The International Mobility Program is a government framework that allows Canadian employers to hire temporary foreign workers without the need for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). Its primary purpose is to support Canada's national interests by facilitating the entry of specific groups of workers who contribute to the country’s economy, society, or culture.
Employers hiring under the IMP must submit a job offer through the Employer Portal and pay a compliance fee, ensuring they adhere to the program’s rules and obligations.
The IMP includes numerous work permit categories, from open work permits for spouses and graduates to employer-specific permits for those working under trade agreements like CUSMA.
Even if a foreign national is approved for a work permit under the IMP, they must still pass standard health, security, and criminal background checks to be deemed admissible to Canada.
Some IMP permits are tied to a specific employer, while others are "open" and allow the holder to work for any employer in Canada.
Each IMP category has its own unique set of requirements and rules, and applicants must ensure they meet all the specific conditions of their chosen stream.
30 minutes with an expert
Answers to basic question
Overview of immigration pathways
Key information on requirements
60 minutes with an expert
Customized plan to maximize success
Eligibility review, CRS score, and best pathways
Guidance on required documents
60 minutes with an expert
Tips to strengthen your application
Answers to questions on forms, and requirements
Guidance on next steps after submission
A professional can determine which IMP stream you are best suited for, ensuring you choose the right pathway for your qualifications and experience.
Receive guidance on structuring your application and preparing all necessary documentation to meet the precise requirements of your specific LMIA exemption.
We can assist your Canadian employer with the technical aspects of submitting the job offer and paying the compliance fee correctly, preventing common errors.
Get personalized advice on your specific situation, helping you understand how your professional profile aligns with Canada's economic and social goals.
An IMP work permit is, in most cases, a temporary document. Its duration is tied to the job offer or the nature of the program. While it provides an excellent opportunity to gain Canadian work experience, which can be a valuable asset for future permanent residency applications, it is essential to understand that it does not guarantee a path to permanent residency on its own. It is a stepping stone that must be leveraged with other immigration programs.
For most IMP streams, the employer has a crucial and non-negotiable role. They must first confirm that the position qualifies for an LMIA exemption and then submit a detailed job offer through the official IRCC Employer Portal. This employer-side process must be completed before the foreign worker can even apply for their work permit. Failure to complete this step or providing inaccurate information can lead to the refusal of the work permit application.
The IMP is not a blanket exemption for all jobs. It is specifically reserved for situations where a foreign worker's presence in Canada aligns with a government objective. For example, a foreign worker may qualify if their skills or expertise are considered a significant benefit to Canada, if their role is part of a reciprocal international agreement, or if they are a spouse of a skilled worker. This targeted approach ensures the program serves Canada's interests without negatively impacting the domestic labour market.
The National Occupational Classification (NOC) is the official system used by the Canadian government to classify jobs based on their duties and the type of work performed.
To find your NOC, you should not rely on your job title alone. Instead, use the official NOC website and search for your occupation. Read the "Main Duties" section of the job descriptions to find the one that best matches your responsibilities. This ensures you select the correct code, which is essential for the accuracy of your Express Entry profile.
Use the official Government of Canada tool to access the complete list of occupations and find the code that matches your work experience.
For some foreign workers, an LMIA-Exempt work permit may not be the right fit. It’s important to understand the other side of the process and how LMIA-based permits work.
Yes. Most immigration programs designed to attract skilled workers let you include your family in your application for permanent residency in Canada. This includes your spouse or common-law partner and dependent children. Additionally, Canada has separate programs where citizens and permanent residents can sponsor certain close relatives for immigration.
While there's no age limit to apply for economic immigration programs, your age will affect your score. These programs award points based on various factors like education, language skills, work experience, and even having a job lined up in Canada. People between 25 and 35 get the highest score for age, but don't worry! If you're outside this range, you can make up for it with strong points in other categories.
If you're an international student wanting to study in Canada, you'll need a study permit. To get one, you must first be accepted by a school approved by the Canadian government (called a designated learning institution). You'll also need to show you have enough money to cover your schooling, living costs, and even the ticket back home.
Our commitment is to your success, and we never recommend services unless you genuinely qualify. We believe in open communication and will always explore the most realistic options for your situation. Furthermore, our unwavering support extends beyond the application process. We're with you every step of the way, even in challenging circumstances, ensuring a smooth and successful immigration journey to Canada.
Our team is committed to your success, and we'll explore all realistic pathways to achieve your Canadian immigration goals. We believe in clear communication and will keep you informed throughout the process.
© Can-Am Immigration, Inc. All rights reserved.
CanadianVisas.com is operated by Can-Am Immigration Inc., a Canadian immigration consulting firm. We provide access to Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCICs) licensed by the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC), as well as full representation services and self-guided immigration tools. CanadianVisas.com is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice, except as authorized under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and the Citizenship Act of Canada.
