Long-stay / residence for Canadian citizens travelling to United States
Permanent residence or long-term status in the United States requires immigrant visas or other authorised status—not visitor admission.
For a Canadian citizen passport. Permanent residents and other travel documents can follow different rules.
Key facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Who it's for | Canadian citizens relocating to the United States. · Canada: United States travel advice (opens in a new tab) |
| Maximum stay | As granted on the immigrant visa or green card. · Canada: United States travel advice (opens in a new tab) |
| Cost | US government fees apply to immigrant petitions and visas. · Canada: United States travel advice (opens in a new tab) |
| How to apply | Follow USCIS and Department of State immigrant visa guidance. · Canada: United States travel advice (opens in a new tab) |
Each fact above is linked to the authority that sets the rule. Entry Visa Guide does not take applications.
Apply only on the government website linked above. This site does not issue visas or travel authorisations and does not take applications. Other websites charge their own service fee on top of any government charge.
How to apply
- Choose the correct immigrant or long-stay route on official US sites.
- File petitions and attend interviews as required.
- Do not overstay a visitor admission while pursuing status.
FAQ
Can a visitor admission be extended indefinitely?
Extensions are limited—see CBP and travel.gc.ca.
Does a green card need a prior visa?
Immigrant visas or adjustment of status follow US immigration law.
Sources
Independent guide, not legal advice. Entry Visa Guide is an independent information site. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or run by any government or public authority. Always check official sources before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Report an error.