International Mobility Program (I.M.P.)

This offers a streamlined path to hire foreign workers on a temporary basis without obtaining a Labour Market Impact Assessment (L.M.I.A.). This facilitates hiring individuals who qualify under the international agreements Canada is part of. They are individuals with specialized skills or those participating in reciprocal employment. It thereby reduces the complexity of the usual immigration process.

Requirements for the International Mobility Program

This is allowed where there are broad economic, cultural, or other competitive advantages for Canada. Also, if there are reciprocal benefits enjoyed by Canadians and permanent residents achieved through the employment of the temporary worker. They should be highly skilled individuals from a multinational organization completing an intra-company transfer to a Canadian office branch. They should meet the requirements for an open work permit.

Once these steps are fulfilled, the foreign national can apply for a work permit in Canada. If their application is approved, then the foreign worker will receive a letter of introduction if they are applying out of Canada. This letter is an initial approval subject to an in-person examination of the applicant once they arrive in Canada. A border services officer swaps the letter of introduction for the work permit at the port of entry.

Who Qualifies for (I.M.P.)

An applicant qualifies for IMP when the applicant’s presence in Canada creates economic, cultural, etc. advantages for Canada & permanent residents enjoy reciprocal benefits.

Participants in Free Trade Agreements

These provide reciprocal benefits for Canadian citizens. Each agreement has different provisions that specify the type of employees eligible to work without needing an LMIA.

Non-Exclusive List of Free Trade Agreements:

Canada – U.S. – Mexico Trade Agreement
Canada – Chile Free Trade Agreement
Canada – Colombia Free Trade Agreement
Canada – European Union Comprehensive Economic & Trade Agreements

Canada – Honduras Free Trade Agreement
Canada – Korea Free Trade Agreement
Canada – Panama Free Trade Agreement
Canada – Peru Free Trade Agreement
Canada – Ukraine Free Trade Agreement
Comprehensive & Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership

Intra-Company Transfer

This category facilitates the transfer of key employees from multinational companies outside Canada.

Eligible employees include those in managerial or executive roles or those with specialized skills. To qualify, they must have been employed continuously by the company outside Canada in a similar position for at least one year in the three years immediately preceding the submission of the application.

International Experience Canada (IEC)

This program enables young individuals to work & travel in Canada through Working Holiday, Young Professionals, International Co-op & Internship programs. They can explore Canada, gain international work experience, and contribute to & learn from the Canadian workforce.

Post Graduate Work Permit (PGWP)

This is an open work permit available to students who have graduated from any eligible Canadian post-secondary institution. It allows them to work for up to 3 years. This is a component of the International Mobility Program.

The Spouse Open Work Permit

This is a part of the International Mobility Program. This permit is not job-specific & they can work for any employer in Canada. The temporary foreign worker or student must be authorized to work in Canada for at least 6 months or study at a Canadian post secondary institution.

The Bridging Open Work Permit

This serves as a transitional solution for individuals who have applied for permanent residence through specific economic immigration programs. It is also applicable to those whose current temporary work permits are nearing expiration, but they have to maintain their legal work status. At the same time, their permanent residency application is processed.

Frequently Asked Questions (I.M.P.)

Who qualifies for this program?
What are International Mobility Programs?
How long does it take to get a visa for the I.M.P. in Canada?
What is the difference between a temporary foreign worker program and an I.M.P.?

The Temporary Foreign Worker Program requires that employers obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment proving a need for a foreign worker. On the other hand, the International Mobility Program (I.M.P.) allows employers to hire foreign nationals without an LMIA, focusing only on economic, social, or cultural benefits to Canada.

How Can Canada By Choice Help?

Personalized guidance for your unique situation.
Tailored solutions to fit your immigration goals.
Step-by-step support throughout the process.
Expert advice when you need it most.
Proactive updates to keep you informed.

Canada by choice stands out with our commitment to the personalised client service offering thereby tailored immigration solutions that makes the process simpler and easier.

Ready to apply?

We are here to guide and support you at every step.We give you free assessment in a straightforward manner.You can book a consultation with us. If you decide that we are the right team as per your requirements, we will credit that consultation fee to you and henceforth we can move ahead towards our goal.