LMIA-Exempt Work Permits for FTA Country Citizens: 2024 Guide
How Citizens of FTA Countries Can Get LMIA-Exempt Work Permits in Canada
If you’re dreaming of working in Canada and happen to be a citizen of a country with a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with us, you’re in luck. Canada has several FTAs in place that make it easier for certain foreign nationals to obtain a work permit—without the usual Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
Skipping the LMIA process is a big deal. It means less paperwork, lower costs, and a faster route to working in Canada. In this post, we’ll walk you through which countries benefit from these agreements, what types of work permits are available, and how to apply. Let’s get into it!
Key Highlights
- Citizens from 50+ countries can apply for LMIA-exempt work permits under Canada’s FTAs
- Major FTAs include CUSMA, CETA, CPTPP, CCFTA, and CCoFTA
- Work permit categories include professionals, intra-company transferees, investors, and more
- Permit durations range from 1 to 5 years depending on the category
- Employers must submit job offers and pay a compliance fee
- Applicants must meet eligibility criteria and be admissible to Canada
What Is an LMIA-Exempt Work Permit?
Usually, if a Canadian employer wants to hire a foreign worker, they need to get an LMIA—a document that proves there’s no Canadian available to fill the role. However, certain international agreements allow citizens of partner countries to bypass this step.
These LMIA-exempt permits fall under Canada’s International Mobility Program and are available to individuals who meet specific criteria within each FTA.
Countries That Benefit from FTAs with Canada
Here’s a quick summary of countries that have FTAs with Canada and what agreements apply:
| Country | Applicable FTA(s) |
|---|---|
| United States | CUSMA |
| Mexico | CUSMA, CPTPP |
| Chile | CCFTA, CPTPP |
| Colombia | CCoFTA |
| Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei | CPTPP |
| All 27 EU member countries (e.g. France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Ireland) | CETA |
If your country is on this list, you may be able to apply for an LMIA-exempt work permit under one of the agreement categories below.
Types of FTA Work Permits Available
1. Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA)
CUSMA (formerly NAFTA) is a well-known trade agreement that covers four types of businesspersons:
- Professionals: Must have a job offer in one of 63 eligible occupations and meet all educational and licensing requirements. Permit valid for up to 3 years.
- Intra-company transferees: Must be a manager, executive, or specialized knowledge worker transferring within the same company. Up to 5 years for managers; 3 years for specialists.
- Investors and Traders: Must be actively involved in trade or investments between Canada and your country. Permit valid for 1 year.
2. Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA)
If you’re from an EU country, you may qualify under one of these categories:
- Professionals: Includes service suppliers and independent consultants. Must have relevant education and experience. Permit valid for up to 24 months (12 months max of work).
- Intra-company transferees: Similar to CUSMA, for internal transfers within the same multinational company. Up to 3 years.
- Investors: Must be developing or directing a substantial investment in Canada. Permit valid for 24 months (12 months of work).
- Technologists: Engineering or science professionals with at least 3 years’ experience. Up to 24 months (12 months of work).
3. Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP)
This agreement includes many Pacific Rim countries. Eligible categories include:
- Professionals: Four-year degree and two years’ experience. Occupations vary by country. Permit valid for 1 year.
- Technicians: Two-year technical degree and four years of experience. Permit valid for 1 year.
- Intra-company transferees: Same rules as above. Permit valid for up to 3 years.
- Investors: Developing or managing a substantial investment. Permit valid for 1 year.
4. Canada-Chile Free Trade Agreement (CCFTA)
- Professionals: Must work in an eligible occupation and meet all qualifications. Up to 3 years.
- Intra-company transferees: Similar eligibility as other agreements. 5 years for executives; 3 years for specialists.
- Investors and Traders: Engaged in substantial trade or investment. 1 year.
5. Canada-Colombia Free Trade Agreement (CCoFTA)
- Professionals: Must hold a four-year degree and meet licensing standards. Permit valid for 1 year.
- Technicians: Two-year degree and work in TEER 2 or 3 NOC jobs. Learn more about NOC TEER levels. 1 year.
- Intra-company transferees: Must have worked for the company for at least 6 of the past 36 months. Up to 3 years.
- Investors and Traders: Similar to other FTAs. Permit valid for 1 year.
How to Apply for an FTA-Based Work Permit
Applying for a work permit through an FTA involves both your future Canadian employer and yourself. Here’s how it works:
Employer Steps
- Submit the job offer via Canada’s Employer Portal
- Pay the $230 CAD employer compliance fee
- Receive an offer of employment number to share with you
Employee Steps
- Confirm you’re eligible based on your country and FTA category
- Review the official instructions and guidance documents carefully
- Gather documents such as job offer letter, proof of education, credentials, and work experience
- Pay the $155 CAD work permit processing fee
- Submit your application online through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)
Depending on your country, you might also need to submit biometrics (an additional $85 CAD fee). Remember, even if you meet all the requirements, your work permit is still subject to approval by the immigration officer reviewing your file.
Processing Times
Processing times vary depending on your country of residence and can range from 3 weeks to 5 months. Be sure to apply as early as possible to avoid delays.
Final Thoughts
If you’re a citizen of a country with a Free Trade Agreement with Canada, you’re already one step ahead in the work permit process. These LMIA-exempt permits offer a smoother, faster path to working in Canada—whether you’re here to transfer within a company, offer professional services, or launch a new investment.
Not sure if you qualify or how to get started? It’s always a smart move to get professional help to ensure your application is complete and accurate.
