Canada’s trade agreements with various countries make it easier for foreign nationals to obtain LMIA-exempt work permits through the International Mobility Program (IMP). These agreements promote international commerce, investment, and professional mobility by creating specific categories of workers who can enter Canada without needing a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
Foreign nationals may be eligible for LMIA-exempt work permits under the following categories:
Must fall within a designated list of occupations (depending on the agreement)
Must have a pre-arranged job offer in Canada
Common under CUSMA (e.g., engineers, economists, IT consultants)
Employees of multinational companies transferred to a Canadian branch
Must be senior managers, executives, or workers with specialized knowledge
Available under all three major agreements (CUSMA, CETA, CPTPP)
Foreign nationals investing substantial capital in a new or existing Canadian business
Must be directly managing or developing the business
Covered under CUSMA for U.S. and Mexican citizens
Short-term entry for business development, trade, or negotiations
No work permit required in many cases
Covered under all agreements
Specific to CETA and CPTPP
Must have a service contract with a Canadian company
Applicant must possess advanced technical or professional qualifications
Tailored Strategy
I match your business needs to the right trade agreement and work permit stream.
Document Precision
From business plans to contracts and credentials, I prepare complete, compliant submissions.
Application Guidance
I help you navigate Employer Portal steps, work permit applications, and potential interviews at ports of entry.
Scalable Support
Whether you’re hiring one specialist or transferring multiple team members, I deliver reliable support every step of the way.
Trade agreement work permits are powerful tools—but only if used correctly. Let me help you select the right stream and prepare a strong application.
APRIL IN THE ROCKIES Immigration Solutions, founded and led by April Sanders, a licensed RCIC-IRB and Director, is a trusted immigration consultant in Calgary, Alberta.
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