The election of Joe Biden and opportunities in Canada
American and Canadian businesses and individuals have a long history of close relationships. However, the Trump administration disrupted many opportunities by imposing tariffs and other forms of restrictions. The election of Joe Biden opens doors to several opportunities for American citizens and businesses in Canada. Since I am in immigration, I quickly review these options from an immigration point of view. Of course, feel free to contact us for a one-on-one consultation.
In this article
- Opportunities in Canada under CUSMA, USMCA, NAFTA 2.0
- Other labour movement opportunities under IMP
- Working in Canada without a permit
- The opportunity of studying in Canada
- Moving to Canada permanently
- Let us help you explore your opportunities in Canada.
Opportunities in Canada under CUSMA, USMCA, NAFTA 2.0
The comprehensive CUSMA agreement allows Americans to work in Canada. Of course, CUSMA is the new version of NAFTA that came into effect on July 1, 2020. Alternative names for CUSMA are USMCA and T-MEC. Regardless, as a US citizen, you may benefit from this agreement. However, you must fall under one of the following groups.
The intra-company or intra-corporation transferee program shapes a large labour-movement portion of CUSMA. Consequently, I have dedicated a full article to this subject.
When you move to Canada under CUSMA, you still need a work permit. However, there are two major benefits:
- You do not need an LMIA; and
- You may apply at a port of entry.
Other labour movement opportunities in Canada under IMP
IMP stands for the International Mobility Program. It is a program that exempts workers from an LMIA. Of course, LMIA is a letter you need to receive from Service Canada. The letter indicates hiring you will have no negative effect on the Canadian job market. However, the process of getting this letter is tedious, time-consuming and costly. Therefore, if IMP applies, you will save money and time. Of course, your chances of receiving a work permit in Canada becomes higher.
CUSMA work permits are part of the IMP. However, if it does not apply to you or is not a good option, you may consider other IMP options. Here are some examples:
- Job Creators Work Permit Canada
- Work Permit and Immigration Options for Artists
- Post Graduate Work Permit Canada
- Open Work Permit Canada
- Work in Canada without an LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment)
Working in Canada without a permit
On rare occasions, you have the opportunity of working in Canada without a permit. In such cases, as a US citizen, you may travel to Canada and start working. However, you need to show documents at the port of entry to verify why you are moving to Canada. Regardless, consider reading the following articles for more information.
- Work in Canada without a Permit, Legally!
- Business Visitors to Canada
- Working while Studying in Canada
The opportunity of studying in Canada
There is no doubt American universities are among the best in World. However, you may consider studying in Canada for the following reasons:
- Some Canadian universities are great.
- The cost of education in Canada is less than in the US (exceptions apply)
- Most education programs in Canada are in the English language.
- Canadian culture is very close to American culture, so that you won’t feel homesick.
- You will experience living in a different country.
- You may apply at a port of entry and receive your study permit in a few minutes.
Moving to Canada permanently.
As an American citizen, you have the opportunity of moving to Canada permanently. However, you must meet all the requirements. Consequently, consider reading one of the following articles:
- Canada Immigration 2021
- Sponsor Your Spouse or Common-Law Partner Inside Canada
- Sponsor Your Spouse Outside Canada
Of course, you may eventually become a Canadian citizen.
Let us help you explore your opportunities in Canada.
Regardless of your intentions (i.e. investment, working, studying or immigrating), we could help you. Fill out the following form, and we will contact you soon. Alternatively, you may book an appointment with me for official advice.
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If you wish to visit or move to Canada, please fill out our free assessment form. We will review it for free, but we will contact you only if we find an opportunity for you. Alternatively, you may book a consultation session. Consultation sessions are not free, but you will receive formal advice from a licenced practitioner.
Al Parsai, MA, DTM, RCIC
Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant
Ashton College Instructor – Immigration Consulting
Author – 88 Tips on Immigration to Canada
