Work Visa for Canadian Software Developer

[AFriendlyCanadian 0]

Hey everyone, I'm brand new here and found out about this forum via Reddit.

 

How am I able to move to the US as a Canadian citizen? I work as a software developer, but I have an Ontario Advanced Diploma for a Computer Programmer Analyst, not a bachelors degree, so does that mean I can't apply under NAFTA? I'm aware that the immigration can be a lot easier if I can get a company to sponsor me for work, but was wondering if I can apply for a visa independently so that I can apply to any US jobs since I'd be authorized to work within the US.

 

Another thing to mention if it's worth anything, I do have a close family member (cousin) who's a US citizen with a family.

 

Any help would be extremely appreciated, please let me know if you require any more details.

Thank you!

Edited September 14, 2021 by AFriendlyCanadian

[Boiler 46,113]

EB2 with a National Interest Waiver but that sounds unlikely.

[SusieQQQ 11,587]

2 hours ago, AFriendlyCanadian said:

was wondering if I can apply for a visa independently so that I can apply to any US jobs since I'd be authorized to work within the US.

Unless you’re specialized and renowned enough for an O visa, no. 
https://www.uscis.gov/working-in-the-united-states/temporary-workers/o-1-visa-individuals-with-extraordinary-ability-or-achievement

[AFriendlyCanadian 0]

Thank you both for your replies @Boiler @SusieQQQ, I will continue to search for a company that will sponsor me.

[canadian_wife 1,829]

On 9/14/2021 at 1:19 PM, AFriendlyCanadian said:

 

 

How am I able to move to the US as a Canadian citizen? I work as a software developer, but I have an Ontario Advanced Diploma for a Computer Programmer Analyst, not a bachelors degree, so does that mean I can't apply under NAFTA? 

 

 

Does your profession fall into one of the NAFTA categories and do you have a job that falls within the requirements

https://www.nafsa.org/_/file/_/amresource/8cfr2146.htm

 

Good luck 

[Boiler 46,113]

Does not have the qualifications and needs a sponsor.

[SalishSea 18,144]

On 9/14/2021 at 10:19 AM, AFriendlyCanadian said:

Another thing to mention if it's worth anything, I do have a close family member (cousin) who's a US citizen with a family.

Unfortunately, cousins are not considered close relatives by US immigration, and there is no path for that person to sponsor you for an immigrant visa.