Top 5 Pathways for US Citizens Working in Canada [2025-2026 Guide]

TL;DR: US citizens can work in Canada through programs like CUSMA, Express Entry, or Provincial Nominee Programs. The easiest route is often the CUSMA work permit for professionals—no LMIA required. Use Evola AI's Success Predictor to assess your best option in 90 seconds.

---

Can a US citizen work in Canada without a visa?

Yes, but you’ll need a work permit. Unlike tourists, US citizens require authorization to work in Canada, even for remote jobs if the employer is Canadian. Key exceptions include:

• CUSMA (ex-NAFTA) Professionals: Engineers, accountants, and 60+ other roles qualify for simplified permits.
• Intra-Company Transfers: For employees transferring to a Canadian branch.
• LMIA-Exempt Roles: Certain research, emergency repairs, or charitable work.

According to IRCC’s work permit page, processing times vary from 2 weeks (CUSMA) to 6 months (LMIA-based).

---

What’s the fastest way for a US citizen to work in Canada?

CUSMA work permits are typically the quickest. You can apply at the border with:

1. A job offer in a qualifying profession (see CUSMA list)
2. Proof of US citizenship (passport/birth certificate)
3. $155 CAD processing fee

Evola AI’s CRS Calculator helps compare this against Express Entry if you’re aiming for permanent residency.

---

Can US citizens get permanent residency while working in Canada?

Yes, through three main pathways:

1. Express Entry: Earn points for Canadian work experience. Current CRS cutoffs range from 500–530.
2. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): Alberta and BC often nominate US workers in tech/healthcare.
3. Canadian Experience Class: After 1+ year of skilled work in Canada.

Pro Tip: Working in Canada first boosts your CRS score by up to 80 points. According to Ontario’s immigration site, some PNPs prioritize candidates already working locally.

---

Do US citizens pay US taxes while working in Canada?

Generally yes, but with key offsets:

• The Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) lets you exclude ~$120,000/year (2025 amount).
• Canada-US Tax Treaty prevents double taxation on:
  • Retirement accounts (401k/RRSP)
  • Social Security benefits
  • Capital gains

The CRA’s guide for US expats clarifies filing requirements.

---

How does healthcare work for US citizens in Canada?

Provincial healthcare covers you after a waiting period (usually 3 months). Until then:

✔️ Buy private insurance (≈$150/month)
✔️ Keep US insurance if it covers international care
✔️ Alberta and BC may waive waits for work permit holders

BC’s MSP program confirms eligibility for temporary workers.

---

Next Steps

As a US citizen, your Canadian work options balance speed (CUSMA permits) and long-term stability (Express Entry/PNPs). For a personalized plan:

1. Check your CUSMA eligibility with Evola’s CLB Converter if language tests are needed
2. Compare PNP requirements using real-time policy alerts
3. Start your application with 24/7 AI guidance

Explore your full immigration potential →