The emigration of Canadian's to the United States is not a new phenomenon. Canada’s geographic proximity to the U.S., the ease of mobility permitted by the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), and the abundance of opportunity in the U.S. all make for an optimal recruiting environment. Not only does the NAFTA agreement offer immediate employment authorization for Canadian citizens, it is also tremendously more economical than processing a visa or green card application.

CULTURE

• Most Canadian’s have no language barriers.
• Live in the same time zones, have similar democratic processes, laws, rights and freedoms.
• 90% of Canada’s population lives virtually on the border with the United States.

EDUCATION
Engineers: ABET is an independent American organization responsible for the accreditation of university engineering and college engineering technology programs. Engineers Canada and ABET have mutually agreed that the accreditation systems for undergraduate engineering programs in the U.S. and Canada are comparable. Graduates from accredited engineering programs in each country meet the academic requirements for licensure in both countries.

Healthcare Industry: Nursing and allied education in Canada is very similar to what is taught in the United States. Nurses can earn either a 3-year diploma or a 4-year BSN degree. One way to measure the clinical expertise of a nurse is by their score on the NCLEX exam. Per the NCSBN, the Canadian pass rate is always comparable to the US educated.

IMMIGRATION
Trade NAFTA agreement makes it easy. No sponsorship required; candidate comes in on TN Visa. However, candidate may be sponsored for permanent residency if desired by the employer. Retention rate is better due to immigration policies.

Some of the primary reasons our candidates tell us they are interested in the United States is because of:

Healthcare Industry:

• Lack of full-time work. Many have 2-3 part-time positions.
• Continuing Education Opportunities: Most have to pay for all advanced education and preceptorships. Many also have to pay for all certifications, e.g., ACLS, BCLS, PALS, CCRN, etc.
• Greater economic potential. Lower tax rate –Higher pay.
• They are attracted to working in U.S. hospitals to experience innovative technology; the ability to work with top-notch professionals; terrific benefits; respect by patients, peers, administrators, and the chance for increased responsibility.
• They tend to leave for more stable jobs in the health-care sector where the pay is better.