Canadians have several options to work in the U.S., depending on their job type and qualifications. Unlike many other foreign nationals, Canadians often have streamlined processes due to trade agreements and special provisions. Here are the main ways Canadians can work in the U.S.:
1. TN Visa (Trade NAFTA) – Easiest for Many Professionals
• Available under the USMCA (formerly NAFTA) for certain professional occupations (engineers, scientists, accountants, etc.).
• No employer sponsorship required, but a U.S. job offer is needed.
• Valid for up to three years and renewable indefinitely.
• Canadians can apply at a U.S. port of entry (border or airport) with:
o Proof of Canadian citizenship
o A job offer letter from a U.S. employer
o Proof of qualifications (degree, certifications, etc.)
• No Labor Condition Application (LCA) is required, unlike H-1B visas.
2. H-1B Visa – For Specialized Workers
• Available for professionals in specialty occupations (engineering, IT, finance, etc.).
• Requires employer sponsorship and an LCA from the U.S. Department of Labor.
• Subject to an annual cap (85,000 visas per year) unless working for a cap-exempt employer.
• Initially valid for three years, extendable up to six years.
• Canadians apply via U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and, if approved, can enter the U.S.
3. L-1 Visa – For Intra-Company Transfers
• For employees transferring from a Canadian branch to a U.S. office within the same company.
• Requires at least one year of employment with the company before applying.
• Valid for up to seven years (L-1A for managers) or five years (L-1B for specialized knowledge employees).
• Canadians can apply directly at the U.S. border for quicker processing.
4. E-2 Visa – For Investors and Entrepreneurs
• Available to Canadian investors who start or buy a U.S. business.
• Requires a substantial investment (typically $100,000+).
• Renewable indefinitely as long as the business is active.
5. O-1 Visa – For Individuals with Extraordinary Ability
• For highly skilled individuals in science, business, arts, or athletics.
• Requires a strong portfolio of awards, publications, or industry recognition.
• Valid for up to three years, renewable.
6. Green Card (Permanent Residency)
• Can be obtained through employment sponsorship, investment, or family sponsorship.
• EB-2 and EB-3 visas require PERM labor certification and employer sponsorship.
• Some Canadians qualify through the EB-1 category (extraordinary ability or multinational executives).
7. Work Under the B-1 Business Visitor Visa (Short-Term, No Direct Employment)
• For short business trips, consulting, or meetings.
• Canadians don’t need a visa for this but cannot be directly employed in the U.S.
Process for Canadians Entering the U.S. for Work
1. Secure a Job Offer – Most work visas require a job offer from a U.S. employer.
2. Get the Required Visa/Status –
o TN applicants apply at the border/airport with documents.
o H-1B, L-1, and E-2 applicants go through USCIS and a consulate (if needed).
3. Enter the U.S. and Start Working – Once the visa is approved, Canadians can enter and begin employment.
Special Benefits for Canadians
• No need for an H-1B visa stamp at a U.S. consulate.
• TN, L-1, and some work visas can be processed at the border for quick approval.
• Dual intent is allowed for L-1 and H-1B, meaning you can apply for a green card while working.