How to Move to Canada from the US: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide (2025)

Thinking about moving from the US to Canada? It can feel like you’re standing at the edge of a huge, exciting, and slightly overwhelming new chapter. When I was planning my own move from Nigeria, the sheer amount of information felt like a tidal wave. It’s easy to get lost in government websites and legal jargon.

But here’s the good news: the path to move to Canada from the US is well-trodden, and you don’t have to walk it alone. Think of this guide as your friendly map. We’ll break down the complex parts into simple, actionable steps.

📢 2025 Changes:

• PR target: 395,000 (was 485,000)
• Express Entry: Focus on healthcare/trades + Canadians with work permits
• Provincial Nominees: Faster for tech workers (Alberta/BC)

Disclaimer: The information in this guide is for informational purposes only and is based on my personal experience as a newcomer to Canada. It is not legal or immigration advice. Immigration laws and procedures change frequently. Please consult the official Government of Canada website or a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) for advice on your specific situation. Thank you for understanding and happy reading!

What’s the Best Way for a US Citizen to Move to Canada?

For most skilled professionals and workers in the U.S., the most direct path for Americans to immigrate to Canada is through the Express Entry system. This online system is a popular choice that manages applications for several economic immigration programs and offers a fast-track to permanent residency. For a comprehensive overview, read our article about the unique considerations for Americans moving to Canada from the USA.

I know that looking at all the different programs can feel overwhelming, like you’re trying to solve a huge puzzle. But once you understand the main pathways, it becomes much clearer.

In this guide, we’ll break down Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), and other key options so you can find the best fit for your situation.

Which Immigration Pathway is Right for You?

Of course. Here is that information formatted as a markdown table:

Pathway	Best For…	Key Requirement
Express Entry	Skilled professionals with strong scores in age, education, and language.	A high Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)	Individuals whose skills are in demand in a specific province.	A nomination from a Canadian province or territory.
CUSMA/USMCA Work Permit	US citizens in specific professional occupations (e.g., engineers, consultants).	A job offer in a qualifying profession.
Family Sponsorship	Those with a close family member who is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.	An eligible family member to act as a sponsor.

The Main Pathways: Finding Your Route to Canada

Canada offers several immigration programs, but for US citizens, a few stand out. Let’s explore the most common options and their eligibility criteria.

1. Express Entry: The Fast-Track for Skilled Workers

Express Entry is the main system Canada uses to manage permanent residency applications from skilled workers.

It’s not an immigration program itself, but a system that manages three different ones, and understanding the canada express entry requirements for us citizens is the first step in this popular pathway.

How it Works:

1. Create a Profile: You submit a profile online with details about your skills, work experience, language ability, and education. To qualify, your work experience must be in a ‘skilled’ occupation as defined by Canada’s National Occupational Classification (NOC) TEER system, which categorizes jobs based on their duties and requirements.
2. Get a CRS Score: Based on your profile, you are given a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. You can estimate your points using a CRS score calculator to see where you stand.
3. Receive an Invitation: Every few weeks, the Canadian government holds “draws,” inviting candidates with scores above a certain cut-off point to apply for permanent residence.

CRS Points at a Glance (Simplified)

The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) is confusing. This table demystifies it by showing where the most points come from, helping users understand what to prioritize.

How Your CRS Score is Calculated

The total maximum points you can get is 1,200. Your score is a combination of the Core points and the Additional points. This table shows you where the points come from.

Part A: Core CRS Points (Maximum 600 points)

This section is based on your personal profile (and your spouse’s, if applicable).

Factor	With a Spouse or Partner	Without a Spouse or Partner
Your Skills & Experience (Age, Education, Language, Experience)	Max 460 points	Max 500 points
Your Spouse/Partner’s Factors (Education, Language, Experience)	Max 40 points	N/A
Skills Transferability (Strong Language + Education/Experience)	Max 100 points	Max 100 points

Part B: Additional Points (Maximum 600 points)

This section includes specific factors that give your score a significant boost.

Factor	Points
Provincial Nomination	600 points
Study in Canada	15 or 30 points
Strong French Language Skills	25 or 50 points
Sibling Living in Canada (Citizen or PR)	15 points

Source: For a full, detailed breakdown of the points for each factor, please refer to the official Government of Canada’s Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) criteria.

