Canadian Permanent Residence vs. H1B Visa
The following table shows the benefits of having Canadian permanent residence status as against H1B visas. This information was gathered from our clients who currently hold (or previously held) H1B visas.
|
Canadian Permanent Residence |
H1B Visa |
| Free to work on any job; for anyone; anywhere in Canada (except Quebec) | Can only work for the sponsoring employer; cannot change sponsoring employer |
| Free to stay in the country and find another job | Must leave the US if laid-off or if company shuts down (out of status issues) |
| Individuals can easily start a business by registering with the Ministry of Consumer Relations | Cannot start their own business |
| Upon landing in Canada, new immigrants receive a permanent residence visa that can be compared to having a US green card | Many individuals and families face the risk of being sent back to their home country if their Green Card is not approved before the 6 year limit on H1Bs expires |
| Permanent residents can travel anywhere, anytime as long as the 6 month requirement is met | Traveling outside of the USA can face renewal risks when returning |
| Spouses can legally work in Canada without the need of employment sponsorship | Spouses needs a separate sponsor to be able to work in the USA |
| Permanent residents can apply for citizenship after three years of stay in Canada | It takes years to get citizenship. First, a long wait for the green card, and then a longer wait for the citizenship |
Read More
