Can a Canadian Citizen Work in the US?

By Michael Niren April 11, 2013 (Updated January 30, 2023) 3 min. read

Canadian citizens are allowed to work in the United States just like any other foreign national. However, before they can legally work in the United States or take a job, they are required to obtain a United States work visa. Almost everyone who wants to work in the United States needs to apply for a work visa, but Canadians do have several advantages that other foreign nationals don’t.

There is no one work visa for Canadian citizens – in fact there are several different types. For Canadians working in the US, there are specific US visas for Canadian citizens. In addition, there are visas that are specifically for Canadian citizens, such as the TN Visa.

However, the United States work visa you eventually choose does not have as much to do with your country of citizenship as it does with your personal situation and work experience.

Which United States Work Visa Should I Apply For?

Speaking with a licensed immigration lawyer is the best way to determine which type of United States work visa you should apply for. For example, Canadian citizens who work in a certain type of professional occupation and who have a valid job offer with a United States employer could apply for a TN visa, which is only for Canadian citizens or citizens of Mexico under the North American Free Trade Agreement.

US Work Visas for Canadians

TN Visas

If you are Canadian and you have a job offer in the US, you may be eligible for a TN Visa under the NAFTA agreement. This application process is the fastest way to get a US Work Visa. Learn more about how to get a TN visa. 

H-1B Visa

If you are a Canadian with a US job offer you may be eligible for an H-1B visa. There are many benefits of the H-1B visa for Canadians working in the US. Learn more about how to get an H-1B visa.

L-1 Visas

On the other hand, Canadian workers who are employed by Canadian companies but who are being transferred to United States offices could be best suited for an L-1 visa. Learn more about how to get a L-1 visa. 

E-2 Visas

E-2 visas are for owners and investors in businesses in the United States. The E-2 is a temporary U.S. work visa that may be granted for “substantial” investments in the U.S. An investment must meet several criteria in order to qualify for an E-2 visa. Learn more about how to get an E-2 visa.

Other US Work Visas

There are visas for people who work in different specialty occupations or who have different skills, such as an O-1 visa, while there are also visas available for people buying businesses in the United States or investing in the United States.

Each of these visas has their own specific requirements for applicants. It is vital that you understand which of these visas is the one for you, and which one suits your needs. In addition, it is important that you meet the requirements that the visa has. Get it right the first time! Call our immigration law firm for help.

Do You Want To Work in the US in 2023?

If so, Contact VisaPlace today. All our cases are handled by competent and experienced immigration professionals who are affiliated with VisaPlace. 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.

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Wasi Mesbahuddin

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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.

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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.
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