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Move-to checklist · North America

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Moving to Canada from the USA

Checklist for Americans moving to Canada — Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs, work permits, intra-company transfers, SIN, banking, and the first month.

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01

Visa & legal right to stay

  • Pick a route: Express Entry (FSW/CEC/FST), PNP, intra-company transfer, study permit, or family sponsorship

    Must

    Express Entry CRS cutoffs are competitive — usually 470+ in general draws.

  • Get an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) from WES if going Express Entry

    Must

  • Take an approved English test (IELTS General or CELPIP)

    Must

  • Apply through your IRCC online account

02

Paperwork to gather before you fly

  • FBI background check + apostilled birth/marriage certs

  • Proof of funds (~CAD $14,690 for a single applicant, more for family) for FSW

    Must

  • Up-to-date CV with NOC code matching your work history

  • Vet docs for pets — rabies certificate sufficient from the US

03

Money & banking

  • Apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN) on arrival — required to work or open most accounts

    Must

  • Open a newcomer banking package (RBC, TD, Scotiabank, BMO all offer one)

    Includes a free chequing account and a no-credit-history credit card.

  • Start building Canadian credit immediately — your US history doesn't transfer (except via Nova Credit at a few banks)

  • File a US tax return + FBAR every year — and a Canadian return after you're resident

04

Housing

  • Use Realtor.ca, Rentals.ca, or Kijiji for long-term housing

  • Expect first + last month rent + sometimes a key deposit

    Toronto and Vancouver landlords often ask for 12 months of pay stubs or a guarantor for newcomers.

  • Confirm whether utilities are included — heating costs matter outside the coast

05

Healthcare

  • Apply for provincial health (OHIP, MSP, RAMQ, AHCIP) immediately

    Must

    BC, Quebec, Ontario, and New Brunswick have 3-month waiting periods — buy private bridge insurance.

  • Pick a family doctor — many provinces have shortages, register on Health Care Connect (ON) or equivalents

  • Buy supplemental private insurance for dental, vision, and Rx

06

First 30 days on the ground

  • Land at a Canadian port of entry and have your COPR processed (PRs) or work permit issued

    Must

  • Apply for the SIN at Service Canada

    Must

  • Order your PR card if you're a permanent resident

  • Get a Canadian SIM (Rogers, Bell, Telus, or Public Mobile)

  • Exchange your US driver's license at the provincial DMV — most US states qualify for direct swap

  • Apply for the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) if moving with kids

FAQ

Is Express Entry still the best route for Americans?

For skilled professionals under 35 with a STEM degree, usually yes. PNP streams targeting tech (BC, Ontario) are often faster if your CRS is borderline.

Do I get healthcare on day one?

Only in Alberta, Manitoba, and a few Atlantic provinces. BC, Ontario, and Quebec impose a 3-month wait — bridge with private insurance.

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NextLatitude is for organization and guidance only. Visa rules, tax thresholds, and procedures change — always confirm with the relevant consulate or a licensed professional before acting. Last reviewed 2026-06-01.