Miami is a magnet for Canadians — from snowbirds to entrepreneurs — drawn by warm weather, no Florida state income tax, and a major international business hub. Moving to Miami from Canada can go by road or sea, and involves a US visa, CBP customs, and cross-border banking. This guide covers the practical steps for Canadians relocating to South Florida.
Moving to Miami from Canada: overview
Canadians move to Miami for the climate, the absence of Florida state income tax, and a fast-growing finance, tech and trade economy with deep Latin American ties. Snowbirds split time on visitor status, but living there full-time requires a US work or residence visa.
Because the US is a road neighbour, household goods can move by truck overland or by coastal sea freight — but US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) rules still apply at the border.
Visa & residency basics
- TN status — under CUSMA/USMCA, Canadian professionals in listed occupations can work for a US employer.
- L-1 — intra-company transfer for those moving within the same employer.
- E-2 Treaty Investor / O-1 — for investors and individuals with extraordinary ability.
- Green Card (EB categories, family) — permanent residence. Visitor (B-2) status does not permit working or full-time residence; confirm with a US immigration attorney.
Shipping household goods to Miami from Canada
Cross-border moves to Miami typically travel by road (a 3–4 day drive from central Canada) or by coastal/short-sea freight. Full-service movers handle the border crossing and CBP paperwork. Many Canadians ship selectively given Florida's climate and the availability of furnished rentals.
Customs & duties notes (US CBP)
Used household goods and personal effects you've owned and used can generally enter the US duty-free when you relocate, declared on CBP Form 3299 with a detailed inventory. New items, restricted goods (certain foods, plants) and vehicles have specific rules. Your immigration status must support residence. Keep documentation ready for the border crossing.
Banking & money
Cross-border banking is straightforward for Canadians: RBC Bank (US), TD Bank and BMO Harris offer US accounts that can be opened with Canadian credit history. Build US credit early. Note US tax filing obligations and report Canadian accounts as required; speak to a cross-border accountant about RRSPs and exit planning.
Schools & education
Miami-Dade has large public school districts plus many private, international and IB schools. Bilingual (English/Spanish) options are common given the city's demographics. Confirm school-zone (catchment) rules for public schools and admission timelines for private/international schools.
Housing & where to live
- Brickell & Downtown — high-rise city living, finance hub, walkable.
- Coral Gables & Coconut Grove — leafy, family-friendly, strong schools.
- Aventura & Sunny Isles — popular with Canadians and international buyers.
- Doral & Kendall — suburban, family-oriented, more space for the money.
Bringing your pet from Canada
Dogs and cats generally enter the US from Canada with proof of rabies vaccination and a health certificate; the CDC has specific dog-import requirements that have changed recently, so check the current rules before travel. Driving across the border with pets is common but still requires the right paperwork.
Destination charges explained
For cross-border moves, your quote should cover origin packing, transport, border/CBP clearance and delivery in Miami. Because road moves bundle these differently from ocean freight, ask for an itemised written quote so border and destination charges are clear. Our destination charges guide explains the typical line items.
Plan your move to Miami from Canada
Tell us your origin city and what you're shipping. We'll reply with a verified written quote and a clear breakdown of border and destination charges within one business day.
Request relocation guidanceFrequently asked questions
Can Canadians work in Miami on a TN visa?
Yes. Under CUSMA/USMCA, Canadian citizens in listed professional occupations can work for a US employer on TN status. Other routes include L-1 transfers, E-2 investor visas and green cards. Visitor status does not allow working — confirm your route with a US immigration attorney.
Is there state income tax in Florida?
No. Florida has no state personal income tax, which is a major draw for Canadians. US federal income tax still applies, and you may have Canadian filing and departure-tax considerations — consult a cross-border accountant.
Should I move to Miami by road or by sea?
Both are common. Road moves from central Canada take about 3–4 days and bundle the CBP border crossing; coastal/short-sea freight can suit larger or coastal-origin shipments. A cross-border mover will recommend based on your volume and origin.
Can I bring my household goods to the US duty-free?
Used personal effects you've owned and used generally enter duty-free when relocating, declared on CBP Form 3299 with an inventory, provided your status supports residence. New items, certain foods/plants and vehicles have specific rules.
How much does it cost to move to Miami from Canada?
It depends on origin city, volume, road vs sea, insurance and border/destination charges. Request a verified written quote based on a confirmed inventory for an accurate figure.
Do I need to become a Canadian non-resident when moving to Miami?
Canadian tax residency is determined by your overall facts and continuing residential ties, not just by moving to Florida or obtaining a US visa. A change can affect your departure-year filing and some assets, so seek cross-border tax advice before you leave rather than assuming a particular outcome.