Cross-Border Planning

Pre-Move Sprint: the 90 days before Canadian residency

How Americans moving to Canada minimize tax, avoid account freezes and prepare documents in the 90 days before residency.

At a glance

  • Why it matters: Without preparation, accounts can be frozen or liquidated after your address changes. Taxes can double up if income is mistimed.
  • Solution: Plan early with a cross-border advisor and CPA; transfer accounts in kind; time income events.

Key risks and fixes

  • Frozen accounts: Open CAD/USD cross-border accounts and initiate transfers early.
  • Double taxation: Handle bonuses, options or Roth conversions before Canadian residency.
  • Missing paperwork: Collect statements, cost basis and IRS/CBP forms before moving.
  • Estate conflicts: Align wills and beneficiaries for both countries.

Action timeline

  • 90 days before the move: Notify your advisor, CPA and immigration counsel.
  • 60 days before: Open USD/CAD accounts, prepare ACATS/DTC transfers.
  • 30 days before: Confirm your residency date with your CPA; complete income planning.

Quick checklist

  • Gather tax returns, account statements, estate and immigration documents.
  • Set aside an emergency CAD and USD cash buffer.
  • Review and update beneficiary designations.
Case example, the Roth window: part of a Traditional IRA was converted before residency, preserving Roth advantages in Canada.

Bottom line: 90 days of preparation avoids frozen accounts, double taxation and paperwork surprises.

DisclaimerThis article is provided by Cross Border Wealth for general information and education only. It is not personalized financial, investment, tax, legal, accounting or immigration advice, and it is not an offer or solicitation to buy or sell any security or to use any service. The information comes from sources believed to be reliable, but we cannot guarantee that it is accurate, complete or current. Tax and securities rules in Canada and the United States change often. An article reflects the rules as the author understood them on its publication date, or on the update date shown. Articles are not continuously monitored or revised after publication, so an older article may no longer be current. Check the date and the official sources listed at the end of the article before acting. The views expressed are those of the author, Chris Mills. Cross Border Wealth does not provide advisory services and is not a registered dealer, adviser, accounting firm or law firm. The author writes in a personal capacity, and their views do not represent any firm they are associated with. Obtain independent advice from a qualified cross-border tax, legal or immigration professional before acting on anything you read here. Any investment decision should be reviewed with a licensed advisor to confirm it is suitable for your circumstances, objectives and risk tolerance. Any professional you are introduced to through this site may only conduct business with residents of the jurisdictions in which they are properly registered. Case examples are illustrative and do not guarantee a similar result for anyone else.

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About the author
CM
Chris Mills
Wealth Advisor · Writes in a personal capacity

Chris is a cross-border financial advisor licensed in both Canada and the United States. He helps Americans moving to Canada and Canadians moving to the U.S. keep their retirement accounts intact and build one plan that covers both sides of the border. He writes for Cross Border Wealth in his personal capacity.

Disclosure: Chris writes in his personal capacity; his views do not represent any firm he is associated with. Cross Border Wealth does not provide advisory services. If you need advice, use the Get connected form and we will introduce you to a licensed professional.

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