What to Know Before Moving to North America to Live and Work

If you’re considering a move to North America, there’s a lot to consider before you take the plunge. From paperwork and visas, to housing and job opportunities, it’s important to do your research and be prepared for the transition. Here are some tips to help you in your move to North America.

Overview of North America

North America is the third largest continent in the world, after Asia and Africa. It is situated in the northern and western hemispheres and consists of 23 independent countries, as well as 13 dependent overseas territories. It is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the east, the Pacific Ocean to the west, and the Arctic Ocean to the north. The continent is home to a diverse range of cultures, climates, and geographical features, ranging from the Caribbean islands in the south to the Arctic tundra in the north. It is home to some of the world’s most iconic cities, such as Toronto, New York City, Los Angeles, and Mexico City. North America is also home to some of the world’s most spectacular natural attractions, such as Niagara Falls, the Grand Canyon, and the Rocky Mountains. About the reasons to live and work in North America you can read here.

Preparation

Moving to North America can be an exciting and overwhelming process. There are many things to consider when preparing to move, such as finding a place to live, getting a job, learning the language, and finding a school for your children. We will provide some tips to help make the transition smoother. 

Steps to Take 

1. Research: Before moving to North America, it is important to do some research on the area you are planning to move to. This includes looking into housing costs, job availability, and the local culture. Additionally, it is important to research the local laws and regulations related to immigration. 
2. Create a Budget: Once you have researched the area you are moving to, it is essential to create a budget. This will help you plan for the expenses associated with the move, such as travel, housing, and living expenses. 
3. Find a Place to Live: Finding a place to live is one of the most important steps when moving to North America. It is important to research the different neighborhoods and housing options in the area you are moving to. Additionally, you should consider the cost of living and rental prices in the area. 
4. Get a Job: Finding employment is a crucial step when moving to North America. It is important to research the job market in the area and find out what resources are available to help you find a job. Additionally, you should look into getting a work visa if you are not a citizen of the country you are moving to. 
5. Learn the Language: If you are moving to a country where English is not the primary language, it is important to learn the local language. This will help you integrate into the community and make it easier to find employment. 
6. Find a School for Your Children: If you have children, it is important to research the schools in the area and find one that is a good fit for them. Additionally, you should research any programs or resources available to help your children adjust to the new environment. 

Employment 

The availability of employment for expats in North America varies depending on the country, the profession, and the qualifications of the applicant. Generally, expats can seek employment in the United States and Canada, although there are certain restrictions governing the types of jobs that foreign nationals can take up. In the US, the H1B visa is the most common type of visa for foreign workers, while Canada has the temporary foreign worker program. Additionally, there are some countries in North America that have special programs for expats, such as Mexico which has the “Mexican Visa for Professionals and Technicians”. 

United States 

In the United States, the most common type of visa for foreign workers is the H1B visa. This visa allows an individual to work in the US for a specific employer for a period of up to three years, and it is renewable. To qualify for the H1B visa, the individual must have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent, as well as specialized knowledge in a specific field. The individual must also have a job offer from a US employer and be able to demonstrate that the job is not available to a US citizen. 

Canada 

In Canada, the most common type of visa for foreign workers is the temporary foreign worker program. This program allows employers to hire foreign nationals to fill temporary positions that are not available to Canadian citizens or permanent residents. To qualify for this program, the individual must have a job offer from a Canadian employer and be able to demonstrate that the job is not available to a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. Additionally, the individual must meet certain criteria, such as having work experience in the field, meeting language proficiency requirements, and having the necessary education and training. 

Mexico 

Mexico has a special program called the “Mexican Visa for Professionals and Technicians”. This program allows foreign nationals to work in Mexico for up to three years in certain professions, such as engineering, architecture, and medicine. To qualify for this program, the individual must have a job offer from a Mexican employer and have the necessary qualifications for the job. Additionally, the individual must meet language proficiency requirements and have the required work experience. 

Moving to North America to live and work can be a very rewarding experience if you are prepared. It is important to understand the local culture and laws, take into account the cost of living, and be ready to make the necessary adjustments to fit in. With patience and research, you can make the process of moving to North America to live and work a successful one. So, don’t be afraid to take the plunge and explore all that North America has to offer!