CANADA

Canada is our featured country. Not only did Vancouver host the 2010 Winter Olympics, but their Canadian Hockey team won the Gold Medal

Canada is the largest trade partner of the US, accounting for 20% of US exports (first place) and 16% of its imports (second place just after China).

Canada is an advanced economy. The country is a leader in biotechnology, chemistry, digital media and medical devices. Canada is also one of the largest exporters of agricultural products, plastics and automotive in the world. Visit Industry Canada to get more information about Canadian industry.

The country has a market of 33 million. Canadians are mature consumers: they benefit from a standard of living that is one of the highest in the world and they are aware of the problems of the environment and over-consumption. Natural and environment-friendly products are preferred.

To build your business with Canada, take a look at Canada Business, where you will find a lot of practical information such as “Starting a Business,” Import/export, Selling to the government, etc. And don't forget the website of the U.S. Commercial Service in Canada. The site gives extensive information about the market with news and guides, and it lists many conferences, trade missions and training sessions.

If that's not enough, you'll also find plenty of good research at the Canada Mini Portal, a feature of the FITA Web site. The Canadian Mini Portal has an overview of Canada, with facts about the language, currency, climate, etc., plus more specific information about the economy, markets, taxes, labor market indicators, and tips on doing business in Canada.

You can find Visa and Immigration information at Taking Up Residence which advises:

Citizenship & Immigration Canada (CIC) is the agency which oversees all applications for temporary and permanent residency. They work in conjunction with the Canadian consular agencies and embassies located worldwide (270 locations in 180 countries) where the process for immigrating to Canada begins.

Your country of origin will determine if you will need a visa. A list of countries requiring a visa is available on the CIC website. Even if you do not need a visa and intend to immigrate to Canada on either a temporary or permanent basis, you will need to start by visiting a Canadian consular agency or embassy in your home country. Keep in mind that permanent residency applications can only be submitted from your country of residence or nationality, or where you have lived legally for at least one year.

Permanent residency application processing times vary by circumstance and location. They can take from as little as five months up to 70 months. The CIC website provides a country-by-country average that can provide you with a better idea as to how long it may likely take to process your application.

The process and what types of documentation needed for filing permanent residency will depend upon which type of application you file: skilled worker, business, or family. The procedures, steps, and fees for each of these are clearly outlined on the CIC website. In some situations, you may be able to initiate the process online. Another useful website which can answer many questions regarding the Canadian immigration process is Going to Canada.

Medical care is socialized and the Medicare system is adminstered by each province. I've heard mixed reviews of the quality of care including long waiting periods. Individuals can supplement their national health care benefits which can help reduce waiting periods for critical medical care as well as giving you the option to choose your own doctor. Our Global Citizen International Health Insurance plan covers US Citizens in Canada and gives you the freedom to choose a private physician or medical hospital or return to the US to receive quality medical care. Call us at 800.647.4589 for a free quote.