Can Americans Live in Canada? The 2025 Guide to Moving North Legally and Comfortably

Thinking about trading in the chaos of U.S. politics for something a bit more...stable? You’re far from the only one. In fact, nearly a million Americans are already living in Canada, and that number has been steadily growing for years.

Why? Some are chasing more affordable healthcare. Others are after stronger social support or simply a different vibe. And thanks to a shared language, integrated economies, and relatively straightforward visa pathways, moving from the U.S. to Canada is one of the more realistic international relocation options available today.

Whether you’re a skilled professional, entrepreneur, recent graduate, or parent looking for better education for your kids, Canada has a program for you. But like with any move, success comes down to understanding the details.

In this guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know. From immigration options to healthcare, job markets to lifestyle differences, this blog isn’t fluff. It’s your full relocation playbook.

How Can Americans Immigrate to Canada? Options in 2025

Relocating to Canada as a U.S. citizen is entirely possible, but the right visa or residency program depends on your background, goals, and timeline.

Here are the most common, effective, and practical options in 2025, including newer routes like the Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) for business owners and executives.

Express Entry

The Express Entry system is the most efficient and competitive pathway for skilled professionals. It’s not a visa; it’s a scoring system that manages permanent residency applications through three federal programs:

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

You’re scored using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) based on:

• Age
• Education
• Work experience
• Language skills (English/French)
• Canadian ties (study/work/job offer)

Pro tip for Americans: Most U.S. citizens score well on education and language but often lack Canadian work experience. Studying in Canada, getting a job offer, or being nominated by a province can dramatically improve your score.

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

Every Canadian province (except Quebec) runs its own PNP, allowing them to nominate individuals with specific skills needed locally.

If you’re nominated, you receive 600 additional CRS points, which virtually guarantees an invitation to apply for permanent residency.

Examples:

• British Columbia: Prioritizes tech, healthcare, and construction professionals

• Ontario: Has high-demand streams for trades, finance, and French-speaking talent

• Alberta: Offers pathways for rural healthcare workers and agricultural roles

• Atlantic Provinces: Offer fast tracks under the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)

Family Sponsorship

Canada’s family reunification program allows citizens and permanent residents to sponsor:

• Spouses and common-law partners (no need to be married if you’ve cohabited for 12+ months)

• Dependent children

• Parents and grandparents (via a lottery-style application window)

Key benefits:

• No point-based assessment required
• Open work permits for spouses while PR is processing
• Access to public healthcare upon arrival

Note: Sponsors must meet income requirements and agree to support the applicant financially for a set period (3–20 years depending on relationship type).

Study in Canada

If you’re a student or recent graduate, studying in Canada can be a smart immigration strategy. Benefits include:

• Study Permit eligibility for programs over 6 months

• Ability to work part-time during school and full-time during breaks

• Eligibility for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) for up to 3 years

• Extra CRS points for Canadian education and work experience

Top-tier institutions like University of Toronto, McGill, UBC, and Waterloo consistently rank among the world’s best, and often cost less than U.S. private colleges.

Work Permits for Americans

You don’t need PR status to start working in Canada. A range of temporary work permits exist:

• Employer-Specific Work Permits: Requires an LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) proving no Canadian is available for the role

• Open Work Permits: No job offers needed, often available to spouses of international students or skilled workers

• CUSMA (formerly NAFTA): Allows U.S. professionals in specific occupations (e.g., engineers, IT specialists, accountants) to work in Canada with minimal paperwork

These permits are typically valid for 1–3 years and can often be extended. Many also lead to PR through Express Entry or PNPs.

Start-up Visa Program

Canada Start-up visa program is one of the most attractive and underrated options for U.S. entrepreneurs especially in tech, fintech, AI, biotech, or any scalable digital business.

To qualify, you must:

• Have an innovative, scalable business idea

• Get a letter of support from a designated venture capital firm, angel investor, or incubator

• Own at least 10% of the business, with no group holding more than 50%

• Meet language requirements (CLB 5 in English or French)

• Prove you can financially support yourself during your first year (about CAD 14,000 for one person)

Unlike most immigration routes, the Start-up Visa doesn’t require:

• Age limits
• Minimum net worth
• Prior business success

You can apply for a temporary work permit while your PR is being processed — which can take 12–18 months.

Intra-Company Transfer (ICT)

If you own a U.S.-based company (or work for one), and you want to expand to Canada, ICT is one of the smoothest ways in.

Eligibility criteria:

• You’ve worked with the U.S. company for at least 1 year in the last 3 years

• Your role must be executive, senior managerial, or specialized knowledge

• The company must open a Canadian branch, affiliate, or subsidiary

• You must continue working for the same organization in Canada

Advantages:

• No LMIA required

• Work permit issued for 1–2 years, extendable up to 7 years

• Spouse and kids can accompany and apply for open permits or study permits

• Often leads to permanent residency via Express Entry (CEC) or PNP

ICT is especially popular for consultants, tech founders, digital agency owners, and mid-size firms expanding internationally.

