LMIA exempt Work Permit

Service Description

IMP-work permits are exempt from LMIA, making them easier to obtain for certain foreign nationals. Several types of individuals qualify for this foreign worker category, including spouses of Canadian citizens and permanent residents, as well as some international graduates who wish to stay in Canada and Other Temporary Residents. Some of the most common LMIA-exempt streams are outlined below. International Agreements Canada is a party to a number of international agreements that facilitate the entry of foreign workers. Admission of foreign workers under these agreements is considered of significant benefit to Canada and, as such, does not require an LMIA. The Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), Canada-Chile FTA, Canada-Peru FTA, and Canada-Columbia FTA are examples of this case. ​ Visit the CUSMA Work Permit section for more information on how to obtain a Work Permit under CUSMA. Entrepreneurs/Self-Employed Candidates If you're an entrepreneur or self-employed candidate looking to come to Canada temporarily, you might be eligible for an LMIA exemption. Entrepreneurs are eligible for LMIA-exempt work permits if they can demonstrate that their work in Canada is temporary in nature. If you wish to come to Canada temporarily in order to start or operate a business, this category may be right for you. Applicants must be the sole or majority owners of the business they wish to pursue in Canada and must demonstrate that their business will be of significant benefit to Canada. This category is particularly well suited to owners of seasonal businesses. Entrepreneurs who have already applied for Canadian permanent residence may also qualify for LMIA-exempt work permits in this category. Intra-Company Transferees Intra-Company Transferees (ICTs) may be granted an LMIA exemption for a temporary transfer to Canada. Transferees must be considered executives, managers, or specialized knowledge workers, and must work for a foreign company with a qualifying relationship to the company in Canada. In order to be considered an ICT, you must meet the following requirements: · You must be transferring from one foreign affiliate of your employer to another foreign affiliate of your employer that is located in Canada. · You must be coming to perform management duties or executive duties on behalf of your employer’s Canadian business operations, or you must have specialized knowledge that is needed by your employer’s Canadian business operations.