top of page

International Agreement Work Permits

Canada has entered into several international trade agreements that allow eligible foreign nationals to work in Canada without first obtaining a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). These work permits are issued under the International Mobility Program (IMP) and are designed to facilitate international trade, investment, and the movement of skilled professionals between participating countries.

​

If you are a foreign worker or Canadian employer, determining whether an international agreement applies can save considerable time and avoid the need for an LMIA.

What Are International Agreement Work Permits?

International agreement work permits are LMIA-exempt employer-specific or open work permits that are available under agreements negotiated between Canada and other countries.

​

Depending on the agreement, eligible applicants may include:

​

  • Professionals

  • Intra-company transferees

  • Investors

  • Traders

  • Business visitors

  • Technicians

  • Certain accompanying spouses

​

Each agreement contains its own eligibility requirements, permitted occupations, and documentation requirements.

Common International Agreements

Canada–United States–Mexico Agreement (CUSMA)

CUSMA allows certain American and Mexican citizens to work in Canada without an LMIA in specific categories such as professionals, traders, investors, and intra-company transferees.

Learn more about CUSMA Work Permits

​

Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA)

CETA provides LMIA exemptions for eligible European Union nationals working in specific occupations or transferring within multinational companies.

​

Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP)

The CPTPP allows eligible citizens of participating countries to obtain LMIA-exempt work permits under several categories, including professionals and investors.

​

Canada–United Kingdom Trade Continuity Agreement

Following Brexit, Canada and the United Kingdom implemented a continuity agreement that preserves many work permit provisions for eligible UK nationals.

Benefits of International Agreement Work Permits

Applicants may benefit from:

​

  • No Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)

  • Faster application process

  • Reduced employer obligations compared to the TFWP

  • Access to specialized work permit categories

  • Support for international business mobility

How We Can Help

Determining whether an international agreement applies is not always straightforward. Eligibility depends on nationality, occupation, employer, proposed duties, and the specific provisions of the applicable agreement.

​

GLG Immigration Consulting Services assists both employers and foreign nationals by:

  • Determining eligibility

  • Identifying the appropriate international agreement

  • Preparing employer-specific work permit applications

  • Advising employers on compliance requirements

  • Preparing supporting documentation

  • Assisting with work permit renewals and extensions

Need Help Determining Your Eligibility?

Not every foreign worker requires an LMIA. If you believe you may qualify for an LMIA-exempt work permit under one of Canada’s international agreements, we can review your circumstances and recommend the most appropriate immigration pathway.

GLG Insight

​

Many employers assume they must obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) before hiring a foreign worker. In reality, Canada’s international trade agreements provide several LMIA-exempt work permit options for eligible employers and foreign nationals. Identifying the correct pathway at the outset can reduce processing time, simplify the application process, and avoid unnecessary costs. Before pursuing an LMIA, it is always worth determining whether an international agreement exemption may apply.

bottom of page