Trade Agreements

Work Without LMIA

Feel free to contact us for assistance in facilitating your temporary entry to Canada under eligible global trade agreements.

The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) offers specific programs that streamline the entry of foreign workers from countries under trade agreements, exempting employers from the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) process.

Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic Trade Agreement (CETA):

  1. Business Visitors:

    • CETA business visitors can enter Canada for regular visits related to a specific project, spanning weeks or months.
  2. Contractual Service Suppliers and Independent Professionals:

    • Citizens of European Union member states can engage in temporary service supply for up to 12 months, with commitments applying for the initial 12 months of the contract.
  3. Investor Category:

    • Investor provisions apply to those establishing, developing, or administering an investment, employed by an enterprise committing a substantial amount of capital.
  4. Intra-Corporate (Company) Transferee:

    • Similar to existing intra-company transfer programs, including graduate trainees.

North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA):

  • Facilitates temporary entry for business persons from the U.S., Mexico, and Canada involved in trade, services, or investment activities.
  • Removes the need for an LMIA for all covered business persons.
  • Business visitors do not require a work permit.
  • Professionals and intra-company transferees can apply at the port of entry.

Intra-Company Transfers:

  • Applies to employees transferring to work in a parent, subsidiary, branch, or affiliate of a multinational company.
  • Positions must be executive, senior managerial, or specialized knowledge roles.
  • Requires at least one year of continuous employment with the company planning the transfer.
  • Initial work permit duration is one year, with renewals subject to specific criteria.

These agreements aim to expedite the entry process, offering flexibility for eligible business persons to work temporarily in Canada. If you meet the criteria, we can assist you in navigating the application process and ensuring compliance with immigration requirements. Contact us now for more information!