Canadian Immigration Pathways for U.S. Citizens

What Do You Need to Move from the U.S. to Canada?

Your Education Must Be Recognized in Canada

You’ll need an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) to prove that your U.S. degree is equivalent to a Canadian one. Accepted agencies include:

• WES (World Education Services)
• ICES
• IQAS

Some professions, like law, medicine, or engineering, may require additional provincial licensing.

You Still Need to Take a Language Test

Even if you’re a native English speaker, you’re required to submit a certified language test score. Common options:

• IELTS (General Training) – accepted for English
• TEF Canada – accepted for French

Your score can significantly impact your Express Entry profile. Higher scores = more points.

You Must Show You Can Support Yourself

Canada requires proof of funds when you apply through most economic immigration programs. As of 2025:

• 1 adult = CAD 14,000+
• Each additional family member = +CAD 3,800–4,500

Funds must be easily accessible (checking/savings/investments). Property or credit lines don’t count.

You’ll Need Police Background Checks

You must provide police certificates from:

• The U.S. (FBI background check)
• Any other country you’ve lived in for more than 6 months since age 18

Minor offenses may be overlooked, but certain charges can delay or deny your application. There are legal options for overcoming inadmissibility.

A Medical Exam Is Mandatory

All permanent residency applicants must undergo a medical exam by an IRCC-approved physician. The exam screens for:

• Infectious diseases (e.g., TB)
• Conditions that could place a high burden on the public system

You’ll receive instructions after submitting your application—or earlier in some cases.

Is Living in Canada Cheaper Than the U.S.? A 2025 Cost Breakdown

Let’s compare the real-life cost of living across major cities:

Note: USD is stronger than CAD. 1 USD ≈ 1.35 CAD in April 2025.

Housing in Canada

Toronto and Vancouver are expensive by Canadian standards, but still cheaper than U.S. hotspots like New York or San Francisco. Cities like Calgary, Ottawa, and Halifax offer excellent quality of life at lower cost.

Publicly Funded Healthcare System

In Canada, you don’t pay monthly premiums for basic health coverage. The system is funded by taxes. Expats on temporary permits may need private insurance during waiting periods, but most residents have access to:

• Doctor visits
• Hospital services
• Lab tests

Prescription drugs, dental, and vision usually require separate plans.

In the U.S., health insurance costs average $500–700 per person/month, and that’s before co-pays or deductibles.

Education: Lower Tuition, Free Public Schooling

• Public K–12 education is free across Canada for residents.
• University tuition for international students is CAD 15,000–30,000/year.
  Compare that to USD 25,000–60,000/year in the States, and it’s a huge saving.

Also, student visas often come with work rights and pathways to permanent residency.

Taxes: Higher, But with More in Return

Canada’s income tax rates are generally higher than in the U.S., but keep in mind what you get:

• Universal healthcare
• Paid maternity/paternity leave
• Subsidized university and childcare

U.S. citizens still need to file U.S. taxes, but thanks to the Canada–U.S. tax treaty, you’re unlikely to be double-taxed if you file properly and claim credits like the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE).

Why Move from the USA to Canada?

Quality of Life

Canada regularly ranks among the top countries for overall quality of life. In the 2024 U.S. News & World Report, Canada came in 4th globally praised for safety, access to education, and political stability. American cities like New York and Los Angeles may offer big opportunities, but Canada offers a softer landing, lower crime rates, shorter commutes, and better work-life balance.

Healthcare System

Here’s a big one. Canada’s public healthcare system covers essential medical services for permanent residents and citizens, without monthly premiums or absurd out-of-pocket costs.

According to the Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI), Canada spent over $372 billion on healthcare in 2024, making up 12.4% of its GDP.

For Americans used to navigating complex insurance networks and surprise bills, this alone is often reason enough to move.

Social Benefits

Canada's social safety net is among the most comprehensive in the developed world. From subsidized childcare to income-tested family benefits, it’s designed to reduce inequality.

In 2024, the Canada Child Benefit provided up to $7,787 per child under age six. Programs like Employment Insurance and public pensions further add to the financial cushion available to residents.

Cultural Similarities and Differences

Don’t expect total culture shock. Both countries drive on the same side of the road, speak English, and share a lot of pop culture. But Canada leans more communal and less individualistic.

There’s a stronger emphasis on public services, environmental protection, and multiculturalism. You’ll notice it in everything from public transportation to the tone of political debates.

Where Should Americans Live in Canada? Best Cities in 2025

Choosing the right Canadian city can make or break your relocation experience. Here’s a breakdown of top picks for U.S. citizens based on lifestyle, job opportunities, affordability, and vibe.

