Experienced Lawyers for US Immigration Services
Crossing the border for work, or getting turned away when you didn't expect it, both come with the same question: what do I do now? We guide Canadians through US immigration law so you know exactly where you stand and what happens next.
Our Services
- Temporary Work Permits/Visas (TN, L-1, E-1, E-2)
- Waivers for Inadmissibility (US Entry Waiver)
- Citizenship Renunciation
Why Canadians Choose Us
- Cross-border expertise: We focus on US immigration solutions built for Canadians.
- Tailored strategies: We build a legal pathway specific to your situation.
- Fast and reliable: We understand the urgency of job offers and cross-border challenges, and we work to avoid delays.
- Personal support: From your first consultation to your approval, we guide you every step of the way.
Working in the United States
Heading to the United States for work purposes? Set yourself up for success with the right paperwork.
Canadians enjoy unique opportunities to work and live in the United States, but the rules and requirements can still be complex. Our law firm specializes in guiding Canadian professionals, entrepreneurs, and businesses through US immigration processes, so you can focus on your career and not the red tape.
A short assignment still needs the right visa. Whether you are covering a project, training a team, or filling a temporary role, entering the US to work without proper authorization can put your assignment and your employer at risk.
Types of Work Visas for Canadians
- TN Visas (NAFTA/USMCA): For Canadian professionals in eligible occupations. Quick processing, often directly at the border.
- L-1 Visas (Intra-Company Transferees): For Canadians working for multinational companies who need to transfer to a US office.
- E-1 Treaty Trader Visa: Available to citizens of countries that have a trade treaty with the US, including Canada.
- E-2 Investor Visas: For Canadians investing in or starting a business in the USA.
We help Canadians figure out which category actually fits a short-term assignment and prepare an application tailored to that timeline, rather than a one-size-fits-all package.
Common Questions We Help Answer
- What is the difference between a business visit and authorized work?
- Does my employer need to sponsor this, or can I apply directly?
- What happens if my assignment gets extended past the original timeline?
- What documents do I need at the border versus in advance?
How We Help
We start by reviewing your job offer, assignment letter, or contract to confirm the right category for your timeline, then prepare your application and supporting documents to match. Where it applies, we also advise your employer on their obligations, and we prepare you for the border or consulate interview so there are no surprises when you travel.
Book a free 15-minute consultation and talk to us before you book your travel.
Turned Away at the Border? Here Is Your Path Back In.
Many Canadians are surprised to learn they are inadmissible to the US, sometimes because of an old record such as a DUI, an immigration issue, or a health-related concern. Being stopped or turned back at the border is frustrating and, for many people, embarrassing. It does not have to be the end of the story.
You may need a US Entry Waiver if you are inadmissible because of:
- A criminal record, including older or minor convictions
- A previous immigration violation or misrepresentation
- A medical or health-related issue
A waiver does not erase the underlying record; it grants legal entry to the US for a set period, generally 1 to 5 years.
What the Process Looks Like
Applying for a waiver means detailed paperwork, proof of rehabilitation, and strong supporting documents. We can help by:
- Assessing your eligibility and the strength of your case.
- Preparing a thorough application with evidence of rehabilitation and good character.
- Guiding you through the process to minimize delays and improve your chances of approval.
We approach every waiver application with respect for what got you here. There is no judgment, only a clear plan for showing rehabilitation, good character, and a genuine reason to travel.
Contact us for a free 15-minute confidential waiver consultation.
Citizenship Renunciation
For many Canadians who hold US citizenship, the complexity of living life across two countries is an ongoing burden. Dual citizens must navigate annual US filing requirements even while living permanently in Canada. American rules are layered onto every aspect of financial life: banking, investing, retirement planning, even estate matters. For many, especially high-net-worth individuals, renouncing US citizenship is about reclaiming simplicity, the freedom to manage one's financial and personal life without the complexity and cost of complying with a second legal system.
Renouncing US citizenship is a deeply personal decision with legal implications. We provide trusted guidance to help you make an informed choice and manage the process smoothly.
Renunciation involves:
- Tax Compliance Review: Working with cross-border tax professionals to confirm past filings are complete and accurate before renunciation.
- Exit Tax Considerations: Working with cross-border tax professionals on potential exposure to "exit tax," which depends on your assets and income.
- Renunciation Appointment: Appearing before a US consulate or embassy to formally renounce.
- Certificate of Loss of Nationality (CLN): Obtaining official proof that you are no longer a US citizen.
Our Role in Your Renunciation
We work alongside your accountants and financial advisors to ensure your renunciation is carefully planned and executed. Our services include:
- Reviewing your US tax compliance history.
- Preparing the necessary forms and supporting documents.
- Coordinating with consulates and guiding you through the renunciation interview.
Contact us to discuss renunciation or book a free 15-minute consultation here.
