Canadian citizen looking for job in US

Question

How does a canadian citizen look for job in US? What are the considerations?

Johnhammock · Accepted Answer

+1 on this, and in addition should you be aiming for a TN-1 Visa because it is easier to secure or go straight for an H1-B? immigration is the ultimate goal here.

SilverPotatoEditor · Answer

I have been on this boat for the past year, so can hopefully provide some insight. Some of what I respond with may not be entirely accurate (based on how I understand the legal / government jargon) and others may have more information.

As far as looking for a job, the usual ways of getting a job (e.g. networking, job boards, etc.) still hold true. The biggest consideration is the visa and your intentions and the visa. The most direct visa routes I think are through H1B (route for green card, most employers are familiar with this) or TN (intend to return Canada eventually, less employer familiarity). The toughest part I've been finding is getting past application screening with a visa requirement. Apply anyway (at worse, they say don't sponsor - I've only had this happen once, or they ghost you). If you do get through, you may need to explain the TN visa at some point. There is also (to a lesser extent) consideration for the company / organization you are applying to. The H1B is capped every year and it ends up being a lottery system - non-profits are exempt from this cap.

Hopefully this is somewhat helpful and also looking forward to hearing others responses.

@Johnhammock - if immigration is your ultimate goal, H1B is the route to go even though it is harder. The TN isn't a visa with an intended green card (permanent residence) route and would be tied to the end date of your employment.

Canadian citizen looking for job in US

About

Tech

Members