How to Immigrate to Canada from the US - Out of the Box Options
Canadian Immigration Options Available to Americans (and potentially other foreign nationals).
At COMPASS Immigration Solutions, we understand the growing demand for clear, reliable guidance on Canadian immigration for US citizens. It is important to note that no specific immigration programs exist solely for Americans; however, a variety of pathways are available. This blog series will identify the programs applicable to US citizens to move to Canada, detailing the pros and cons of each, and providing the essential knowledge required to navigate your potential move to Canada successfully.
In this final post directed at Americans we shift our focus to out-of-the-box temporary options that aren’t usually ideal because of the need for a job offer or language skills that those living outside of Canada usually don’t have. For those with networks in Canada and second or third language skills, they may be viable options. As with the CUSMA work permits, work experience gained through temporary work can also be used in the Express Entry system and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). Keep reading to see if you might be eligible.
LMIA-based Work Permit
If you don’t qualify for any other type of open work permit that allows you to work for almost any employer and you have a job offer, your potential employer can apply for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) for approval to hire you. This assessment determines whether hiring a foreign worker in a particular job would negatively impact the Canadian labour market. A neutral or positive decision allows an employer to hire a foreign worker who may then apply for a work permit for 1 to 3 years depending on the job, wage and location.
Pros of Immigrating to Canada through LMIA Based Work Permit
Work experience contributes to Canadian Experience Class (CEC) if aligned with TEER
Cons of Immigrating to Canada through LMIA Based Work Permit
Can be a lengthy and costly process for employer
Must work for a named employer
Charitable Worker
If you do work of a charitable nature and have a job offer from a Canadian employer, you could be eligible for a work permit of up to 2 years with that employer. This work permit is LMIA-exempt, but requires a job offer and a short employer application to start the process.
Pros of Immigrating to Canada through Charitable Work
No LMIA required
Work experience can contribute to CEC
Cons of Immigrating to Canada through Charitable Work
Must work for a named employer
Definition of charitable work is specific
French
Canada is attempting to increase the French-speaking population outside of Quebec. If you have low-intermediate French skills and a job offer from a Canadian employer, this one’s for you. There is no expectation that the employer be French-speaking or that you work in French. You just need to demonstrate NCLC 5 French on a test. There is no LMIA required but the employer must submit a short application to IRCC.
Pros of Immigrating to Canada through French language
Fairly low bar
Open to almost any sector or job
Work experience can contribute to CEC (if aligned with TEER)
Cons of Immigrating to Canada through French language
Must work for a named employer
These out-of-the-box options can work well for the right person. If you have a job offer in Canada (with or without French skills), reach out to us at COMPASS Immigration Solutions for support with your application.
We understand these pathways can be complex. We are here to help discuss the best possible solutions for you in your immigration journey. Book a 30 or 60 minute session with us to find the path to immigration that works best for your unique circumstances.