The three programs managed under Express Entry are:

• Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP): This is for skilled workers with at least one year of continuous, full-time foreign work experience in a qualifying occupation. If you’re a professional in the US with a degree and experience, this is likely your starting point.
• Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP): This is for people qualified in a skilled trade (like electricians, plumbers, or chefs). You typically need a valid job offer in Canada or a certificate of qualification from a Canadian province or territory.
• Canadian Experience Class (CEC): This is for individuals who already have at least one year of skilled work experience in Canada. Many people start on a work permit and then transition to permanent residence through this stream.

Tips: How to Boost Your CRS Score 

A higher CRS score is your key to getting an invitation. Here are some actionable ways to increase it:

• Language Skills: Aim for the highest possible score on an approved language test (CELPIP is Canadian-based, while IELTS is more internationally known). Getting a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level of 9 or higher will maximize your points.
• Education: If you have a spouse or common-law partner, their education and language skills can also add points to your profile!
• Work Experience: Ensure you accurately document all of your skilled work experience. More years of experience equals more points, up to a maximum.
• Provincial Nomination: This is the ultimate booster.

💡 The 600-Point Boost

A nomination from a province adds a massive 600 points to your CRS score, virtually guaranteeing you’ll be invited to apply for permanent residency. It’s the single most powerful way to improve your chances.

2. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): The Provincial Boost

If your CRS score isn’t high enough, a PNP is a fantastic alternative. Each province has its own immigration streams to attract workers, students, and entrepreneurs who can fill local economic needs.

For instance, as of mid-2025, Ontario’s Human Capital Priorities stream frequently invites tech professionals with experience in specific roles directly from the Express Entry pool.

Meanwhile, Saskatchewan’s In-Demand Occupation List often includes healthcare, agriculture, and trades roles. Checking the official PNP website for your target province is a crucial first step.

This is a strategic route because it allows you to target a specific region that matches your career and lifestyle goals.

For Americans, some provinces offer a smoother transition, and it’s worth exploring the best places in Canada for U.S. expats to see which one feels like the right fit.

3. CUSMA/USMCA Work Permits: The American Advantage

The Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) makes it much easier for certain US citizens to get a Canadian work permit without needing a lengthy Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).

You can learn more about the requirements for business people under CUSMA on the official government site.

If your profession is on the CUSMA list (this includes a wide range of roles like accountants, engineers, management consultants, and scientists), your Canadian employer may not need a (LMIA).

An LMIA is a document an employer needs to get to prove they need a foreign worker, and the process can be long and expensive. Avoiding it is a major advantage.

4. Family Sponsorship

If you have a spouse, common-law partner, dependent child, parent, or grandparent who is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, they may be able to sponsor you to come to Canada.

The Family Sponsorship program has specific requirements for both the sponsor and the person being sponsored. The process of moving to canada with family has its own unique considerations, especially regarding proof of funds and settlement plans.

This pathway is separate from economic immigration and is focused on family reunification. For complex family situations, some applicants consult with a licensed immigration consultant to ensure their application is in order.

5. The Study-to-Immigrate Pathway

For many, the most effective route to permanent residency is a two-step journey that begins with education. This path involves coming to Canada as an international student and then using your Canadian credentials and work experience to become a permanent resident.

Here’s how it typically works:

1. Get a Study Permit: You first get an acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada and apply for a study permit.
2. Graduate and Get a PGWP: After graduating, you may be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which allows you to work for any employer in Canada for up to three years.
3. Gain Canadian Experience: You use the PGWP to gain at least one year of skilled Canadian work experience.
4. Apply for Permanent Residence: That Canadian experience makes you a very strong candidate for permanent residency through streams like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) within the Express Entry system.

This pathway is highly valued because it shows you are already integrated into Canadian society and the workforce.

First Steps After You Arrive

Once you receive your Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) document and officially land in Canada by presenting it to a Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officer, you’ll need to get set up.

1. Apply for your Permanent Resident Card (PR Card): This will be your official ID in Canada and is required for re-entry into the country.
2. Get your Social Insurance Number (SIN): You cannot get paid by a Canadian employer without a SIN. Book an appointment at a Service Canada location as soon as possible.
3. Open a Canadian Bank Account: This is essential for managing your finances. Many major Canadian banks allow for the opening of a Canadian bank account from the USA, sometimes even before you arrive, which can make your transition much smoother.
4. Set up your phone: You’ll want to get a Canadian phone plan quickly to stay connected and avoid expensive roaming charges.

