Even though the border controls were strict in the past, Canadian citizens still enjoy travel and work privileges in the US. But to work legally in the United States, you must receive a work visa from an employer in the US. An employer must apply for a work visa on your behalf once they decide to hire you.
There are four main work visa options Canadian citizens can obtain to work in the US. They include H-1B, TN, L-1, and O-1 visas. Furthermore, getting a job in the US from Canada is not as simple as applying, getting a job, and relocating.
Instead, ensure you have a valid work visa or work permit to enable you to work legally in the US. Job opportunities are abundant in fields such as sciences, medicine, teaching, and various other professions. This article will further broaden your knowledge about how to get a job in the US from Canada.
Can I Get a Job in The US From Canada?
Of course yes. With a proper job license, Canadian citizens can accept employment in the United States. There are several categories of US work visas available to Canadian nationals.
This type of job license would depend on the applicant’s educational qualification, the employment sector, and the kind of job. The United States increased the number of work visa permits to allow legal employment legally.
Read on to learn more about ways a Canadian citizen can get a job in the US.
1. H-1B visa
The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that enables skilled personnel, including Canadian citizens, to get a job in the US. It’s outlined for positions in specialty occupations that need a Bachelor’s degree or higher and include occupations like architecture, engineering, and accounting.
Eligibility for the H-1B Visa for Canadians
If you meet the specific requirements listed below, you can apply for a H-1B visa.
- A valid international passport.
- A secure job offer from a US employer in a specialized field.
- A bachelor’s degree or higher in a related field.
- Labor Condition Application certification.
- Form I-129.
If you meet the above requirements, you can get an H-1B visa to work in the US for three years, extendable. Your eligibility status must be maintained throughout your employment. Although, due to the high demand for the H-1B visa, applicants usually go through a lottery phase.
Nonetheless, obtaining this visa demands entering and being selected in the H-1B visa lottery. However, Canadian citizens with an advanced degree can apply for the US Master’s Cap Visa. The Master’s Cap category has a separate pool in the lottery with 20,000 reserved visas. Non-selected applicants in the Master’s Cap pool can enter the general pool, to have a better chance of getting selected.
2. TN visa
TN visa is a non-immigrant visa intended for NAFTA Professionals. It’s a popular choice for Canadian citizens planning to get a job in the US because of the minimal eligibility requirements. Also, Canadian citizens can enroll for this visa before they arrive in the US.
TN visas usually last three years and are easily renewable. However, to be able to come to the US, Canadian and Mexican citizens must have a prearranged job in the country.
Eligibility for TN visa (NAFTA Professionals)
Applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements to qualify for a TN visa.
- Being a citizen of either Canada or Mexico.
- Having qualifications in one of the accepted NAFTA professions.
- Being able to provide evidence that the job they want to do in the US requires a NAFTA professional.
- Having secured a part-time or full-time job before arriving in the United States.
- Having adequate educational qualifications.
Furthermore, Canadian citizens can easily apply for TN non-immigrant status when they first enter the country. Processing a TN visa with the USCIS can take a few months and is more expensive than applying at the port of entry. Also, applying at a port of entry gives a quick decision on TN status. If you are denied the visa, you know why immediately.
3. L-1 visa
The L1 visa allows companies to temporarily transfer a foreign employee to work in the US branch of the same company. This visa is difficult to secure, and there are complicated requirements when applying. L1 visa is reserved for workers classified for managerial skill, or who work in a specialized knowledge capacity.
There are two types of L-1 visas, the L-1A and the L-1B. The L-1A type is for foreign citizens coming to the US temporarily to perform services in a managerial or executive capacity. While the L-1B type is for foreigners coming to the US temporarily to perform specialized knowledge services.
Eligibility for L-1 visa for Canadians
- Must have worked outside the US full-time for one of the past three years.
- Have worked for a qualified organization outside the US in a managerial, executive, or specialized knowledge capacity.
- Have been transferred by your employer to an American-based branch, affiliate, or subsidiary of the employer.
4. O-1 Visa for Canadian Citizens
It is a non-immigrant visa which allows you to work in your field of expertise within the US for up to 3 years. The O-1 visa lets individuals with extraordinary skills in their fieldwork in the United States. There are ways applicants can prove their skills, including winning international prizes, grants, or awards.
There are two categories of O-1 visas, the O-1A and the O-1B. The O-1A visa is for individuals with exceptional skills and recognition in specific fields like science, technology, finance, education, or athletics. The O-1B visa is for individuals with top-notch abilities in the arts and motion pictures.
Eligibility for 0-1 visa for Canadians
In addition, to prove that you’ve outstanding expertise and achievements within your field of expertise. At least three of the following are required to be submitted.
- Awards or certificates confirming your recognition in the field.
- Authentication of membership in any association involved in bringing together experts within your field.
- Substantial evidence proving that your work is of great significance within your field.
- Proof of published materials by yourself in respected publications and journals relating to your field.
- Proof that you’ve had extensive experience working for or alongside reputable organizations within your field.
Other Visas That Allow Canadians to Get a Job in The US
Although the TN visa has the easiest application process that lets Canadians get a job in the United States. Several other options are available as well. These visas are mostly hard to obtain and have strict eligibility requirements.
Tips on How to Get a Job in The US From Canada
Understanding tips on how to get a job in the US can make your transition a smoother and simpler process.
1. Search for jobs online
You can typically begin your job search from Canada by searching online for jobs available in the United States.
2. Meet with a recruiting agency
Also, you can get in touch with recruiting agencies while conducting your job search. This option is most suitable to professionals that have over three years of experience in the field relevant to the role.
3. Build your resume
Your resume should include the relevant sections, such as your contact information, summary statement, work experience, education, skills, and any certifications related to the job.
4. Practice your interview skills
If employers ask you to interview, practice your skills by conducting a mock interview with friends, family, or colleagues.
Jobs in the US for Canadian Citizens
United States, the Land of Opportunities. This is especially right for employment applicants from a science frame-work. These include scientists, engineers, IT professionals, agriculturists, chemists, geologists, mathematicians, and meteorologists.
However, the opportunities are endless, provided you have the required credentials and skill set. Your educational qualification and professional experience would be of great relevance in the final selection procedure. Other job opportunities in the US for Canadians include Registered Nurse, physicians, dentist, lawyers, and architects.
Conclusion
Furthermore, securing a job in the US is easier for Canadian citizens than almost any other nationality, and several options to choose from. However, most options demands a valid job offer and evidence of credentials. Although, some require more considerable credentials than others.
TN is the easiest and most accessible option, while the H-1B and O-1 visas are for highly accomplished individuals. Also, the L-1 is for individuals in a specific circumstance. In this article, we have discussed extensively how to get a job in the US from Canada.