Hello, you have many options as a Canadian entrepreneur moving to the US. If you are the major investor in your own company and own at least 50% of the company, you are eligible for an E-2 visa. If you already own a Canadian company and are opening a branch or subsidiary in the US you are eligible for an L-1 visa. If you are currently in the US as a student you may consider an H-1B visa. Regardless, of what option you choose you cannot just move to the US and start working. That said, you can make short trips to the US to set up your company without a visa, such as setting up bank accounts, signing legal documents, and agreeing to a lease.
Each of these visa options has its own timeline and various strengths and weaknesses. I am an immigration attorney in the US. I would be happy to discuss your options further with you on a call.
Having worked closely with entrepreneurs navigating the Canada-to-US transition — particularly in the tech and consulting space — here's what I've seen consistently matter most.
--- Immigration: Sort This First ---
This is the most critical piece and you're right to make it a priority. For Canadian entrepreneurs moving to San Francisco, the main visa options are:
1. O-1A Visa (Extraordinary Ability) — Best for founders with a track record
If you have media coverage, notable customers, awards, speaking engagements, or significant funding, the O-1A is a strong path. It's not just for celebrities — many early-stage founders qualify. Takes 3-6 months typically.
2. E-2 Investor Visa — Good if you're investing substantial capital
Requires a "substantial" investment (generally $100K+ in practice) in a US business. You must own at least 50% of the company. Canadians can apply directly at the border, which is a significant advantage.
3. B-1 + O-1 Bridge Strategy — Most practical for early-stage
Many Canadian founders initially operate under B-1 (visitor for business) while spending most time in Canada, then transition to O-1A as their profile builds.
4. EB-1A Green Card — The long-term goal for permanent residence
Similar criteria to O-1A but for permanent residency. Start building your O-1A profile now with this in mind.
For immigration attorneys, look specifically for ones with experience in startup/founder visas. Firms like Fragomen, Siskind Susser, or boutique startup-focused immigration lawyers in SF work with Canadian founders regularly. Expect $5,000-$15,000 in legal fees depending on complexity.
--- Practical Tips for the SF Move ---
1. Build your US network before you move
Join Canadian tech communities that have strong SF networks (e.g., C100, which specifically connects Canadian founders to Silicon Valley). Relationships open doors exponentially faster than cold outreach.
2. Banking: Open a US business bank account early
Mercury, Brex, or SVB (now First Citizens) are popular with startups. You'll need a US entity (Delaware C-Corp is standard for VC-backed startups) to open a US account.
3. Delaware C-Corp: Do this from day one if you want US VC
Most SF VCs expect to invest in a Delaware C-Corp. If you're currently a Canadian corporation, you'll need to do a restructuring. Services like Stripe Atlas or a startup lawyer can help.
4. Cost of living: Budget ruthlessly
SF is extremely expensive. Shared office space (WeWork, Industrious) typically runs $500-$1,500/month for a dedicated desk. Apartments near SoMa (startup hub) are $3,000-$5,000+/month for a 1BR.
5. Leverage your Canadian identity
Being Canadian is genuinely an advantage in SF. Canadians are perceived as reliable, collaborative, and less ego-driven than some US counterparts. Don't hide it — lean into it.
Happy to dive into the visa strategy, US entity structure, or how to position yourself for the SF ecosystem. Feel free to book a call.