Toronto

Canada’s biggest city is home to the country’s top banks, law firms, and multinational HQs. Toronto is busy, multicultural, and offers direct flights to almost anywhere.

Pros:

• Strong job market
• Excellent public transit
• Massive immigrant communities (you won’t feel alone)

Cons:

• One of the most expensive housing markets in Canada
• Dense urban lifestyle, that's maybe not for everyone

Vancouver

Want to hike in the morning and pitch a startup in the afternoon? Vancouver nails the balance. It’s a favorite among tech workers, creatives, and outdoor lovers.

Pros:

• Close to Seattle and Silicon Valley
• Warmest winters in Canada
• High demand for IT, film, and digital jobs

Cons:

• Cost of living rivals San Francisco
• Limited housing supply

Montreal

Montreal is where North America gets its French twist. It’s beautiful, cultured, and surprisingly affordable.

Pros:

• Cost of living is lower than Toronto/Vancouver
• Rich arts, music, and food scene
• Great for students and young professionals

Cons:

• You’ll need basic French for most jobs
• Harsh winters

Ottawa

Canada’s capital is clean, safe, and bilingual. It’s ideal for families, diplomats, and anyone in public administration or tech.

Pros:

• High average salaries
• Bilingual schools and services
• Easy access to Montreal and Toronto

Cons:

• Less exciting nightlife compared to other cities

Calgary

Often overlooked, Calgary is booming. Its economy is diversifying beyond oil, with major investment in tech and infrastructure.

Pros:

• No provincial sales tax
• Affordable housing compared to other metros
• Proximity to Banff and the Rockies

Cons:

• Colder winters
• Job market still somewhat reliant on energy

How Does Healthcare Work for Americans in Canada?

Canada’s healthcare system is publicly funded and managed at the provincial level. But access depends on your residency status and province of residence.

Provincial Health Insurance

Once you become a permanent resident (or sometimes even on a work or study permit), you’ll be eligible for provincial health insurance. This usually covers:

• Doctor visits
• Emergency services
• Hospital stays
• Diagnostic tests

But there’s often a waiting period of up to 3 months after you arrive before coverage kicks in. This varies by province.

Private Insurance for the First Few Months

Many newcomers use private insurance to cover the initial waiting period. Plans typically include:

• Prescription drugs
• Dental and vision
• Out-of-hospital care
• Emergency travel insurance

Costs vary, but you can expect to pay around CAD 100–300/month for temporary coverage.

Long-Term Coverage and Costs

Once you’re in the public system, basic care is free at the point of use. But you may still want supplemental private insurance to cover:

• Dental care
• Physiotherapy
• Prescription medications
• Mental health services

Employers often offer group plans, or you can buy your own.

Can Americans Work in Canada?

Yes, but you’ll need proper documentation. Even though the U.S. and Canada are neighbors, you can’t just move up and start working without a legal permit or residency.

Getting a Social Insurance Number (SIN)

Your first step is to apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN) , Canada’s equivalent to a Social Security Number.

You need a SIN to:

• Work legally
• Get paid
• File taxes
• Access public services

You can apply online or in person with your work permit, study permit, or PR confirmation.

Professional Licensing

If you’re in a regulated profession, like law, medicine, accounting, or engineering, you’ll need to get licensed in the province where you plan to work. Each province has its own governing body.

For example:

• Doctors need to pass Canadian board exams and register with provincial colleges
• Teachers need provincial certification
• Engineers must register with associations like PEO (Ontario) or APEGA (Alberta)

Unregulated fields (like marketing or sales) don’t require certification.

Labor Laws and Employee Rights in Canada

Canadian workers have strong legal protections. Key differences from the U.S. include:

• Guaranteed vacation: Minimum 2 weeks/year (often more)

• Paid parental leave: Up to 18 months (varies by province and employer)

• Universal healthcare: Often covered from day one through employer plans or provincial insurance

• Stronger unions in many industries

Canada also has higher minimum wages, typically ranging from CAD 15 to 17/hour depending on the province.

What Legal Steps Do Americans Need to Take After Moving to Canada?

Moving countries is more than just getting a visa. Once you land, you’ll need to take care of several legal and logistical steps to integrate fully into Canadian life.

Permanent Resident (PR) Card

Once your PR application is approved and you arrive in Canada, you’ll get a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR), but that’s not your final document.

You’ll then receive your Permanent Resident (PR) card, which:

• Acts as your main ID for immigration purposes
• Is needed to re-enter Canada after international travel
• Must be renewed every 5 years

You don’t have to carry it everywhere, but you’ll need it for most official processes.

Driver's License Exchange

If you’re moving from the U.S., you can often swap your American license for a Canadian one without having to redo the written or road test.

