Crossing the Border Between Canada and the US

The border between Canada and the US was closed to non-essential travel in March in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. That closure has been extended for another month. Foreign nationals who can prove that their travel is essential may still be able to come to Canada from the US for immigration purposes.

At this time, the Canadian government is continuing to process applications for temporary and permanent residence.

According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the following may be valid reasons for crossing the border:

• Foreign nationals coming to Canada to study
• Foreign nationals coming to Canada to work
• Those working in support of Canadian infrastructure
• Those working in economic services and supply chains
• Shopping for essential goods, such as medication

The latest version of the NAFTA trade agreement between Canada, the US and Mexico could make it easier for US citizens to come to Canada.

In order to take advantage of the benefits of this agreement, you must be a citizen of Canada, the US or Mexico. 

For the professional category, you must have a job offer from a Canadian employer for a position eligible under NAFTA (excluding intercompany transferees). A NAFTA Work Permit does not require an LMIA.

NAFTA visa types

• NAFTA Professionals
• NAFTA Intra-Company Transferees
• NAFTA Investors
• NAFTA Traders
• NAFTA Business Visitors

In spite of the continued uncertainty surrounding the coronavirus pandemic, we are glad to see that the Canadian government is continuing to invite foreign nationals to apply for permanent residency.Immigration plays an important role in Canada, and we hope to see these numbers continue to climb in the coming months. 

Interested in learning more about your Canadian immigration options? Get started today. Fill out our free online assessment and a member of our team will be in touch shortly.