Canada Opens Faster Work Permit Pathways for Free Trade Partners

 Canada is simplifying work permits for citizens of over 40 Free Trade Agreement (FTA) countries, eliminating the need for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). This fast-track option, effective in 2025, significantly reduces processing times, costs, and paperwork for eligible professionals, investors, executives, and technicians.

Typically, Canadian employers require an LMIA to demonstrate that no Canadian worker is available for a particular role. However, citizens of countries under this FTA, such as the US, Mexico, EU nations, and Indo-Pacific countries, can bypass this.

Key categories for LMIA-exempt permits include:

• Professionals: Those with a post-secondary degree and a pre-arranged job offer.
• Intra-Company Transferees: Executives, managers, or specialists moving from an overseas branch to a Canadian one.
• Investors & Traders: Individuals establishing or managing significant investments or engaging in substantial trade.
• Technicians: Under certain FTAs, a technical diploma and experience are required.

To apply, employers submit a job offer and pay a fee. Employees confirm eligibility, gather documents, pay their fees, and submit to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). While faster, approval isn't guaranteed.

This initiative offers quicker processing, lower costs, greater flexibility, and broader access to Canada's job market, benefiting both foreign workers and Canadian employers.

Share this: