Canada —> US Transitioning for Recent Grads
Have been thinking a lot more about leaving Canada, and would love to hear about how people have been able to do it.
I didn’t do an internship in the States and I’m wondering if that’s really the only pipeline to get there. For reference, I’m a new grad with some experience in IB, but only have worked in Canada. Most people that I’ve talked to that transitioned to NY have lateraled after doing a year of IB (only at one of the big 5).
Is there a real shot at landing in NY for example straight out of grad, or do you have to do a year at one of the big five first. Would be interested to hear peoples’ experiences with this
Transitioning from Canada to the U.S. for investment banking as a recent grad can be challenging but not impossible. Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some key insights:
Internship Pipeline: Not having an internship in the U.S. does make the transition tougher. Internships are often the most direct route to securing a full-time role in the U.S., as they allow you to build connections and demonstrate your capabilities within the U.S. market.
Lateral Moves After a Year: Many individuals who successfully transition to NYC from Canada do so after completing a year or more at one of the Big Five Canadian banks (RBC, BMO, TD, Scotia, or CIBC). This experience helps build credibility and provides a track record that U.S. firms value.
Straight Out of Graduation: While it’s not impossible to land a role in NYC directly after graduation, it’s significantly harder without prior U.S. experience or internships. Networking extensively and leveraging alumni connections from your university can help, but firms often prioritize candidates with U.S. internships or work experience.
Visa Considerations: As a Canadian citizen, you may be eligible for a TN visa under NAFTA/USMCA, which simplifies the process for certain roles, including financial analysts. However, not all firms sponsor or are familiar with this process, so it’s crucial to confirm this during your application process.
Networking and Targeting Firms: Networking is critical. Focus on firms that have a history of hiring Canadians or are open to international candidates. Additionally, boutique or middle-market firms in the U.S. may be more flexible compared to bulge brackets or elite boutiques.
Alternative Pathways: If transitioning directly to NYC proves difficult, consider starting at a Canadian bank, gaining experience, and then lateraling. Another option is pursuing a top MBA program in the U.S., which can provide access to structured recruiting pipelines for associate roles.
In summary, while transitioning directly to NYC as a new grad without U.S. internships is challenging, it’s not entirely out of reach. However, the more common and reliable path involves gaining experience at a Big Five Canadian bank and lateraling after a year or two. Networking and leveraging your Canadian experience strategically will be key.
Sources: IBD Barriers to Entry For Canadians and How to Overcome Them, Canada to NYC Lateral, Transitioning from Tech Sales to IB, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/investment-banking-in-the-uk-an-overview?customgpt=1, Intro to Investment Banking
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