Moving from Canada to the United States, in order. Steps marked Legal are things the law requires; the rest keep the move smooth. Start with the legal must-dos. Going the other way? See USA → Canada.
Match your situation to a route: TN for many professionals with a job offer, L-1 for a company transfer, E-2 to run a business you invest in, H-1B, a family or employment green card, or F-1 to study.
Ask about your departure date, departure tax on investments, and what to do with your RRSP, TFSA and RESP before you become a U.S. person.
Compare cost of living, weather and lifestyle. Visit in the worst month if you can.
For TN, your letter must describe the role, duties, length of stay and pay. Gather proof of qualifications. Other routes need an approved petition first.
Check whether your car meets EPA and DOT standards or whether selling it is simpler.
Most people rent first. If buying, ask lenders about foreign-national or ITIN programs and how they treat Canadian credit.
Itemize what you're bringing with values. Ask your mover how they'll declare a separate shipment (CBP Form 3299).
Find out when your employer plan starts. Buy travel medical insurance for the trip and any gap.
Note your departure date. Tell the CRA, your banks and benefit payers that you're becoming a non-resident.
Ask your insurer for a claims-history letter and your province for a driver's abstract. Get pet vaccination and microchip records.
Keep passport, status documents and goods list with you, not in the moving truck. Don't bring cannabis.
Open a U.S. account and get a local number. Start building U.S. credit with a card you pay in full.
Once you're authorized to work, apply for a Social Security number.
Check your state's deadline. In California, register the car within 20 days.
Know when you become a U.S. tax resident and diarize your FBAR if you keep Canadian accounts over $10,000 combined.
Last checked: October 2026