Canada recently ranked as the top country Americans want to move to in 2026, according to a new survey.

Nearly a quarter (24.4%) of respondents who are considering a move abroad chose their northern neighbour, citing cost of living, safety, and health care as key factors.

If you’re one of the many Americans eyeing the Great White North, here’s a look at the main legal pathways to live and work in Canada.

Move to Canada as a digital nomad

If you plan to live in Canada temporarily while working remotely for an employer or clients outside Canada, you generally don’t need a Canadian work permit.

Canada allows digital nomads to stay for up to six months or until the entry stamp date on their passport (whichever comes first). If no stamp was issued, the standard period of stay is six months

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