How can a Canadian become a U.S. citizen?

Asked by: Leland Hickle Sr.  |  Last update: October 19, 2025
Score: 4.8/5 (71 votes)

If you are a lawful permanent resident, you may be eligible to become a U.S. citizen after five years of becoming a lawful permanent resident, or three years if you are married to a U.S. citizen.

Can a Canadian citizen permanently live in the USA?

Marriage to a US citizen

Once a Canadian is married and has registered the marriage in the US, they can apply for permanent residency based on the immediate relative category of immigrant visas. Documentation is required to prove marriage to a US citizen.

Can Canadians get a US green card?

Canadians have a variety of options to gain U.S. lawful permanent resident status. These are the most popular ways to relocate to the United States legally: Marriage-Based Green Card. Family-Sponsored Green Card.

How much does it cost for a Canadian to become a U.S. citizen?

Application Fees for Citizenship Range from $380-$760

If you file a paper application (form N-400) your cost will be $760. If you file an online application the fee is reduced by $50 and you will pay $710.

How long does it take for a Canadian to get a green card?

The processing time for a green card is anywhere from a few months to many years depending on the type of green card you're applying for and where you're applying from.

How to Move from Canada to the U.S.

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How hard is it for a Canadian to get U.S. citizenship?

You must be at least eighteen (18) years old. You must have been resident in the US for at least 30 months in the last 60 months of your time as a permanent resident. However, if you gained residency through marriage, you must have been a resident for at least 18 months in the last 36 months.

Is it worth moving to the USA from Canada?

Diverse job opportunities and economic freedom

Canadian professionals moving to the US may find higher-paying jobs, more dynamic career growth, and access to industry-leading companies. Moreover, US employment often comes with certain tax benefits, and the entrepreneurial culture in the US is unmatched.

How long can you stay in the US if you are a Canadian citizen?

Canadian visitors are generally granted a stay in the U.S. for up to six months at the time of entry. Requests to extend or adjust a stay must be made prior to expiry to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service .

Can you have dual Canadian and U.S. citizenship?

There is no distinct process for U.S.-Canada dual citizenship. You obtain each separately without renouncing the other. Dual citizenship allows living, working, and studying in both countries without usual foreign national restrictions.

What are the four ways to become a U.S. citizen?

The four types of US Citizenship routes include:
  • Naturalization.
  • Citizenship by Marriage.
  • Citizenship through your parents.
  • Citizenship through the military.

What is the easiest way for a Canadian to move to the USA?

Permanent U.S. Immigration Options for Canadians

Canadians with immediate relatives who are U.S. citizens or Green Card holders may apply for family-based immigration. Immediate relative visas (IR) are available for spouses, children, or parents, while family preference visas (F) are for more distant relatives.

Can I buy a house in the US as a Canadian?

In fact, anyone may own property in the United States, regardless of their citizenship. It is important to note that if you buy property in the U.S., you still must abide by laws about the length of your stay in America. There are a number of laws governing long term holidays and property ownership in the USA.

Can a Canadian marry an American without a visa?

If a Canadian citizen wishes to marry a U.S. citizen inside the United States, then applying for a K-1 visa at a U.S. consulate is the appropriate first step. If a Canadian citizen wishes to marry a U.S. citizen inside the United States, then applying for a K-1 visa at a U.S. consulate is the appropriate first step.

Can a retired Canadian become a U.S. citizen?

Contrary to popular belief, one can hold "dual citizenship" in the U.S. and in Canada. Thousands of senior Canadians are citizens of the U.S.---and may not even know it!

What are the best states for Canadians to move to?

Canadians are increasingly moving to the U.S., with Florida, California, Texas, Arizona, and New York as top choices. Each of these states offers unique benefits, making them popular destinations for Canadians seeking a new chapter in the U.S.

Can I move to the USA from Canada without a job?

Without a job offer, the most predictable and easiest route to moving to the USA from Canada is visa the EB-5 Program. This allows for a foreign investor to make a refundable USD 800,000 investment in an approved EB-5 Project in the US.

How does a Canadian become a U.S. citizen?

You need to obtain a green card first either through family or employment (or investments). Then after 3-5 years, you can apply for citizenship.

Do I lose my Canadian citizenship if I become an American?

Conclusion. Becoming a U.S. citizen does not mean you have to give up your Canadian citizenship. You can keep your Canadian passport and remain a citizen of both countries. If you have concerns about specific situations, it's always a good idea to consult an immigration lawyer for personalized advice.

Who has the most citizenships?

The world record for the most citizenships is unofficially held by an individual with citizenship in eight countries. This includes a mix of countries from various regions, including Europe, North America and the Caribbean, reflecting a strategic approach to global mobility and access.

Can a Canadian citizen move to USA permanently?

Requirements for Immigrating to the US from Canada

You must have a valid reason for immigrating, such as work, study, or family ties. The individual must apply for and be approved for a visa. Depending on the reason for immigrating, the appropriate visa category must be chosen, such as a work visa or student visa.

Can Canadians drive to the US without a passport?

Travel by land or water

As per the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), Canadian citizens aged 16 years and older must present one of the following documents when entering the United States by land or water: a valid passport. a Trusted Traveler Program card.

What happens if a Canadian citizen overstay in the US?

Unlawful Presence and Bans on Re-Entry

Overstaying a visa results in “unlawful presence,” which can trigger re-entry bans: 180 days to 1 year of overstay: 3-year re-entry ban. Over 1 year of overstay: 10-year re-entry ban.

What is the easiest way for a Canadian to live in the US?

The EB-1 Visa is an employment-based (first preference) immigration visa that can be one of the fastest ways to obtain permanent residency in the US. This visa type is for individuals with exceptional academic or work achievements.

Is it cheaper to live in Canada or the US?

Overall, Canada is more affordable than the US, but the US has a higher median income. Comparing the cost of living in both countries is tricky because living costs vary dramatically within each city. It's important to consider the hidden costs and savings of public goods and services when comparing costs of living.

Can I keep my Canadian bank account if I leave Canada?

Can I keep my Canadian bank account after leaving Canada? Yes, you can keep your Canadian bank account open when moving abroad. However, it may depend on which bank you have an account with. Many major banks in Canada will allow you to keep your account as a foreign non-resident.