The Real Cost: Budgeting for Your Move to Canada

It’s essential to plan your finances. Application fees are just the beginning. Here is a more detailed breakdown of potential costs in Canadian Dollars (CAD).

Item	Estimated Cost (per person)	Notes
Language Tests	$300 – $350 CAD	Book your spot in advance, as test centres can fill up quickly.
Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)	$200 – $240 CAD	Do this first! It can take a while for your university to send transcripts. Most US applicants use an organization like World Education Services (WES) for this.
Biometrics	$85 CAD	You’ll likely need to give fingerprints and a photo at an approved location.
Medical Exam	$250 – $450 CAD	Varies by location. Must be done by a doctor on Canada’s list of panel physicians.
Application Processing Fees	$950 CAD	This is the main fee paid to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Right of Permanent Residence Fee	$575 CAD	Paid upon final approval, before you officially land.
Proof of Settlement Funds	$14,690 CAD (for one person)	This is your ‘nest egg.’ You need to prove you have it, but you’ll also need it for rent deposits and setup costs. Check the official Proof of Funds requirements as they are updated annually.Having a solid grasp of your finances is non-negotiable, so we’ve broken down exactly how to financially prepare for your move to Canada in another detailed guide.

Common Mistakes US Applicants Make (And How to Avoid Them)

Drawing from my own experience and that of many newcomers, here are a few common pitfalls for Americans moving north:

1. Assuming Your US Credit Score Will Transfer: It won’t.
2. Underestimating Winter: I’m not just talking about the cold. Winter impacts everything from your utility bills (hello, hydro costs!) to your commute. Invest in proper, waterproof, insulated winter gear from a Canadian retailer like Mark’s or Atmosphere —your $50 coat from back home might not be enough.
3. Not Understanding Sales Tax: In the US, you’re used to state sales tax. In Canada, you’ll pay federal Goods and Services Tax (GST) or a Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) that combines federal and provincial taxes. This can be up to 15% depending on the province, so factor that into your budget.
4. Not Planning for Your Pet’s Move: Canada has specific rules for importing animals, including requirements for rabies vaccinations and health certificates. The process for moving to canada with pets is straightforward but requires advance planning to ensure a smooth border crossing for your furry family member.

⚠️ Credit Score Shock

Your US credit score will not transfer to Canada. You will be starting from scratch, which can be a shock. We strongly recommend making it a priority to build up your Canadian credit score as soon as you arrive to make renting, getting a phone plan, and even car insurance easier.

A Realistic Look: Is Moving to Canada Worth It for an American?

The answer can depend heavily on where you land. For an American living in Canada, the experience of moving to Vancouver from the US will be vastly different from settling in a smaller town when it comes to cost and lifestyle.

Before you start filling out forms, it’s worth taking a moment to consider the big picture. Moving to Canada isn’t just a change of address; it’s a significant life change with real trade-offs. You can learn about the everyday things that are different in Canada to help you get ready.

On Reddit and in newcomer forums, this is the most common topic of conversation. Here’s an honest look at the pros and cons many Americans discuss after they’ve made the move:

The Potential Upsides:

• A Different Social Fabric: Many newcomers appreciate Canada’s emphasis on community, multiculturalism, and a generally safer environment.
• Universal Healthcare: While it has its challenges, not having to worry about health insurance being tied to your job provides immense peace of mind for many.
• Work-Life Balance: The difference in Canadian work culture vs American is a welcome change for many. Depending on the industry, the environment in Canada can be more relaxed, with a stronger emphasis on using vacation time and respecting statutory holidays.

