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Employment in the US

Employment Insurance

Once a spouse has resigned from their employment in Canada, they have four (4) weeks to apply for EI benefits in order to qualify. On the application, they will have to let EI know that the reason they are leaving their employment is to relocate with their spouse/partner to the USA (spouse/partner is with CAF). EI will put their application on hold until they receive their EAD.

Once they have received their EAD, they contact EI to let them know that they have received it. EI will then process their application for EI benefits, they now qualify to receive EI benefits. The EAD is what triggers the process, once they have received their EAD they are now legally permitted to work in the US and can actively begin looking for work - that's when they qualify.

  • EI benefits are not retroactive, they will only start once individuals have received their EAD, the sooner they get the EAD application completed and sent in the better. A delay in getting the paperwork done may result in a loss of EI benefits (weeks of payment).
  • EI will refer you to their international department and can let you know more details of their process. In order to qualify they have to be willing, ready, capable to work and actively seeking employment.
  • Apply for EI benefits as soon as you stop working. You can apply for benefits even if you haven't yet received your record of employment (ROE).
  • If you delay filing your claim for benefits for more than 4 weeks after your last day of work, you may not qualify and miss out on receiving benefits.

This information was collected from the Employment Insurance in Canada pages:

Pro Tips

  • You should begin the Employment Insurance (EI) application process as soon as you stop working. If you delay this process for more than four weeks after your last day of work, you risk losing out on benefits completely. 
  • It is recommended that you call the Service Canada Interstate Department (1-800-206-7218) once you know you are being posted OUTCAN to the US as each case is different. The Service Canada Interstate Department are matter experts for out of country assistance with EI benefits, contacting them will avoid any inconsistent or incorrect information.

  • Visit EI - Workers & Residents Outside of Canada for step-by-step instructions to assist you through the process.

  • You will require an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) to collect EI benefits while living in the US. Apply for your EAD as soon as you have arrived at your new US post. Visit our Employment Authorization webpage for more information.

  • Note: Benefits are paid in CAD and the easiest method of payment is direct deposit to a Canadian account.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • When can I apply for EI?

    You should apply as soon as possible once you have stopped working, even if your employer has not issued your Record of Employment (ROE) yet. Complete the application process online, this takes approximately 60 minutes to complete. If you delay applying for benefits beyond four weeks after your last day of work, you risk losing benefits.

    Eligibility to receive EI benefits once in the US is based on the validity date of your Employment Authorization Document (EAD). Therefore your benefits will not start or re-start until after you’ve received an EAD.

    You will be asked to fill out a questionnaire (INS5247) for your file after applying for benefits. INS5247: Interstate USA Employment Authorization Questionnaire is used to provide evidence of your legal right to seek and immediately accept employment while residing in the US, District of Columbia, Puerto Rico or Virgin Islands.

  • Once I get to the US will I need to do anything to continue receiving my EI Benefits?

    Yes, you may be required to show proof of eligibility to work. This means you must have an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). You cannot apply for your EAD until you move into the US, as you must have your I-94 from US Customs before the process can begin. It is highly recommended that you apply for your EAD as soon as you arrive. Visit our Employment Authorization webpage for more information. 

  • Am I eligible for EI Maternity or Paternity benefits while in the US?

    As a spouse of a CAF member you are eligible for Mata/Pata benefits, but you need to have worked for an employer insured under Canada’s EI program. For further details on your eligibility, see Regular Benefits Eligibility & Canadian Armed Forces. You DO NOT require an EAD if only applying for EI Maternity or Paternity benefits.

    For the CAF member, see your OR for eligibility.

  • Returning to Canada?

    If you are returning to Canada, you may be eligible for EI benefits if you worked outside Canada for a Canadian company or Canadian government. Call the CRA for more information at: 1-800-959-5525

    If you worked for a US company during your OUTCAN posting, you may be eligible to claim American Unemployment Insurance benefits. Please contact your state's Workforce Development Agency to find out. For more US Benefits Information visit the US Department of Labor website.

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