This depends on your province:

• Ontario, BC, and Alberta have license exchange agreements with most U.S. states
• Some provinces may require vision tests or documentation from your DMV

You’

ll typically need:

• Your U.S. license (not expired)
• Proof of residency (utility bill, lease)
• Fee of CAD 80–130

Banking and Finances

Open a local bank account to receive your salary, pay rent, and avoid currency exchange fees.

You’ll need:

• SIN
• Immigration documents (work permit, PR card)
• Canadian address (can be temporary)

Major banks like RBC, TD, Scotiabank, and BMO offer "newcomer packages" with no monthly fees and credit card access (even with no Canadian credit history).

Taxes: Yes, You Still Need to File with the IRS

U.S. citizens are required to file taxes no matter where they live. You’ll need to:

• File Canadian taxes on Canadian income
• File U.S. taxes annually (but can claim exemptions to avoid double-taxation)

Key tools:

• Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) – lets you exclude up to ~$120,000 of foreign income from U.S. taxes

• Foreign Tax Credit – offsets what you’ve already paid to Canada

• Form 8938 & FBAR – for foreign bank account reporting

A cross-border accountant is worth the investment here.

How to Relocate to Canada from the U.S. (Step-by-Step)

Here’s a simplified timeline to keep your move organized:

What Are the Pros and Cons of Living in Canada as an American?

Here’s a straightforward breakdown, no sugarcoating, no doom-mongering.

Benefits for Americans

• Healthcare: Universal coverage with no surprise bills

• Safety: Lower crime rates across most cities

• Work-Life Balance: More paid time off, less hustle culture

• Social Services: Support for families, students, and low-income residents

• Path to Citizenship: You can apply after just 3 years of residency

Potential Challenges

• Higher Taxes: Especially for high-income earners

• Weather: Cold, long winters in most regions

• Bureaucracy: Slower processing times than in the U.S.

• Language Barriers: French is essential in parts of Quebec

• Cost of Living: Major cities are pricey, especially housing

What It Takes to Make Canada Work for You

Relocating from the U.S. to Canada is no longer just a retirement fantasy or a political daydream. In 2025, it’s a viable path for skilled professionals, founders, remote workers, and families who are looking for more predictability in healthcare, governance, education, and overall quality of life.

Canada isn’t passively open to newcomers, but it’s strategically inviting people who bring skills, ideas, and businesses that align with its long-term economic goals. That’s why options like the Start-up Visa and Intra-Company Transfer aren’t just immigration pathways; they’re policy tools designed to grow innovation and international partnerships.

If you’re someone building a business or expanding one or simply want to build a more stable future for your family in a well-structured environment, the legal and logistical route is there, it just needs to be executed correctly.

Savory & Partners supports that process. We work with vetted legal teams, business immigration experts, and relocation professionals to assist U.S. citizens with:

• Canadian Start-up Visa applications for entrepreneurs building scalable ventures
• Intra-Company Transfer permits for expanding businesses and executives
• Full migration and integration planning, covering banking, tax, legal, and lifestyle needs

Moving to Canada isn’t as simple as crossing a border. But with the right support, it can be done smoothly, legally, and with a clear plan for the future.

FAQs on Moving from the U.S. to Canada

Can Americans just move to Canada without a visa?

No. You need legal authorization, such as a work permit, study permit, or permanent residency, to live and work in Canada.

Can I keep my U.S. citizenship if I become a Canadian citizen?

Yes. Both Canada and the U.S. allow dual citizenship.

How long can I stay in Canada as a visitor?

As a U.S. citizen, you can stay up to 6 months without a visa. But you can’t work or study without proper permits.

Do I pay U.S. taxes if I live in Canada?

Yes, if you're a U.S. citizen, you must file annually with the IRS. However, tax treaties usually prevent double taxation.

Can I move to Canada if I have a job offer?

Yes. A job offer is a strong advantage and may qualify you for a work permit or improve your Express Entry score.

Is healthcare free for American expats?

Once you're a permanent resident or on certain work/study permits, yes, public healthcare becomes available. But private insurance is often needed during your first few months.

How long does it take to get Canadian permanent residency?

It varies. Express Entry takes around 6–12 months from application to approval, depending on your score and paperwork.

References

Canadian Institute for Health Information. (2024). National health expenditure trends, 1975 to 2024. https://www.cihi.ca/en/national-health-expenditure-trends-2024

Government of Canada. (2025). Express Entry: Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) criteria. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada. https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/express-entry.html

U.S. News & World Report. (2024). Best Countries 2024: Canada ranked 4th globally. https://www.usnews.com/news/best-countries/canada

Government of Canada. (2024). Canada Child Benefit: Benefit year 2024–25. https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/child-family-benefits/canada-child-benefit-overview.html

Statistics Canada. (2024). Americans living in Canada: Demographic trends and immigration patterns. https://www.statcan.gc.ca/en/dai/smr08/2024/smr08_266