The Realistic Challenges:

• Higher Cost of Living, Lower Salaries: This is the most significant adjustment for many Americans. While some newcomers research the cheapest places to live in Canada to offset this, be prepared for housing, groceries, and especially cell phone plans in major cities to be more expensive than you’re used to. It’s important to ask hard questions about money before you move. Salaries, particularly in tech, may not be as high as in major US hubs. To compete effectively in the job market, you’ll also need to adapt your application materials, as the standard Canadian resume format often differs from what’s common in the US.
• The Healthcare Reality: While you won’t pay for most services at the point of use, the process can be slow. Learning how to find a family doctor accepting new patients can take months, and wait times for specialists can be long. You will also need to pay for prescription drugs, dental, and vision care, so getting a job with good benefits is key.
• Taxes are Different Here: You will be paying Canadian federal and provincial taxes. If you have ongoing US financial ties, you may have to file taxes in both countries. It’s highly recommended to consult with a cross-border tax specialist. This is why we always recommend consulting a cross-border tax specialist before your move, and familiarizing yourself with the core differences in Canadian taxes so you can budget accordingly. For complex cases, consider consulting a cross-border immigration lawyer.

USA vs. Canada: A Quick Comparison for Newcomers

Aspect	In the USA (What You’re Used To)	In Canada (What to Expect)
Healthcare	Tied to employment; private insurance system.	Universal, publicly funded system; not tied to your job.
Sales Tax	State + local sales tax added at checkout.	GST/HST is often higher and included in many prices.
Parental Leave	Up to 12 weeks unpaid (FMLA).	Up to 12-18 months of paid leave, shared between parents.
Statutory Vacation	No federally mandated paid vacation.	2-3 weeks of paid vacation is the legal minimum standard.
Credit History	Your US score does not transfer.	You will start from scratch building a new credit file.
Measurement	Imperial System (miles, pounds, Fahrenheit).	Metric System is official (kilometers, kilograms, Celsius), though some imperial is used colloquially.
Cell Phone Plans	Highly competitve market, often with unlimited data options.	Higher average costs, less competition, and data caps are common. 2-year contracts are standard.
Peer – to – Peer Payments	Dominated by third-party apps like Venmo, Zelle, and Cash App.	Interac e-Transfer, a direct bank – to – bank system, is the universal standard.

Bottom Line: The happiest newcomers are those who move to Canada for its specific qualities, not just to get away from something else. Research your target city’s job market and cost of living thoroughly to ensure your expectations are realistic.

Making Friends in Canada: Politeness vs. Friendship

One of the things you’ll hear about is ‘Canadian politeness.’ People will hold the door for you and say ‘sorry’ for everything, but it can be a challenge to break into established social circles. Building a community takes intentional effort. We recommend:

• Joining Hobby Groups: Whether it’s a hiking club, a sports league, or a book club, joining groups based on your interests is the #1 way to meet like-minded people.
• Volunteering: Giving your time to a local cause is a fantastic way to connect with your new community.
• Newcomer Services: Organizations like the YMCA and local settlement agencies often host social events and workshops for new immigrants.

To Sum Up: Your Action Plan

Moving to a new country is a marathon, not a sprint. Take it one step at a time. Remember, every newcomer in Canada once stood exactly where you are now. You’ve got this—and we’re here to help.

Here’s your action plan to get started:

• Step 1: Research the Pathways In-Depth. Read the official criteria for Express Entry and the PNP for the province you’re interested in. Decide which route is your best bet.
• Step 2: Start the Document Chase. Order official transcripts for your Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) and start studying for your language tests. These two items take the most time and you’ll need many papers for getting your kids into school too.
• Step 3: Calculate Your Estimated CRS Score. Use an online calculator to get a realistic idea of where you stand. This will tell you if you need to focus on boosting your score.

Continue Your Journey: More Guides to Help You Plan

Your move to Canada is a journey, not just a destination. Here are some of our best guides to help you with the next steps.

• What Americans Should Know Before Moving To Canada: A must-read to understand the big and small cultural differences.
• Big City vs. Small Town: Which is Right for You?: A guide to help you choose the right lifestyle.
• Myths About Living in Canada: Let’s separate fact from fiction.
• Best Cities for Immigrants in Canada: A data-backed look at where newcomers are thriving.
• Townhouse vs. Apartment vs. Condo: Understand your housing options before you start looking.
• Best Rental Websites in Canada: Your go-to list for finding your first home.
• How to Avoid Rental Scams in Canada: Protect yourself with these essential tips.
• First and Last Month’s Rent in Canada: What Newcomers Need to Know: A guide to a key part of the rental process.
• How to Settle in Canada: Your guide to the first few weeks after you land.

Ready to get organized? Download our free Moving to Canada Checklist to track every step of your journey, from application to arrival. It’s the perfect tool to make sure you don’t miss a single detail.