How to Work in Canada as a US Citizen

By Michael Niren November 8, 2012 (Updated March 13, 2024) 2 min. read
American working in Canada

Oftentimes, those who are citizens of the United States will be sparked with the interest in making a big move, and believe it or not, Canada is a great choice for many! Individuals may want to leave the US for various reasons whether temporary or permanent and obtaining a Canadian work permit is usually the first step. Many Americans want to know if they can get a Canadian work permit and were here to tell you how!

Working in Canada as an American

If you are a US citizen, you may be eligible to apply for a Canadian work permit or apply to work in Canada under the Federal Skilled Worker Program, which could eventually lead to Canada PR.

Getting a Canadian Work Permit as an American

Thanks to the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), it is much easier for a United States citizen to obtain a work permit in Canada. However, there are still requirements that must be met. These requirements include:

You may also be required to obtain a positive LMO also called a Labour Market Opinion, which your employer will obtain on your behalf while giving you a copy for your work permit application. This assures the Canadian government that no Canadians are available to fill the job you’ve been offered.

Americans Applying Under the Skilled Worker Program

If you would like to work in Canada but would like to use your work experience as a pathway to permanent residency, you could also consider the Federal Skilled Worker Program. To be eligible for FSWP, you will need to have at least one year of full-time work experience in a management occupation, a professional and related occupation, a technical occupation, skilled trade, or a paraprofessional occupation. You will also need to determine your eligibility based on the program’s point system, which measures specific criteria such as your language proficiency, work experience, age, plus more.

Are You Interested in Applying for a Canadian Work Permit?

If so, Contact VisaPlace today. All our cases are handled by competent and experienced immigration professionals who are part of the VisaPlace team. These professionals consist of lawyers, licensed paralegals, and consultants who work for VisaPlace Legal an award-winning immigration firm that adheres to the highest standards of client service.

Ready for the next step? Book your 1-on-1 consultation now or call us at 1-877-296-0874.

Have a Question related to your Immigration Needs?

Click here to fill out the FREE Immigration Assessment form below and get a response within 24 hours to see if you’re eligible.

The assessment form should take approximately 5-7 minutes to complete. We will get back to you within one business day to let you know if we are able to help.

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Wasi Mesbahuddin

Second time working with Visaplace, and was successful again with a visa application for parents (2 out of 2). Worked with Felicita and Mansi, strong guidance, very detailed approach to putting together a very thorough and comprehensive application. Good feedback and support throughout the full process. Highly recommend Visaplace!

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Maria Accounting

We are incredibly grateful to Attorney Felicita and her outstanding team for their exceptional legal support. Thanks to their expertise, professionalism, and efficiency, we were able to secure two work visas and a visitor visa for our family members — all within a remarkably short period of time.

Attorney Felicita’s leadership, attention to detail, and deep knowledge of immigration law made the entire process smooth and stress-free. The team was responsive, thorough, and truly committed to achieving the best outcome for us.

We highly recommend Attorney Felicita and her team to anyone in need of skilled and reliable legal representation. Their dedication and results speak for themselves.

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Manale

Felicita and her team are amazing. They’re so professional. It’s not the first time that i refer to them to submit my applications and never fail to achieve satisfying results

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Ljiljana Pavkov

I have nothing but praise! The entire team was extremely professional, knowledgeable, and kind, especially Mansi Sanghiv. She patiently explained everything I needed to know and resolved all of my concerns. I felt safe and well taken care of throughout the entire process. I am extremely satisfied with the service and experience, and I wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone looking for quality, dedication, and trust.

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Lisanne Cholette

Mansi has been helping me navigate through a new chapter in my life. It has been a huge comfort to be able to lean on her knowledge and expertise and I would highly recommend her to anyone!

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BERLITA COLLADO

I am so very thankful to the VISAPACE team for making it all come true and possible from my Open Work Permit to my Permanent Residence, you make it all happen .Thank you very much from the bottom of my heart , Thank you for being part of my achievements. Now I am now a Permanent Residence through the effort, power and knowledge of VISAPLACE LEGAL TEAM.
Sending you my best appreciation and thank you.

Berlie Collado

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Shahrzad Sh

“I truly want to thank Mansi. Her patience and thoughtful advices made a big difference for me. Her recommendations were not only helpful but also gave me clearer insight. Words can’t fully express how grateful I am for her support.”