3 Options for Canadians to Move to the U.S.

Thinking of relocating from Canada to the United States for business or investment opportunities?

If you're looking to expand your portfolio, start a business, or establish permanent residency, there are several U.S. visa programs tailored to high-net-worth individuals. In this guide, we’ll walk you through three of the most popular and viable options for Canadians:

• EB-5 Investor Visa
• EB-2 NIW Visa (National Interest Waiver)
• E-2 Treaty Investor Visa

Each of these visas offers unique benefits, depending on your goals, investment appetite, and timeline. Let’s break down what you need to know.

1. EB-5 Investor Visa (Green Card)

The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program allows foreign investors to obtain U.S. permanent residency (a Green Card) by investing in a qualifying U.S. business that creates jobs for American workers. It’s one of the most direct paths to Green Card status for investors and their families.

Investment Required

• $800,000 USD if the investment is in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA), which includes rural regions or areas with high unemployment
• $1,050,000 USD if the investment is in a non-TEA area

The investment must create or preserve at least 10 full-time jobs for qualifying U.S. workers within two years of the investor's admission to the U.S.

Who Can Apply

• Individuals who can lawfully invest personal capital (must provide clear documentation of the source of funds)
• No education or business background requirements
• The investor, their spouse, and unmarried children under 21 are all eligible for Green Cards under the same application

Why It’s a Strong Option for Canadians

The EB-5 is ideal for Canadians who want a permanent foothold in the U.S. It’s especially valuable for families seeking access to top-tier U.S. schools, healthcare, and long-term business expansion. Compared to other visa routes, it offers a relatively passive way to secure U.S. residency while contributing to economic development.

2. EB-2 NIW Visa (National Interest Waiver – Green Card)

The EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) is a U.S. Green Card option for professionals with advanced degrees or individuals with exceptional ability whose work benefits the national interest of the United States. Unlike other EB-2 visas, the NIW waives the requirement for employer sponsorship.

Investment/Cost

• There's no fixed investment threshold, but applicants must demonstrate that their work (or business activity) substantially benefits the U.S. This could include innovation in tech, public health improvements, sustainability initiatives, or other work that aligns with national priorities. 

Who Can Apply

• Canadian citizens with an advanced degree or demonstrable exceptional ability in their field
• Entrepreneurs, researchers, and professionals with a clear plan to benefit the U.S. economy, environment, education, or healthcare systems
• No job offer or U.S. employer is required
• Spouse and children under 21 can also obtain Green Cards

Why It’s a Strong Option for Canadians

For Canadian founders, researchers, and mission-driven entrepreneurs, the EB-2 NIW provides a flexible and efficient route to U.S. permanent residency. It allows you to launch or expand your business on your own terms, without tying your immigration status to a specific employer or investor.

3. E-2 Treaty Investor Visa (Non-Immigrant Visa)

The E-2 Treaty Investor Visa allows Canadian citizens to live and work in the U.S. by investing in and directing the operations of a U.S.-based business. While this is a non-immigrant visa (meaning it doesn’t offer a Green Card), it can be renewed indefinitely as long as the business remains active and meets E-2 requirements.

Investment Required

• There's no fixed minimum investment. However, the capital must be substantial relative to the cost of the business and sufficient to ensure the investor's financial commitment to the enterprise. 

Who Can Apply

• Canadian citizens who invest in a U.S. business (either a startup or an existing enterprise)
• Applicants must own at least 50% of the business and actively develop and direct it
• Spouses and unmarried children under 21 are eligible as dependents. Spouses may work in the U.S. without needing a separate employment authorization document

Application Process in Canada

First-time applicants and those renewing an E-2 business registration must email their full application and supporting documents to the U.S. Consulate in Toronto.

For dependents and employees of currently registered E-2 companies, interviews can be scheduled directly at any U.S. Consulate in Canada (Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Ottawa, Calgary). After your interview, processing usually takes 7–10 business days.

Why It’s a Strong Option for Canadians

The E-2 visa offers a fast, flexible path for entrepreneurs who want to enter the U.S. market without waiting years for a Green Card. It’s ideal for Canadians who want to build a business south of the border while keeping the door open to long-term residency options in the future.

Why Canadians Are Choosing These U.S. Visas

Economic uncertainty, limited growth potential in Canada, and a desire for broader opportunities are driving more Canadians to explore U.S. immigration. These three visa options offer:

• Access to the U.S. market (the world’s largest economy)
• Enhanced education and healthcare opportunities
• More favorable business conditions, including tax incentives and access to capital
• Permanent or renewable residency for the whole family

Whether you're a tech founder in Toronto or an investor in Vancouver, there’s a U.S. immigration path that fits your goals.

Ready to Explore Your U.S. Immigration Options?

At High Net Worth Immigration, we specialize in helping Canadians navigate the EB-5, EB-2 NIW, and E-2 visa processes, covering everything from strategy to filing to landing.

If you’re serious about investing in your future across the border, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

👉 Book a free consultation today.