
In some cases, LMIA-exemptions are granted for humanitarian and compassionate reasons. While the majority of LMIA-exemptions are granted due to either international agreements or Canadian interest, there are a number of LMIA-exemptions outside of these categories. Through this provision, certain companies may transfer a foreign national to a Canadian location in order to improve the quality of their business for the benefit of Canadians. Intra-Company TransfereesĪnother means of securing LMIA-exemption for significant benefit is through the provision of LMIA-exemptions for intra-company transferees. Generally, immigration officers will assess a foreign national’s past track record of success and examine testimony and recommendations of distinguished experts in the foreign nationals field in order to determine significant benefit. In order to qualify for an LMIA-exemption under the category of significant benefit for Canadians, the employment of a foreign national must demonstrate significant social or cultural benefit to Canada. LMIA-exemptions under this category must demonstrate that the exemption will be in the best interest of Canada, either by being of significant benefit to Canadians or through the maintenance of reciprocal employment relationships with other nations.

General Agreement on Trade in Services (GATS)Īnother popular category of LMIA-exemptions fall under the broad category of Canadian Interest exemptions.Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA).Canada-Chile FTA / Canada-Peru FTA / Canada-Colombia FTA / Canada-Korea FTA.
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North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).Canada has negotiated the following Free Trade Agreements, each encompassing a range of LMIA-exemptions: Certain types of employees can transfer to Canada from other countries, and vice versa, if they are able to demonstrate this will have a positive impact. LMIA-exempt workers may qualify for expedited work permit processing through the Global Skills Strategy if their position is NOC Skill Level A or 0 and they are applying from outside of Canada.Ī significant number of LMIA-exemptions are available through international agreements between Canada and other countries. Only after completing these three steps will the foreign national be eligible to apply for their own work permit. Submit the official job offer through the IMP’s Employer Portal.Pay the employer compliance fee of $230 CAD.


ESDC along with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) maintain an index of LMIA-exemptions which are organized through the International Mobility Program. While an LMIA is usually required for a Canadian employer to hire a temporary foreign worker, there are a number of exemptions to the LMIA requirement.Ĭontact us to discuss your work permit needsĪn LMIA-exemption refers to a situation in which it is not necessary for a Canadian employer to obtain an LMIA in order to hire a temporary foreign worker.

The International Mobility Program (IMP) enables Canadian employers to hire temporary foreign workers without the need for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). Work in Canada: Canadian Work Permit & Visa Process.
