Canada IMP
The International Mobility Program (IMP) is a cornerstone of Canada’s immigration framework, offering a streamlined pathway for employers to hire foreign workers without the need for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). Managed by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the IMP facilitates temporary work opportunities that align with Canada’s economic, cultural, and competitive goals. This guide provides an in-depth look at the IMP, including eligibility criteria, benefits, application steps, and key programs, making it an essential resource for employers and foreign workers alike.
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What is the International Mobility Program (IMP)?
The IMP enables Canadian employers to hire foreign nationals for roles that provide significant economic, cultural, or reciprocal benefits to Canada, bypassing the LMIA requirement. Unlike the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), which focuses on filling specific labor shortages, the IMP prioritizes worker mobility, international agreements, and long-term advantages. It supports Canada’s broader objectives, such as fostering trade relationships, promoting cultural exchange, and enhancing global competitiveness. This makes it particularly appealing for industries requiring specialized talent, such as technology, arts, or multinational corporations.
Who is Eligible for the IMP?
Eligibility for the IMP depends on specific streams, each with distinct requirements. Common categories include:
Free Trade Agreements (FTAs): Professionals, traders, or investors from countries with trade agreements like the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), or Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) can apply for LMIA-exempt work permits.
Intra-Company Transfers (ICT): Employees of multinational companies transferring to a Canadian branch, subsidiary, or affiliate. This stream often applies to executives, managers, or those with specialized knowledge, requiring at least one year of prior employment with the company.
Reciprocal Agreements: Programs like International Experience Canada (IEC) allow youth aged 18-35 from partner countries to work and travel in Canada under bilateral agreements.
Significant Benefit to Canada: Individuals whose work offers substantial economic, social, or cultural value, such as entrepreneurs, researchers, or entertainers.
Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP): Graduates from Canadian Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) can obtain open work permits to gain professional experience.
Bridging Open Work Permits: These support workers transitioning to permanent residency, ensuring continuity of employment.
Applicants generally need a valid passport, proof of qualifications, and evidence that their role aligns with the IMP’s objectives. While there’s no universal age limit, certain streams like IEC have age restrictions (typically 18-35).
Benefits of the International Mobility Program
The IMP offers numerous advantages, making it a preferred choice for both employers and workers:
No LMIA Requirement: Eliminating the LMIA process saves time and reduces costs, as employers don’t need to prove that no Canadian is available for the role.
Faster Processing Times: Applications are typically processed in 2-8 weeks, depending on the stream and visa office workload. Some streams, like IMP+ for Quebec-related programs, may be even quicker.
Flexible Work Permits: The IMP offers both employer-specific and open work permits, providing flexibility for workers to change employers in certain cases.
Economic and Cultural Contributions: Roles filled through the IMP drive innovation, cultural exchange, and reciprocal opportunities for Canadians working abroad.
Cost-Effective for Employers: A $230 employer compliance fee applies in most cases, which is significantly lower than LMIA-related costs.
For employers, the IMP provides a competitive edge in accessing global talent. For workers, it offers a faster, more accessible route to Canada’s job market.
How to Apply for the International Mobility Program: Step-by-Step Process
Applying for an IMP work permit involves careful preparation to ensure a smooth process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Confirm Eligibility: Determine which IMP stream you qualify for (e.g., CUSMA, ICT, or PGWP) and verify that you meet the specific criteria, such as education or work experience.
Secure a Job Offer: The Canadian employer must submit an offer of employment through the IMP Employer Portal, including an LMIA exemption code. A $230 compliance fee is typically required, though some exemptions apply. The offer should outline the job role, salary, and duration.
Gather Required Documents: Prepare a valid passport, the job offer letter, proof of qualifications (e.g., degrees or certifications), and any stream-specific documents, such as a company transfer letter for ICT applicants.
Submit the Application: Apply online via IRCC’s portal, including the offer of employment number. Ensure all forms and documents are complete to avoid delays.
Await Approval: Processing times vary but generally range from 2-8 weeks. If approved, applicants outside Canada receive a letter of introduction, while those inside Canada or at the border receive a work permit.
Prepare for Entry: Approved applicants may need additional documents, such as an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), visitor visa, medical exam, or police certificate, depending on their country of origin and stream.
Enter Canada: Present the work permit at the port of entry and comply with its conditions, such as working only for the specified employer if it’s a closed permit.
Thorough documentation and adherence to stream-specific requirements are critical to avoid delays or rejections.
Key Programs and Streams Under the IMP
The IMP encompasses several streams tailored to diverse needs:
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): Allows DLI graduates to work in Canada for up to three years, depending on the length of their study program.
International Experience Canada (IEC): Offers working holiday, young professional, or internship options for youth from partner countries, fostering cultural and professional exchange.
Free Trade Agreements: Supports professionals under agreements like CUSMA (e.g., engineers, accountants) or CETA (e.g., business visitors).
Intra-Company Transfer: Facilitates transfers for executives, managers, or specialists within multinational companies.
Significant Benefit: Targets individuals whose work provides unique value, such as tech innovators or cultural contributors.
Bridging Open Work Permit: Helps workers maintain employment while awaiting permanent residency decisions.
Each stream addresses specific goals, from supporting recent graduates to strengthening international business ties.
Why Choose the IMP for Working in Canada?
You should choose the International Mobility Program (IMP) for working in Canada because it allows foreign nationals to work without a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), which saves time, costs, and paperwork, by facilitating entry for those benefiting Canada’s economic, cultural, or social interests through various programs like free trade agreements or intra-company transfers. The IMP offers a simpler and faster application process, increasing the chances of a successful outcome and providing pathways to long-term immigration through work experience gained in Canada.
final thought
The International Mobility Program is a flexible and efficient pathway for temporary work in Canada, benefiting employers and foreign nationals alike. By supporting roles under trade agreements, intra-company transfers, and significant contributions, it fosters innovation and cultural exchange. Whether you’re an employer seeking global expertise or a worker pursuing opportunities in Canada, the IMP offers a welcoming route. For tailored guidance, consult an immigration professional to navigate the program’s requirements and maximize your success.
- Canada
IMP
- Amount: $20,000 (Normal Price)
- Process Time: Approximately 12 months
- Payment Terms: 25% upon contract signing ($5,000), 25% after company registration ($5,000), 25% upon receiving A NUMBER ($5,000), 25% upon submission ($5,000).
Related Service
- Canada
IMP Setup for Visaed IMP Clients
- Amount: $15,000 (Normal Price)
- Process Time: Approximately 12 months
- Payment Terms: 100% upon contract signing ($15,000).
