For Americans Considering Canada:
We live in unusual times. Whether driven by personal values or long-term planning, more Americans are looking north and asking: Could Canada be an option?
Here are some important things to know:
✅ 1. Canada Welcomes Immigrants—But It’s Not Open Borders
Canada’s immigration programs are open to people from all over the world. But what many don’t realize is that the majority of new permanent residents are selected through the economic class. That means Canada isn’t just asking if someone wants to live here—it’s assessing whether their skills align with the country’s long-term goals.
Applicants are evaluated on factors like:
-Age
-Education
-English or French language ability
-Work experience
Multiple factors are scored, you are assigned this number and applicants compete in a global pool. It’s a merit-based system, designed to support Canada’s labour market and people are selected for their ability to contribute to our economy
So yes, Canada is open—but getting here requires more than just interest. If you’re seriously considering a move, understanding how this system works is a good place to start.
✅ 2. Permanent Residency ≠ Citizenship
You don’t become a Canadian citizen right away. Most people get Permanent Residency (PR) first, which allows you to live, work, and study in Canada. After 3+ years as a PR (within a 5-year period), you can apply for citizenship. With citizenship comes the ability to apply for a Canadian passport.
Please remember that there are conditions to maintaining permanent residency. If you are not intending to permanently reside in Canada- it probably isn't the right time to make that step.
✅ 3. Free Healthcare Doesn't Kick In Instantly
Canada has public healthcare, but it’s provincial, and there’s usually a waiting period (often 3 months) for new PRs. You’ll need private insurance during that time. Dental and vision often require private plans. Don't forget to explore the regulations in the province or territory that you are considering moving to see the exact requirement to acquiring a health card. Your provincial health card is the ticket to gaining access to free health care.
✅ 4. About Job Offers- It's More Complicated
Having a Canadian job offer generally requires a LMIA—Labour Market Impact Assessment unless there is a specific exemption for the kind of work you do. Why? Because Canadian employers must prove they couldn’t find a Canadian first, which makes it tough unless you’re in a high-demand profession. There is also a free trade agreement between the U.S., Canada, and Mexico called the CUSMA (Canada–United States–Mexico Agreement), which replaced NAFTA in 2020. Under CUSMA, some Americans can get work permits faster and more easily (without needing an LMIA) — but there are strict limits. Your job must be one of the ones on the government's list, you should have a job offer and you should be ready to prove your qualifications. You may also consider becoming an intra-company transfer if you are currently employed somewhere that has a branch in Canada; however, you should be in a managerial or specialized knowledge role. Please also note that employment does not guarantee permanent residency, but time working here can help. This is not exhaustive and there is a lot to learn at https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/work-canada.html
✅ 6. Spousal & Common-Law Sponsorship
If you're married to or in a common-law relationship with a Canadian, you may be eligible for family sponsorship. This is a different pathway but unites many loved one and it is the bulk of what we do at Silver Peak Immigration. See Bringing Your Partner to Canada to learn more about this pathway. If you've been living together long enough to finish each other's sentences and argue over thermostat settings, you might already qualify as common-law. To understand further, see Are You in a Common- Law Relationship?
✅ 7. There Are Options to Work or Study First
Many people start with a:
-Study Permit (then transition to PR via Canadian Experience Class)
-Temporary Work Permit (then apply for PR from within)
Again, neither option guarantees permanent residency — but think of it as a trial run with Canada. You’re not getting a house key just yet, but you’re definitely invited to stay for dinner.
✅ 8. Is Dual Citizenship Allowed?
We get asked this a lot! Canada allows dual citizenship, and so does the U.S. You don’t have to give up your American citizenship to become Canadian.
✅ 9. Political and Social Culture Is Different
Much of Canada tends to lean more socially progressive in areas like:
-Healthcare access
-Gun control
-LGBTQ+ rights
-Social welfare
Many notice a more "collective" approach to our cultural tone. You may undergo some adjustments (especially if you are coming from a red state). Be prepared for more government involvement, a difference in the tax system, possible healthcare wait times and limited consumer choices than what you are accustomed to. Many Canadians value the trade-off that comes with a more collective approach to healthcare and social services.
✅ 10. Immigration Takes Planning
Even the fastest programs can take 6 months to over a year from application to landing. For PR through the most popular economic programs, you'll need:
-Financial proof that you can establish yourself (based on family size)
-Credential evaluations
-Language testing
-Police background checks
-Biometrics
There can be differences from program-to-program so contact us to find out what is the best fit for you.
Be prepared to bring a snug jacket, a warm drink and a spirit ready to embrace a new chapter.
We'll talk about the Canadian geese another time.
* Note: This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. For personalized support, please contact Silver Peak Immigration directly.
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