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SWAN Cross-Border Blog
Welcome to the SWAN Cross-Border Blog. We hop you find the resources you need to make your cross-border move so much easier.
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Retirement Planning Canada: A Comprehensive Guide
When planning your retirement in Canada, the first thing to do is look at your financial needs.

Tiffany Woodfield
Jun 112 min read


How to Become a Canadian Citizen as an American
Becoming a Canadian citizen as an American follows the normal citizenship path for all immigrants to Canada. If you're a US citizen with family or business in Canada, or if you've moved back after years away, you might want to make your stay more permanent. To become a Canadian citizen, you usually need to first become a permanent resident.

Tiffany Woodfield
May 197 min read


Can US Citizens Work in Canada?
Q: Can US citizens work in Canada?
A: In short, yes. US citizens can legally work in Canada, but it’s not automatic. There are key legal requirements that any American who wants to work in Canada must follow.

Tiffany Woodfield
May 1911 min read


How to Retire in Canada
Retiring in Canada requires careful planning. Whether you are a Canadian, an American living in Canada, or have moved back after time abroad, here are 10 steps to help you retire with confidence. Retirement isn’t just a date on a calendar—it’s a new chapter that needs clear steps and thoughtful decisions. The right plan can help you enjoy peace of mind, while the wrong one may lead to unwanted surprises. Each decision you make now will shape the quality of your retirement yea

Tiffany Woodfield
May 169 min read


Is Gifted Money Taxable in Canada?
In Canada, gifted money is not considered taxable income.
That’s right—if someone gives you money as a gift, you don’t have to pay tax on it. Whether it’s $1,000 from a friend or $100,000 from a parent, there’s no gift tax in Canada. You also don’t need to report it as income on your tax return. However, if that money earns interest or is invested, the earnings are taxable.

Tiffany Woodfield
May 138 min read


Top Things to Know Before Moving to Canada
So you're planning on moving to Canada? You're ready for your next adventure, and now it's time to start getting organized. There are hundreds of things you'll take care of before you move, but these are essential things to know before moving to Canada.

Tiffany Woodfield
May 1210 min read


How to Get Dual Citizenship in Canada
Understanding the process and requirements can feel like navigating a complex maze of rules. If you're curious about eligibility criteria, the application process, or the implications of holding dual citizenship, this post will help. We'll cover the basics of obtaining dual citizenship in Canada, including the steps and benefits.

Tiffany Woodfield
May 1210 min read


What Is FBAR?
An FBAR filing refers to the process of submitting a Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts (FBAR) to the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN).

John Woodfield
Apr 245 min read


How to Navigate U.S. Capital Gains Tax as Canadian Residents
If you are a U.S. person living in Canada—whether you're a Green Card holder, U.S. citizen, or dual citizen—understanding how to manage U.S. capital gains tax is critical.

John Woodfield
Mar 317 min read


How to Avoid Capital Gains Tax on Employee Stock Options as a Green Card Holder Moving to Canada
Reducing capital gains tax on stock options requires careful planning, particularly for Green Card holders or U.S. citizens moving to Canada.

John Woodfield
Mar 277 min read


Understanding the Green Card Exit Tax: Key Considerations for Expats
Renouncing your Green Card is a major life decision, and for long-term residents, it can come with significant financial implications.

John Woodfield
Mar 249 min read


Are Roth IRA Distributions Taxable?
Qualified distributions from a Roth IRA are not taxable. But what makes a distribution qualified? Whether or not Roth IRA distributions are qualified depends on several factors, including how long the account has been open, the type of contribution made, and the reason for the withdrawal.

Tiffany Woodfield
Mar 1010 min read


What Is Ultra High-Net-Worth Wealth Management?
When it comes to ultra-high-net-worth wealth management in Canada, it’s essential that you work with a firm with specialists who understand your situation and have helped similar individuals or families.

Tiffany Woodfield
Mar 29 min read


How to Move to Canada from the US: A Simple Guide
Moving to Canada from the US can be an exciting opportunity. But it comes with its complexity. It requires careful planning, particularly if you have substantial assets. Whether you're moving for work, retirement, or family reasons, it’s important to understand the main steps and prepare in advance. Below is a simple guide to help you navigate the key steps involved in making this transition smoother.

Tiffany Woodfield
Nov 14, 20248 min read


Do Dual Citizens Pay Taxes in Both Countries?
If you're a dual citizen of the U.S. and another country, like Canada, you are taxed on your worldwide income by the U.S., no matter where you live. For example, even if you're living in Canada and earning income there, the U.S. expects you to report your global earnings. However, most countries, including Canada, have tax treaties with the U.S. to help avoid double taxation.

Tiffany Woodfield
Nov 13, 20248 min read


Are Gifts Taxable in Canada?
Gifts in Canada are generally not taxable. If you receive a gift from a friend or family member, you don’t need to pay tax on it.

Tiffany Woodfield
Oct 28, 20246 min read


What Is the Difference Between an RSP and an RRSP?
RRSPs are the most popular type of RSP. They are specifically designed to help Canadians save for retirement.

Tiffany Woodfield
Oct 24, 20246 min read


How Hard Is It to Move to Canada from the US?
Moving to Canada can feel like an overwhelming task. For successful professionals in the U.S., it's not just about packing your bags and crossing the border.

Tiffany Woodfield
Oct 24, 20247 min read


The Cost of Renouncing Your U.S. Citizenship
If you're an American living in Canada, it would be wise to speak with a dual-licensed advisor before renouncing. There are ways that your cross-border financial situation can be simplified without the need to renounce your U.S. citizenship.

Tiffany Woodfield
Jul 30, 202413 min read


How To Bring Inheritance Money Into Canada
Reporting a foreign inheritance to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is crucial for compliance and avoiding potential penalties.

Tiffany Woodfield
Jul 25, 20247 min read


How to Determine If You're a Resident of Canada for Income Tax Purposes
This guide is an overview and should not be considered a substitute for seeking the professional advice of a cross-border accountant.

Tiffany Woodfield
Jul 24, 20248 min read


U.S. Taxes in Canada: A Simple Guide for Expats and Dual Citizens
As an American living in Canada, it's important that you seek the guidance of a cross-border accountant and a cross-border advisor. This post will provide you with some general information on U.S. taxes in Canada, but it’s no substitute for working with a professional.

Tiffany Woodfield
Jul 22, 202411 min read


What to Do With U.S. Mutual Funds in Canada
If you are an U.S. Person living in Canada and you own mutual funds that you bought in the U.S., you’re going to encounter some complexities that are worth understanding.

John Woodfield
May 18, 20244 min read


Working in the U.S. and Living in Canada: A Quick Guide for Canadian Residents, and Dual Citizens.
Canadian residents who work for a Canadian employer have a much simpler situation than Canadian residents whose employers are stateside.

Tiffany Woodfield
May 7, 202415 min read
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