Screening for a US Posting

Additional Considerations

A more in-depth look at some areas of concern

• Cultural and Lifestyle Shock

  A foreign posting, by its very nature, means living in a new cultural environment—and that inevitably comes with a certain degree of culture shock. It’s easy to assume that, since it’s the United States, it’s not that different from Canada—“just some trees separating us,” right?
  
  However, this mindset can quickly lead to frustration and unmet expectations. The truth is, cultural differences do exist, and they can manifest in various areas, from schools and churches to military installations and local communities. You might encounter differences in politics, gun laws, population size, religious practices, juvenile curfews, and more.

  As you adjust to this new environment, it’s important to remember that you’re a guest in the United States. Embracing and respecting the cultural differences you encounter will not only enrich your experience but is also a reflection of the respect and representation you bring as a Canadian.

• Financial Factors

  When considering a posting to the U.S., it's important to factor in various financial considerations that can impact your personal finances. Key elements to keep in mind include:

  • Cost of Living: The cost of living can vary significantly depending on the state or region you're posted to. Urban areas may have a higher cost for daily expenses, while rural locations may offer more affordable living but fewer amenities.
  • Exchange Rate Fluctuations: Since CAF members are paid in Canadian dollars, changes in the exchange rate between CAD and USD can affect your income and expenses. 
  • Canadian Income Tax and Residency Status: While posted abroad, your Canadian tax obligations may look different. It's important to understand how your residency status is affected by your time in the U.S., as this could influence your Canadian income tax filings.
  • Maintaining Canadian Investments: If you have investments in Canada, such as retirement savings, stocks, or real estate, you may need to manage these assets while living abroad. It's crucial to consider whether you need to adjust your investment strategy before you leave Canada
  • Maintaining Canadian Credit
  • Obtaining U.S. Credit: Obtaining U.S. credit as a Canadian is challenging due to a lack of U.S. credit history, different credit scoring systems, and difficulties opening U.S. bank accounts. Banks typically prefer clients to have a Social Security Number (SSN) and will require proof of your U.S. address, NATO-2 Visa, and other documentation. 

  These financial factors can have a significant impact on your day-to-day life and long-term financial planning, so it's important to carefully assess them before and during your posting. Before your move, be sure to connect with SISIP Financial or a financial advisor to discuss all of these considerations and ensure you're fully prepared.

• Language Barriers

  English is distinctly the predominant language in the US. Some of our MFS US Team Members are bilingual, so if you prefer to communicate in French, let us know and we will hook you up! Francophone families moving to the US should be aware that depending on location, access to activities, resources, and program services in French may be limited or nonexistent. Preparation for this possibility is important.

  All families should be particularly diligent if they have children who have been in French or French immersion schools in Canada or if they intend to eventually enter the French school system. If this is the case, it is essential that you are familiar with the Children’s Education Management (CEM) policies and benefits and reach out to one of our counsellors if you have any questions. We strive to provide some services in French, but also recommend accessing tutoring (if applicable), for learning English to assist with your integration into the community. We can help you get started before you move. Contact your MFS US Team Member for more information. 

• Geography & Environment

  CAF members and families are posted to 32 different states across the US and Thule, Greenland, but only 11 of these locations have MFS US Team Members on site. As you can imagine, every state has its nuances as well as every city within a state. Things that people need to think about can range from what elevation they may be living at (Colorado is over 6,000 feet in elevation – this may affect some people as they acclimate) to only having 5.5 hours of sunlight in the winter (Alaska can have up 18 hours of darkness in the winter months).

  Other things you may want to consider ahead of time can include:

  • critters or animals in the local area, specifically scorpions, spiders, snakes, or alligators,
  • the cost and time commitment to get back to Canada or for family to get to you,
  • island fever (isolation on an island) or living in an isolated community, and
  • climate events such as hurricanes, tornados, earthquakes, or high levels of snowfall or rain.
• Natural Disasters

  Natural disasters are a frequent and often destructive reality in the United States. While Canada is also prone to certain natural hazards, the frequency, intensity, and geographical variation of these events can be much more pronounced in specific areas of the U.S. Depending on the region where you're posted, you may encounter certain types of disasters more often, and the severity may differ. Here are a few notable examples from different states:

  • Tornadoes: Oklahoma, Kansas
    Located in Tornado Alley, these states are frequently struck by tornadoes, particularly during the spring months. 

