Can U.S. Residents Move To Canada?

Yes, US residents can move to Canada, but immigration requirements and foreign buyer restrictions make the process more complex than many expect.

While Americans often assume moving north is simple, US residents must apply through an approved pathway to live in Canada. Options include temporary work permits, study permits, or permanent residency programs, such as Express Entry. Family sponsorship may be applicable if close relatives reside in Canada. Without one of these routes, Americans cannot simply relocate.

Buying real estate in Canada adds another layer of complexity. Since January 2023, the federal government has enforced the Prohibition on the Purchase of Residential Property by Non-Canadians, commonly referred to as the foreign buyers ban. This law, extended through 2027, prevents most non-residents from buying residential property in Toronto and other major cities. Limited exemptions exist for certain temporary workers and students; however, the ban primarily affects most Americans who have not secured legal residency.

Even when permitted, non-resident buyers face stricter financing rules, including down payments of 35% or more and higher scrutiny from lenders. Toronto’s market realities compound the challenge: detached homes in central neighbourhoods average over $1.5 million, while condos hover around $700,000, based on TRREB data. That means a non-resident American considering a $700,000 condo could need $245,000 in cash upfront, plus closing costs and potential taxes.

For U.S. residents considering a move to Toronto, it’s crucial to understand that immigration status, tax obligations, and housing regulations intersect. The Fox Marin Real Estate Team, with over 1,000 transactions and more than $580 million in sales, helps cross-border clients determine whether renting, waiting, or pursuing an exemption is the right first step before committing to a purchase.

Did you find this useful?