduce you to. Learn more on my Private Policy page.

U.S. Permanent Resident Moving to Canada

Are you a U.S. permanent resident moving to Canada? This may be something you have considered. Whether you’re keen for a change of scenery or simply want to be closer to your Canadian relatives, there are a few things you need to know before making a move.

American Moving to Canada: The Process

The process for a US permanent resident moving to Canada can be a daunting one. However, it can be a relatively smooth process with the right amount of preparation and following the proper steps.

The first step is to gather all of the necessary information and documentation. This includes:

  • your passport
  • birth certificate
  • work history
  • education history
  • and language ability.

You will also need to provide information on your spouse’s or common-law partner’s information (if applicable).

Once you have gathered all this information, you must submit an application through the IRCC website. You will be assigned a points score based on your qualifications under the Comprehensive Ranking System. This score will determine whether you are eligible to move to Canada as a US permanent resident.

If you are eligible, the next step is to apply for permanent residency. This can be done through the IRCC website as well. If you are approved, you will receive a Permanent Resident Card which allows you to live and work in Canada.

Canadian Permanent Residence Programs

There are several different ways to become a permanent resident of Canada. The most popular programs allow people to move to Canada based on their skills and experience. These programs are called the Economic Class Programs.

There are several different Economic Class Programs, but the most popular is the Express Entry Program. To be eligible for the Express Entry Program, you must meet some criteria, including having a valid job offer from a Canadian employer or being nominated by a province or territory.

If you meet the eligibility criteria, you will enter a pool of candidates. Candidates in the pool are then ranked based on several factors, including their age, education, work experience, and language skills. The highest-ranking candidates are then invited to apply for permanent residence.

You can use the free assessment tool on the Citizenship and Immigration Canada website to determine if you are eligible for the Express Entry Program.

To get started, US permanent residents moving to Canada can submit an Express Entry profile to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the government department responsible for processing applications. Candidates will be assessed to determine their eligibility for at least one of these programs.

  • The Federal Skilled Worker Program
  • The Federal Skilled Trades Program
  • The Canadian Experience Class

Is Moving to Canada a Good Idea?

Firstly, it’s important to remember that although Canada is often thought of as very similar to the US, there are still some significant differences. For instance:

  • Canadian healthcare is government-funded, so you won’t have to worry about expensive medical bills.
  • Canada has a lower overall cost of living than the US, which can be a significant advantage if you’re on a budget.
  • The climate in Canada varies considerably from region to region, so you’ll need to be prepared for everything from cold winters to hot summers.
  • Tipping is not expected in restaurants, and bargaining is not common when shopping.

Overall, being a US permanent resident moving to Canada can be the beginning of an exciting path, especially if you’re looking for a change of pace. The country has a lot to offer in terms of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and quality of life. With a bit of research and preparation, you should be able to easily adjust to life in Canada.