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Current IssueNovember/December 2024Sponsored Content

Destination Florida: How Canadian Franchisors Can Find Success in the U.S. and Become American Franchisors

Expand your company into the United States—with the right approach, and the right help

You’ve established your franchise brand, have a portfolio of thriving franchise locations (and growing!), and are eager to keep up the momentum. Whether you feel you’ve exhausted suitable markets within your province or you’re just looking for new avenues for expansion, there’s one surefire way to keep up your growth while providing your franchisees with more chances to succeed: turn your attention south of the border, specifically to Florida.

Benefits for franchisor and franchisees

Thanks to bilateral treaties established between the U.S. and Canada more than 30 years ago, there are straightforward ways in which you can expand your brand to our southern neighbour. The problem? Many franchise systems aren’t aware of these pathways, and those that are don’t solicit the correct help to ensure their success.

First off, prospering south of the border doesn’t necessarily mean engaging with American buyers and suppliers who aren’t familiar with your brand or your business goals.

“You don’t have to look to Americans to buy your franchise,” explains Richard Parenteau Sr., an international immigration and senior business consultant with 30 years of industry experience, and the founder of CanAm Immigration.

“Every year, thousands of Cana-dian citizens seek opportunities to immigrate to the U.S., particularly to Florida, by investing in your franchise concept,” adds David S. Gervais, ESQ, president and CEO of New York Immigration Law Group. “Through these investments, they qualify for U.S. business investor visas for themselves and their families. This not only allows them to emigrate but also empowers your most successful partners to pioneer your brand in a new market, with their investment.”

Beyond this, you have the chance to invite your existing franchisees to join you in expanding into Florida, assembling a “Dream Team” that puts you in the driver’s seat from day one. By transferring key employees who are crucial to their operations, they too can obtain U.S. business immigration visas for themselves and their families, with the added potential of securing permanent residency (green cards). More importantly, you can manage all your U.S. operations from Canada just as smoothly as you handle your franchise activities within Canada.

And let’s not forget Florida’s key advantages: no state income tax, a booming economy, easy access to international markets, and year-round sunny weather—not the toughest of sells!

Canadian franchise consultants

There’s a unique bilateral agreement between the U.S. and Canada specifically designed for consultants, brokers, and ambassadors to promote trade in services between the two countries. With your expertise and connections in the franchise industry, you have the opportunity to become a consultant ambassador in the U.S.

Imagine promoting Canadian franchisors as they enter the U.S. market and helping American franchises expand into Canada. Plus, you can obtain U.S. business immigration visas for yourself and your family, securing your future while driving growth for your franchise clients—another win!

“Through CanAm Immigration and the New York Immigration Law Group, we make the process seamless. Our ‘Dream Team’ of licensed professionals is here to guide you every step of the way. We’re your one-stop shop, where knowledge is power and careful planning leads to success,” emphasizes Parenteau.

Putting family first

Relocating to a new country can be both exciting and overwhelming, but organizations like CanAm Immigration and the New York Immigration Law Group are here to make the journey smooth and stress-free. Their dedicated “Welcoming Team” is ready to assist you with every detail, from finding the perfect home to ensuring your children are enrolled in the best schools, and even financing support. You’ll have all the help you need to settle into your new life in the U.S., making the transition seamless and helping you feel right at home from day one.

Since 1994, CanAm Immigration and the New York Immigration Law Group have been leaders in business immigration, helping over 7,000 businesses secure 27,000 U.S. business immigration visas and permanent residencies.


CanAm Immigration and the New York Immigration Law Group offer free consulting and invite members of the Canadian Franchise Association to explore their educational program. For more information regarding their services, visit www.canamimmigration.com or email rparenteau@canamteam.com