can I work for an american company while living in canada?

Question

I would like to live permanently in canada but work for an american company.

Here is some clarification:

I currently work for a small Internet company in the U.S. (a startup).
My girlfriend (soon to be fiancee) lives in Saskatchewan.
You do not need a job offer for the Canada Federal Skilled Worker Visa.
Is it possible for me to keep my job while emigrating to Canada under the Skilled Worker Program?

Answer 1

I'm not clear as to whether the American company that you work for is located in the US or in Canada (there are American companies located in Canada), where do you physically work? US or Canada?
If it's an American company that is located in Canada and you are currently working there or can get a job at the Canadian location, then yes, you can live in Canada.
If you are talking about living in Canada while you work for the American company within the US (meaning that you will compute back and forth) you will need to apply for status within Canada. You can not just go and live in Canada. If you are a United States citizen you are legally allowed to visit Canada for up to 6 months. Therefore you could visit your girlfriend for up to six months (provided you have no criminal record including a DWI). Immigration at the boarder documents every entry into Canada on their computer system. When they ask you questions at the boarder, they usually already know the answer. If they see you coming and going a lot they will question why and may not permit you back in. You can often extend that visiting time when your six months is running out by applying for an extended visitor's visa at Canadian immigration. You can usually apply at any port of entry (boarder crossing). There is a fee. I am not sure but I think that it is $75.00 (Canadia Funds) or it could be $150.00, I can't recall exactly.
Another choice, which is a bit more involved, is applying for permanent residency. This process is a bit more lengthy. The cost is $450.00 (Canadian funds) but there are a few other related costs. If your girlfriend works she would be able to "sponsor" you and that will cost an additional $75.00 or you can just apply independently. During this you will have to show that you are able to support yourself (unless your girlfriend is willing to sponsor you). There is also an immigration physical that you would need to get and the total cost of that is $191.00 (Canadian funds), this includes the physical, lab work and x-rays (it gets submitted right to immigration). You will also have to submit an FBI backround check to immigration. These are basically all the steps for applying for perminant residency to Canada. It is best to start getting everything done before you actually submit the application. It makes things go faster. It is a process and can take up to a year, and on occasion longer, to be approved.
I suggest that when you get a chance, stop at an immigration area at any port of entry and ask to speak with an immigration officer. Have all your questions ready and they are usually very helpful and able to assist you with all of your questions. It is honestly best to talk with them directly about your concerns because, although there are many well meaning people out there that can offer you advice, you may find that it is not always correct advice.
Also, if your current job is in the US, you can not use the skilled worker program to live in Canada unless you are going to physically work in Canada.
I wish you the best of luck!

Answer 2

Sure, why not? There are plenty of American companies in Canada ... General Motors and Ford are just two that come to mind.

I'm curious why working for an American company is such a big deal for you. Most people don't care about the national ownership of the company they work for. They are looking at other factors such as: where can they find a rewarding and challenging career, enjoy their work, be free from harassment and discrimination, get good pay and benefits for them and their family, have job security, opportunity for job advancement ... these other factors are more important to most people.

Answer 3

Sure, I've worked for a British company in America...and an Israeli company.

Answer 4

Yes.

You should consult a tax expert though. You might have to pay taxes in both countries depending on your official status according to each respective government and your company.

Answer 5

sure....why not, there must be a number of American companies with offices in Canada...afterall, it is not that far away...check with corporate offices on company websites

Answer 6

crossing the boarder every day or being a representative in Canada? You are not clear.

Answer 7

yes, but then you have to pay american income tax and file taxes in the US at the end of the year