Work in the U.S.

Apply to work in the U.S., run your business or to receive EI benefits while your family member is posted outside of Canada. Family members and spouses of military members over 16 are eligible to work in the United States. It’s mandatory to acquire work documentation, even if you’re self-employed or intend to collect Employment Insurance.

Canadian military spouses and family members over 16 are legally eligible to work in the United States.

To work in the U.S., even if you’re self-employed or planning to apply for Canadian Employment Insurance (EI), you need the following:

U.S. visa
I-94 arrival/departure record
Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
U.S. Social Security Number (SSN).

Check the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Website for updated forms and instructions.

Note: You will require proof of work eligibility documentation If you intend to apply for Employment Insurance (EI).

Step 1 - Update all Canadian ID and apply for a U.S. visa
Step 2 - Form I-94: Get it upon arrival in U.S.
The Form I-94 is the Department of Homeland Security arrival/departure electronic document issued to foreigners admitted to the United States at air and sea ports of entry. It allows for an extended stay in the country for non-immigrant visitors. You will need this number to apply for your Employment Authorization Document (EAD).

Already have an I-94? Retrieve your electronic document.
Step 3 - Employment Authorization Document (EAD): Apply once settled in the U.S.
Once you arrive in the U.S. and receive your I-94, contact the Protocol Coordinator to start the application for your EAD. You need the EAD to apply for a Social Security Number to work or obtain a driver’s license, or to collect Employment Insurance.

Submit forms and accompanying documentation to the Sponsoring Canadian Command Clerk in your location. If you don’t have a clerk, submit your CAF Support unit representative is for either CDLS(W) or CFSU(CS). They will review, endorse, and forward to the Office of the Legal Advisor who will then submit to Citizenship and Immigration Services.

Expect to receive your EAD card at your US home address within 8-to-16 weeks.
There is no cost for NATO family members, providing you go through your EAD Point of Contact.
Step 4 - Social Security Number (SSN): Obtain this to work or get a driver’s license
Step 5 - Renew your EAD, as required

Apply for Employment Insurance (EI)

Apply for Canadian EI benefits from the U.S.
When moving outside of Canada, spouses and/or dependents may be covered by Canada’s EI system. To be eligible for EI benefits, you need an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and a U.S. Social Security Number (SSN) to show proof that you are able and willing to work in the United States.
If you work for a Canadian company or Canadian government during OUTCAN, you may be eligible for Canadian EI upon your return.

Apply for EI through Service Canada
FAQ on EI during OUTCAN
Access U.S. benefits upon your return to Canada

Resources to support employment in the U.S.

Guide: MFS U.S. Family Guide
FAQ: Spousal Employment and Education Assistance
FSD: Foreign Service Directive 17.2.1
FAQ: Getting your EAD
FAQ: Renewing your EAD
FAQ: Employment Insurance while living in the U.S.
Presentation: How to complete the EAD application
Online resource: Canadian Centre for International Credentials

See the MFS Spousal Employment Support Services Privacy Notice HERE.

Work in the U.S.

BE ADVISED

Apply for Employment Insurance (EI)

Resources to support employment in the U.S.

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Work in the U.S.

Apply for Employment Insurance (EI)

Resources to support employment in the U.S.

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