International Mobility Program (IMP)

Work Permit and LMIA 

A work permit allows a foreign national to work in Canada on a temporary basis. There are various options available for foreign workers to come and work in Canada. These options can be broadly categorized into two: the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) and the International Mobility Program (IMP). 

International Mobility Program (IMP)

The International Mobility Program (IMP) allows Canadian employers to recruit foreign workers on a temporary work permit without a Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). The IMP includes international agreements such as the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) and the Canada-European Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), International Experience Canada, and Post-Graduation Work Permits. It also includes those coming to work in Canada under Intra-Company Transferees. The IMP allows employers to hire foreign employees without first offering the job to Canadians. 

A Temporary Work Permit may be a stepping stone for foreign nationals to Canadian permanent residence. Once they accomplish the required amount of work, foreign nationals may qualify for permanent residence through Canadian Experience Class (CEC), through a Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), or through a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). 

Foreign Nationals Who Can Work in Canada Without a Work Permit

The following foreign nationals may perform work in Canada without a work permit:

      • Foreign representatives and their family members
      • Foreign government officers
      • Performing artists
      • Business visitors
      • News reporters, media crews
      • Athletes and team members
      • Military personnel
      • Public speakers
      • Judges, referees, and similar officials
      • Civil aviation inspectors
      • Aviation or accident investigators
      • Crew
      • Clergy
      • Emergency service providers
      • Maintained status
      • Health care students
      • Expert witnesses and investigators
      • Examiners and evaluators
      • Convention organizers
      • On-campus employment
      • In-flight security officers
      • American cross-border maritime law enforcement officers

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