  • Hurricanes: Florida, Maryland, Texas, Virginia, Hawaii
    Florida is one of the most hurricane-prone states in the U.S., but Maryland, Virginia, Texas, and Hawaii are also vulnerable to these intense storms. From June to November, these states face the threat of hurricanes, which bring destructive winds, heavy rainfall, and dangerous storm surges that can flood both coastal and inland areas.

  • Wildfires: California, Colorado, Texas
    Wildfires are fueled by a dry climate, dense vegetation, and strong winds, leading to rapid fire spread. 

  • Earthquakes: Alaska, California, Washington
    Alaska is one of the most seismically active regions in the U.S., experiencing frequent and sometimes powerful earthquakes. California and Washington are also earthquake-prone, particularly along fault lines. 

  Understanding the specific natural disaster risks in your area is essential for effective preparation. Being informed about the hazards most likely to affect your region can help you mitigate potential damage and ensure your safety. For a general overview of disaster preparedness, visit our disaster preparedness page, or explore our location-specific pages for a more detailed preview of the risks in your area.

• Common Law Relationships

  The U.S. government does not recognize common-law marriages, meaning a common-law spouse is ineligible for benefits like TRICARE, Employment Authorization, and others available to legally married military dependents.

  Under U.S. law, the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) does not acknowledge common-law relationships for non-citizens. If you are not legally married, a cohabiting partner can stay in the U.S. on a B-2 visa for up to six months, provided the stay is temporary and not open-ended.

  Common-law partners may face challenges in obtaining a U.S. visa, and entry can be denied. Domestic partners who plan to stay longer than six months should request an initial one-year stay from USCIS, with the possibility of extending it for up to six months, depending on the primary applicant’s non-immigrant status. However, USCIS typically approves only an initial six-month stay.

  If granted entry, non-military partners will not have access to U.S. military bases or facilities, including medical services, Commissary, Base Exchange, and recreational facilities.

• Moving with Pets

  The border will require proof of vaccinations and wellness when moving a pet or pets to the US. To verify the exact requirements, visit the US Department of Agriculture website. Also, be sure to check specific details for your type of pet, as some pets may require an Importation License or not be allowed in the state. Requirements vary by state and city. To avoid problems, take the time to verify the requirements for moving your pet. Do your homework early to avoid any surprises!

  If you are planning to fly your pet to your new location, make sure you check with the airlines for any restrictions. Some airlines will not transport animals in the summer due to the heat in the cargo hold and on the ramp.
  
  Hawaii Bound - For those considering a Hawaii posting, please reach out to your location provider to review some of the requirements/restrictions you may face when moving with your pet(s). 

• Social and Family Support System Changes

  CAF members and families move, it is part of the lifestyle. However, moving outside of Canada is an entirely new experience that needs to be considered. Not only are you leaving behind your social and family support systems, but also the institutionalized support systems you know well (medical, dental, etc.).

  Having everyone consider this new reality is important to ensure a successful transition to both a new country as well as the new support systems they will be building. Things will be different from what you are used to. You need to expect that. But the MFS US Team is made up of military spouses and dependants living in similar situations, so we understand the new adventure you are embarking on and are here to help!

• Children's Education
  Please be aware that French Language Training is VERY limited in the US, and will not be comparable to Canadian standards. During your screening, Children’s Education Management (CEM) will address specific at-post schooling considerations; however, it is important to note that not all schools or school boards will address Individual Education Plans (IEPs) the same. 
  
  Visit our Children's Education webpage for information regarding assistance, allowances, and guidance for educational matters Pre-K through Grade 12.
• Driving & Transportation

  Many of our CAF members and families in the US are in cities much larger than anywhere they have lived in Canada. To put things into perspective, the state of California has a larger population than Canada. This means freeways, merging lanes, traffic, and time spent commuting, which may contribute to varying levels of stress.

  Couples or families with one car may want to consider whether this will be practical at their new post, especially with the lack of public transportation in some communities and the distance to some bases. Families with teenagers will also want to prepare for the difference in age requirements for getting a learner’s permit and/or driver’s license. Not understanding each state’s driving and license laws may result in delays.

  Ensure your Canadian license is valid long enough to ensure you are legally allowed to drive while you transition to your new state license.