International Mobility Program

Canadian employers can hire foreign workers on work permits under the ‘International Mobility Program’ (IMP). Under this program, Canadian employers do not require to have the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).

The IMP program is managed by the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), along with Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) and Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA).

The International Mobility Program is conducted:

• To enhance the economic and cultural interests of Canada
• To support the trade agreements of Canada with other countries
• For jobs which do not need an LMIA

Which Positions Do Not Require The LMIA?

LMIA is not required for positions in Canada that allow the country to preserve and expand its cultural or economic advantages. Positions that provide reciprocal benefits to Canadian citizens and permanent residents are also included.

Which Type Of Workers Are Eligible For ‘The International Mobility Program (IMP)’?

• Workers who enter Canada under specified trade agreements like the Comprehensive Economic Trade Agreement (CETA) or North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA)
• Workers with an open work permit who enter Canada
• Workers who are inter-company transferees to Canada

Process Of ‘The International Mobility Program’ (IMP)

• The employer creates their account and company profile on the IRCC employer portal
• Employer uploads complete job details like education and experience required, list of duties, wages and benefits
• The final job offer is released through the IRCC’s Employer Portal
• Once a job offer is submitted, a unique offer of employment number is generated which the employer sends to the foreign worker
• the foreign worker mentions this number in their work permit application

After the work permit application is approved, the foreign worker receives:

• If they are outside Canada, they receive a letter of introduction
• If they are inside Canada, they receive a new work permit
• A work permit is granted at the port of entry once the foreign worker hands in the letter of introduction

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