Why go to another country? I got out of India looking for a better life and opportunities. Canada will be a platform for my reaching financial goals, staying secure, and giving a good life to my parents. I know some people may not fully understand the challenges that immigrants face, and it can be frustrating when they make remarks like “Go back to your own country.” But I think it’s important to remember that everyone deserves equal opportunities, regardless of where they come from or their skin color. I think many immigrant students can relate to this point of view and the desire to strive for a better life.

Immigration Timeline in Canada

  • Year 2 - Finish Masters degree and join a full-time job
  • Year 3 - Apply for Permanent Residency (PR)
  • Year 5 - Apply for citizenship
  • Year 6 onwards - Continue a job, start a business, or take a year-long road trip; you’re now allowed to stay in Canada no matter what. Enjoy travelling with a Canadian passport.

Immigration Timeline in the USA

  • Year 2 - Finish Masters degree and find a job in 3 months or go home
  • Year 3,4,5 - Apply for an H1B visa and hopefully get in the long line for a PR (Green Card)
  • Year 5-20:
    • Keep working at the same company for the most part, in the same role.
    • Can’t stay unemployed for more than 60 days.
    • Pay tax but have no representation or rights.
    • Always live in fear of being deported or a change in the immigration rules.
    • No active income from businesses, startups, real estate, stocks, options, etc
    • Travel with an Indian passport. Have to apply for a visa to basically every good country.
  • Year 20+ - Wait for the government’s mercy and Green Card
  • Someday in the future - Get PR, get US citizenship and end up with their citizenship-based tax system.

The Problem of Extra Income Sources

If you only care about earning through your main job, this section might not appeal to you. That is relevant for those who’re interested in diversifying income sources through investments.

During the Master’s Degree

I can work unlimited hours on campus and 20 hours/week off-campus. During vacation, I’m allowed to work 40 hours/week, and I’ve seen some people even do 60 hours/week. For example, I’m currently working 20 hours/week for Bell and two other on-campus jobs (RA & TA). However, this isn’t allowed in the US, where students can only work 20 hours on campus. It’s tough to find good jobs with such restrictions. Also, in Canada, we have a single document to show employers, making it simple. In contrast, my friends in the US say they need to complete tons of paperwork before joining a company.

After Finishing Masters Degree

After obtaining a work permit in Canada, I’m allowed to have other sources of income, such as expanding my options trading, investing in real estate, flipping a house, or buying/starting a business. In my third year, I’ll gain permanent resident status, which brings unique advantages and, most importantly, peace of mind.

This isn’t the case for immigrants in the USA. Their salary from the employer must be their primary source of income. However, buy and hold investments are allowed since they’re considered passive income. I believe the inability to trade freely or do business creates significant limitations and results in substantial opportunity costs.

What We All Live For… Peace Of Mind

As a Canadian resident, I have the freedom to change jobs or roles without facing any consequences. This flexibility makes it more likely for me to achieve better career growth by switching companies. It’s not just about money; it also involves gaining diverse industry exposure by working with different teams. After my third year, I’ll become a Permanent Resident, eliminating the daily fear of being sent back. This peace of mind is invaluable. However, this isn’t the case for someone in the US, and here’s why:

Getting Stuck Due To H1B

Switching companies on an H1B visa can be stressful and time-consuming, taking months in some cases. Occasionally, while changing companies, candidates may need to restart their lengthy Green Card process. I’m not suggesting frequent job changes, but staying with one company for over 10 years may not be ideal. Sticking with one company for 10-15 years can result in lower salaries, fewer industry connections, limited career growth, and less exposure overall. H1B visa holders can’t quit easily, and some companies exploit this situation. I’ve come across Reddit and Quora posts discussing how Fortune 500 companies take advantage of these circumstances. It’s crucial to research this issue further, as it’s widespread. Although online posts might be exaggerated, where there’s smoke, there’s likely fire.

Changing Government Rules

People living in the US on temporary visas are at the mercy of the government. A single executive order can alter someone’s fate and send them back home. Many of my connections in the US live in constant fear of deportation, being stopped at the airport, or facing changes in visa policies.

Where is the USA Better Than Canada?

Salary and opportunities. Salaries in the USA are typically double those in Canada, and there isn’t much to elaborate on. As for opportunities, only a few top companies have offices in Canada.

When considering job opportunities in Canada, Toronto and Vancouver are the two most realistic options. In contrast, the US offers a greater diversity of companies, cities, and climates. The USA is objectively better in this regard.

TN Visa Route - Best Of Both Worlds?

In five years, I’ll obtain a Canadian passport and have the option to work in the US. Canadians can acquire a TN Visa for working in the USA, which can be renewed indefinitely. The visa isn’t capped, and it’s relatively easy to obtain. Switching companies on a TN visa is also simple, so there’s no pressure to stay with one company for 15 years. It’s like having the best of both worlds: enjoying the higher US salary while having the security of being a Canadian citizen. I plan to stay in Canada long-term since I need the ability to own and operate a business, but it’s nice to have options.