Trump Wins; America Leaves

Emerson Freer, Reporter

After 511 days of campaigning, Donald Trump has won the election, causing many Americans to considering following-up on their promise of moving to Canada.

Is it really that easy?

The Canadian Immigration site crashed in the wee hours of Trump’s impending victory. The site stayed down until the morning of November 10. On the night of the election, 200,000 people were on the website; half were American according to CBC news. Compared to the 17,000 people who went onto the site at the same time the week before, Trump’s victory caused alarm among many Americans.

A couple wearing Canadian flags walks together during Canada Day celebrations in Vancouver, B.C., on Wednesday July 1, 2009. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck.

Packing up and moving to Canada as a full time citizen is not an easy option. Just like any other country, Canada has a long process to become a citizen. There are many forms, tests, fees, and appointments that have to be finished before one can live there legally.

“You just can’t show up at the border and expect to move here,” explained Jonathan Leebosh, an immigration lawyer with Ernst & Young in Vancouver, British Columbia. “If you don’t have a permanent resident’s visa, they won’t let you in,” he told the Washington Post.

However, if you are looking for a short-term escape, you may stay in Canada for up to six months before needing a visa.

The Canadian government announced earlier this year that they will accept 300,000 new immigrants this upcoming year. That includes refugees, people with family ties, and those who bring economic growth to Canada by creating jobs for the country.

Before moving there, it is important to understand the politics of Canada as compared to the U.S. The current Prime Minister of Canada is Justin Trudeau. Trudeau is the leader of the Liberal party. He generally holds left-of-center views such as legalizing marijuana, promoting gender equality, and advocating for pro-choice beliefs. Most of his stances stand in opposition of president-elect Donald Trump’s more conservative views.

This leaves many Americans deciding whether to move or not to move.