How to Immigrate to Canada from the US - Study Permits and International Experience Canada
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.
There are two temporary resident options for young people (primarily under 35) that may allow Americans to work and/or study in Canada under specific conditions. Work experience gained through temporary work can also be used in Express Entry and PNPs, however, every year over age thirty removes at least 5 points from the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score for age, so don’t wait too long. Keep reading to understand how youth may come to Canada.
Studying in Canada can help students position themselves for a permanent residence option further down the road and allows them to remain in the country for the duration of their program. If studying in an eligible program, students are eligible for a 3-year post-graduate work permit at the end that would allow them to gain Canadian work experience, which will give them CRS points in the Express Entry system. A Canadian degree also adds to the CRS points. It’s a longer path to a permanent solution, but with patience and planning it can be a good option.
There isn’t an age limit on studying as an international student in Canada, but the study plan must make sense to IRCC in light of your education and work experience and, if the goal is permanent residence down the road, you need to make sure there’s a good chance of being eligible and likely to achieve this. The closer to 45 you are, the fewer CRS points you receive, meaning you’ll need to find points elsewhere
Pros of Immigrating to Canada through Study Permits
Relatively short processing time
Can often work on and off campus (some restrictions)
Contributes to Canadian Experience Class (CEC) and Permanent Residence (PR) in the future
Can lead to 3-year open work permit
Cons of Immigrating to Canada through Study Permits
Must progress toward degree
Off-campus work limited to 24 hours/week
Is temporary
Must meet financial requirements
International Experience Canada (IEC)
This program allows youth ages 18-35 (18-30 for some countries) to work and travel in Canada. There isn’t a direct International Experience Canada (IEC) program with the US, but those interested in working for 1-2 years can apply through a Recognized Organization, such as IAESTE. With a couple of years of work experience, gained by combining the Working Holiday and Young Professionals programs they may be eligible for one of the permanent economic programs through Express Entry or a PNP. As with studying, it’s a longer path to a permanent solution, but it could work with the right kind of plan and strategy. Work permits are granted for 1 year per program and can’t be renewed but programs can be combined.
Pros of Immigrating to Canada through IEC
Can work for almost any employer
Can sometimes switch category
Potential for CEC eligibility
Cons of Immigrating to Canada through IEC
Low acceptance – apply early (November for the coming year)
Can’t be extended
Only 1 application per season
May require a job offer
At COMPASS Immigration 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.