International Mobility Program

The International Mobility Program (IMP) allows foreign workers to come to Canada temporarily without the need for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). The LMIA is a process where an employer must prove that no Canadian citizens or permanent residents are available to fill the position. The IMP provides an alternative route for employers to hire foreign nationals for jobs in specific situations that benefit Canada’s economy and workforce. This program offers significant opportunities for both employers and foreign workers to bring talent to Canada in a streamlined process.

What is the International Mobility Program?

The International Mobility Program is designed to allow foreign nationals to work in Canada without the need for an LMIA. While the LMIA process can take considerable time and effort, the IMP helps speed up the hiring process for certain categories of foreign workers. The program supports Canada’s economic goals by allowing foreign workers to fill gaps in the labor market in ways that benefit both the country’s economy and the workers themselves.

The IMP is especially valuable for employers who need to bring international talent to Canada quickly. Under this program, employers may hire temporary workers from abroad for certain types of jobs and projects that align with Canada’s policies and interests.

Types of Work Permits Under the IMP

There are several categories of work permits available under the International Mobility Program, which include:

1. Open Work Permits
   Open work permits allow individuals to work for any employer in Canada and are not job-specific. These permits are typically issued for individuals who are accompanying their spouse or common-law partner to Canada, students completing post-graduation internships, or individuals involved in international exchanges.
2. Employer-Specific Work Permits
   Employer-specific work permits require foreign workers to work for a specific employer in a defined job position. While these permits typically require a positive LMIA, certain categories under the IMP do not, making the application process more streamlined. For example, foreign workers who qualify under trade agreements or other international treaties may be eligible for employer-specific permits without the need for an LMIA.
3. Intra-Company Transferees
   This work permit category is designed for employees of multinational companies who are transferring to a Canadian branch, subsidiary, or affiliate. These employees often hold managerial, executive, or specialized knowledge roles. The intra-company transfer process helps businesses move talent globally and establish a skilled workforce in Canada.
4. International Agreements
   Certain international trade agreements, like the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) or the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), have provisions that allow individuals to work in Canada under specific conditions without the need for an LMIA. For example, professionals such as accountants, engineers, and IT specialists may be eligible to work in Canada through these agreements.
5. Reciprocal Employment
   The reciprocal employment category allows foreign workers to come to Canada if the situation benefits both Canada and the worker’s home country. These permits are issued for specific purposes, such as cultural exchange, academic exchange, or work programs where foreign nationals will benefit from gaining Canadian experience, just as Canadians will benefit from working abroad.

Eligibility for the International Mobility Program

To be eligible for the International Mobility Program, foreign workers must meet specific criteria, which vary depending on the type of work permit they are applying for. However, there are general requirements that apply to most applicants:

1. Offer of Employment
   Most individuals applying under the IMP must have a valid job offer from a Canadian employer. The job offer must be in an eligible occupation and meet the criteria for the specific IMP category.
2. Employer Compliance
   Employers must comply with certain legal obligations to participate in the IMP, including paying appropriate wages and providing a safe working environment. Some employers may also need to submit an offer of employment through the Employer Portal before the work permit can be processed.
3. Application Process
   The application process for an IMP work permit is largely the same as for other types of work permits. Applicants will need to complete the necessary paperwork, provide supporting documents (such as a job offer letter), and submit their application through the Canadian immigration authorities.
4. No LMIA Required
   A key advantage of the IMP is that it does not require employers to obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment, which simplifies and accelerates the application process. This is especially helpful for employers who need to hire international talent quickly.

Benefits of the International Mobility Program

1. Quicker Process for Employers
   The IMP speeds up the process of hiring international talent by eliminating the LMIA requirement. Employers can bring workers to Canada much more quickly, which is a key benefit in industries with high demand for skilled labor, such as technology, healthcare, and construction.
2. Variety of Work Permits
   The program offers a range of work permit categories, allowing foreign workers to come to Canada for different purposes. Whether you’re transferring within a company, entering Canada as a part of an international agreement, or seeking temporary work as part of a cultural exchange, the IMP offers flexibility.
3. Promoting Global Talent
   The program supports Canada’s commitment to fostering global talent and encouraging international exchange. By attracting skilled workers from around the world, the IMP helps Canadian businesses stay competitive and continue growing.
4. Pathway to Permanent Residency
   While the IMP is primarily focused on temporary work, foreign workers who participate in the program may later be able to transition to permanent residency through other immigration pathways. For example, individuals who gain Canadian work experience through the IMP may be eligible to apply for the Express Entry program or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP).

Final Thoughts

The International Mobility Program offers a faster, more efficient way for foreign workers to come to Canada and contribute to its economy. By eliminating the need for an LMIA, it streamlines the process for both employers and employees, making it easier to access a skilled workforce. With various categories for different types of work, the IMP provides opportunities for many foreign nationals seeking employment in Canada.

Whether you are a worker interested in gaining Canadian experience, or an employer looking to hire skilled talent from abroad, the IMP is a valuable program that helps create mutually beneficial opportunities for Canada and its international partners.