What does CUSFTA mean?
The Canada–United States Free Trade Agreement (CUSFTA) was a landmark in relations between Canada and the U.S. and created one of the world’s largest free trade zones. The agreement phased out tariffs, import quotas, and other trade restrictions between the two countries in stages over a ten-year period, and resulted in a substantial increase in cross-border trade.
The CUSFTA opened up new economic opportunities for both countries by providing access to larger markets and an increased number of suppliers. It also promoted investment through greater certainty around trading rules, and led to reduced costs for businesses dealing with customs procedures.
The agreement made it easier for citizens of both countries to buy goods from each other without paying high tariffs. It also allowed for greater access to services, such as banking and insurance, resulting in improved levels of consumer protection.
The CUSFTA was part of a broader effort by the two countries to increase collaboration on economic and political matters ,helping to strengthen ties between the two nations.
Since its signing in 1988, the CUSFTA has been a success story for both sides of the border; it has brought tangible benefits to businesses, consumers, and citizens alike. Its impact on trade and investment flows between the two countries has been significant, with total goods traded having tripled since 1990. The Agreement stands as an example of what can be achieved when two countries recognize the importance of free and open trade.
The main purposes of the Canadian-United States Free Trade Agreement are:
- Eliminate barriers to trade in goods and services between Canada and the United States
- Facilitate conditions of fair competition within the free-trade area established by the Agreement
- Significantly liberalize conditions for investment within that free-trade area
- Establish effective procedures for the joint administration of the Agreement and the resolution of disputes
- Lay the foundation for further bilateral and multilateral cooperation to expand and enhance the benefits of the Agreement
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Canadian immigration options for American Citizens and H-1B Visa holders
The Canadian immigration system has a number of options for American Citizens and U.S. H-1B Visa holders who are interested in moving to the country permanently or for a limited period of time. Depending on your goals and objectives, there is likely an option that can help you reach them.
Temporary Residence/ Work in Canada
The Global Talent Stream
This program is open to any employer who needs to fill an H-1B “specialty occupation”—a specific type of job defined by the U.S. Department of Labor that requires knowledge and experience usually acquired through advanced education or training—in a professional environment. That means if you’re looking for someone with expertise in software engineering, data science, artificial intelligence, blockchain technology, or another related field, then you could potentially benefit from the Global Talent Stream.
The process is relatively straightforward and can be completed online, allowing employers to quickly hire qualified workers who bring a unique set of skills and experience to the table. You’ll just need to submit an application with relevant information about the position you’re trying to fill, including your requirements for the job and provide evidence that you’ve made efforts to source Canadian talent before turning to foreign nationals.
If approved, your company can start recruiting foreign nationals almost immediately! Companies are encouraged to use the program as much as possible in order to remain competitive and attract top-tier international talent. So if you’re looking for someone with specialized knowledge or experience in a tech field, then the Global Talent Stream could be a great solution for your business.
Click HERE about hiring a Foreign Worker Through the GTS
Intra-Company Transfers
Intra-Company Transfers are an excellent option for employees of multinational companies who have both U.S. and Canadian branches. With this type of transfer, the foreign national on an H-1B visa can move from one branch to another without having to go through the entire application process once again. The employee’s new employer simply needs to file a petition with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) showing that the individual is transferring within the same company from the original branch in Canada to a branch in the U.S., and that he/she will be employed in a professional capacity at their new location.
The main benefit for employers is that there is no need for job postings or recruitment efforts, which typically accompanies the H-1B visa process. In addition, if the foreign national was already in possession of an approved H-1B petition prior to making their transfer, the entire application process can be completed more quickly than if they were applying from scratch.
For employees on H-1B visas who are considering a move within their company across international borders, Intra-Company Transfers are a great option that can save time and money while offering peace of mind. Be sure to consult with an immigration attorney before moving forward – they will be able to guide you through the entire process and ensure that everything is taken care of properly!
Using your experience for permanent residence/ Live in Canada
Express Entry
For those looking to become permanent residents of Canada, the Express Entry program may be the best choice.
Express Entry is an application management system that Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) uses to manage the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class.
Under this program, eligible candidates create online profiles that are ranked against other applicants based on factors such as age, education level, language proficiency, and work experience. Those with higher scores have a better chance of being selected by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Provincial Nominee Programs
It is also possible to become a permanent resident through the many streams in the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).
All Canadian provinces, except Quebec and Nunavut, have PNPs that work with IRCC. Under these programs, provincial governments select candidates that they feel will be a good fit in the province. Several Canadian provinces have immigration streams that are tailored to attract talent for in-demand occupations such as tech and healthcare.
FAQ
1.I am visiting the U.S. and I want to come to Canada. Do I need an eTA?
Most travelers need a visitor visa or an eTA Canada to travel to, or transit through, Canada.
What you need depends on:
- the type of travel document you will travel with;
- the country that issued your travel document;
- your nationality; and
- how you will travel to Canada.
P.S.US citizens do not need to apply for any type of visa in order to travel to Canada. All that is required is a valid passport and proof of citizenship (such as a driver’s license or birth certificate). It is important to remember that even though you may be able to freely enter the country, it does not guarantee permission to stay in Canada for any extended period of time. Any US citizen who wishes to stay more than 6 months must apply for a Canadian visa or permit. It’s also important to remember that there are certain restrictions and requirements placed on US citizens when entering Canada, so it is important to research the necessary documents in advance. Lastly, a valid passport is required to re-enter the US after visiting Canada.
We understand that the process of immigrating to Canada can be complex and overwhelming. That’s why we are here to help make the transition as stress-free as possible.
We will work with you every step of the way, to ensure a smooth transition for your migration plan. Our services cover all aspects of Canadian immigration law and practice – from applying for a visa or permanent residency status, to obtaining necessary documents and providing guidance on any other relevant matters related to moving abroad.
Our knowledgeable team is dedicated to understanding your individual needs and making sure you get the best outcome from your application. We strive to provide fast and efficient solutions, while giving you the personal attention that you need in order to feel comfortable and secure with the entire process.
If you are ready to take the next step towards a new life in Canada, contact us today and we will be more than happy to assist you with your immigration needs. We look forward to helping make your dream of living in Canada a reality!
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If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to get in touch.
***Please note government fees are to be paid at the moment of submitting the application.
They are also non-refundable if the application is refused.