Canada and the United States may be adjoining countries, but that doesn’t mean that making a move is as simple as packing up your things and crossing the border. Whether you’re looking to move for business or to be closer to family, we have some advice on how to make your transition a smooth one.
Understand the Difference Between Visas and Green Cards
There are two categories of visas that you might need to apply for when making your move, and which one is right for you depends on the circumstances of your relocation. Keep in mind that both kinds of visas provide you with access to benefits like healthcare and retirement.
A temporary visa is offered for individuals working in certain needed fields or students. There are a number of categories for the visas offered, and they’re only offered in limited quantities, so it’s best to understand the ins and outs of each before applying.
A permanent visa offers all the advantages of a temporary visa but without the time limit. It requires an interview process and sponsorship from a family member who’s a US citizen or an American employer.
A green card will be the preferred option for most, as it offers the benefits of a permanent visa along with more rights and the ability to apply for citizenship. But the process is more rigorous, requiring biometric screening, sponsorship, and an interview.
Make Sure Your Papers Are in Order
The paperwork necessary to apply for a green card can be complicated, so it’s best to make sure you have everything prepared ahead of time. You’ll need an ETA-750 and an I-140 submitted by your employer, so making sure both you and your boss are on the same page is critical. You’ll also need to personally fill out an I-145 for you and any family members arriving with you.
Understand the Pathway to Citizenship
If you’re planning on staying in the US permanently or semi-permanently, you’ll probably want to consider earning your citizenship. Green cards offer many of the advantages offered to US citizens, but there are often limitations like where you can travel on a visa. The path to citizenship requires being a green card holder for five years (or three if you’ve married a US citizen), and it requires an extensive ten-step process. If citizenship is something you’re interested in pursuing, it’s best to get a head start.
Consider Hiring a Moving Company
Once your personal paperwork is all in order, you’ll have to think about the logistics of getting all your belongings to your new home. The customs process can be complicated, so it behooves you to find a household and furniture moving company that specializes in international relocations and last minute moving. An experienced company can guide you through the steps like putting together an inventory.
Prepare For Some Light Culture Shock
While the US and Canada are pretty similar, sometimes it’s the little things that can throw you for a loop. It’s unlikely that the cultural differences between your old home and your new one are going to be traumatic, but you may have to get used to little wrinkles like the lack of public recycling and the broader ethnic diversity in many of America’s cities.