Moving from Canada to Florida – 2020 guide
Moving from Canada to Florida can be a great life move. However, it is safe to say that it comes with certain challenges attached to it. No matter what the motivation for your move may be, moving to a foreign country is never easy. Even when cultural differences between the countries aren’t enormous, it is still a challenge. The good news is that by doing research and getting prepared in advance you can make your adjustment to the Sunshine State lifestyle easier than ever before.
Procedural aspects of moving from Canada to Florida
Relocating from Canada to the Sunshine State is, for the most part, a big procedural process. There are things that you might need to do that never crossed your mind before. That is why it is very important to diligently do your research upfront. Once you arrive in Florida, you will need to hop to it. There is no time to be wasted.
You never want to lose the status of a legal resident
When planning your relocation to a foreign country you never should underestimate the importance of your legal status. So, the same goes when moving into the United States. The eligibility for different types of visas or cards will differ from one individual to another. That is why it is important to research to the last detail what can you expect from this process and what do you need to do. These are the most common scenarios:
- TN status – it is received on the Canadian-US boarded when you present your work documentation to interested parties.
- Green cards – can be sponsored by many different parties.
- H1-B visa– work visa sponsored by your US employer.
- Student visa – your educational facility is your sponsor.
Your legal status in the US is very important. Make sure that your paperwork is always well maintained and in order.
There are many more types of permits that will make you a legal resident in the US. Don’t downplay this process. Being insufficiently informed can easily lead you down the wrong path. Therefore, make sure nothing slips during this process.
Request your Social Security Number
This process will take some time. It will entail paperwork submissions and waiting at local governmental agencies to process them. Your Social Security Number will be your new personal US identity. Its use will be needed in many instances. Needless to say, in very important instances. For example, you will need it when working on your taxes, building up your credit score, while obtaining medical insurance and in many more important situations.
Your Canadian credit scores will go down the drain
This requirement might prove itself to be a bigger challenge than expected. Unfortunately, even if you had a perfect credit history in Canada, it will not count in the US. Wise versa, if you had a bad credit score, you will have an opportunity to get a fresh start. So, head over to the nearest bank and see how you can start building your credit score.
Obtaining a US-issued credit card is a great way to start building your credit score.
This might cause a problem when looking for a home to rent. The majority of landlords will request to see your credit score before they agree to accept you as a renter. Therefore, the hunt for the perfect Florida property might take some time. It would be great if you could stay with a friend in the meantime. Also, finding storage solutions while you settle down is always a great temporary option.
During your move, you will need professional help
Moving from Canada to Florida can turn into a bumpy ride. You have to plan a move and the relocation of your things, while at the same time taking care of legal documents. At first, this might not seem like a lot but once you get to it, you will see that it can get very overwhelming. That is why you need somebody to take a few tasks off your hands. Your documentation must be handled on your own, but your move doesn’t have to be.
There are many professional companies that can take care of your entire relocation process. Plus, since they are well experienced with all kinds of relocations from Canada to Florida, they will know all customs rules and regulations that must be followed. If you are still in search of a reliable company that you can depend on, get in touch with Pro Movers Florida.
You will need a US driver’s license when moving from Canada to Florida
Unfortunately, your Canadian driver’s license will not help you once you move to Florida. You will have to apply to the local DMV for a US/Florida driver’s license. Of course, you will have to pass the needed exams and they need to be booked in advance. Sometimes local DMVs tend to be overcrowded, so you might have to wait your turn. That is why it would be in your best interest to book this appointment as soon as you can.
Finally, you can have some fun in the sun
One of the main reasons why Florida is such an attractive destination for Canadians is because of its array of sunshine. There are not that many cities and towns in Canada that have the luxury of feeling the sun once in a while during the year. You can probably count them on one hand. So, now that you are living in Florida it might take you some time to get used to the weather. Once you are used to getting that extra vitamin D, you can truly start enjoying the weather in FL. Moving to a warmer climate is for many a dream come true. Still, there is a slight downside to it. You should also be prepared for hurricane weather. From time to time it will happen in Florida.
One of the best things about your relocation to Florida from Canada will be the chance to enjoy the phenomenal weather that Florida offers.
Don’t kick the can down the road
Moving from Canada to Florida will most likely be a great experience for you. However, don’t even try procrastinating your relocation obligations. All the paperwork that you need to do takes a lot of time. You might have to wait for some things to be finalized for a few months. If you need them in the meantime and you don’t have them, you will feel the lash back. So, take care of business first. Once you are done you can truly enjoy all of the perks that the Sunshine State has to offer.