International Mobility Program

Leveraging International Free Trade Agreements for Work Opportunities in Canada

Canada’s participation in various International Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) opens up significant opportunities for foreign workers and Canadian employers alike. These agreements facilitate the entry of certain business professionals into Canada without the need for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), making it easier to access international talent and foster cross-border economic collaboration.

Understanding International Free Trade Agreements

International Free Trade Agreements are treaties between Canada and other countries that promote trade and investment by reducing barriers to entry. These agreements often include provisions that allow for the temporary entry of certain categories of workers, such as business visitors, professionals, and intra-company transferees, without requiring an LMIA. This streamlined process benefits both employers and employees by reducing the time and complexity involved in bringing international expertise to Canada.

Key Agreements and Categories of Workers

Canada has entered into several key FTAs that include provisions for the temporary entry of foreign workers. Some of the most notable agreements include:

• Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA): Formerly known as NAFTA, CUSMA facilitates the movement of business professionals, including traders, investors, and professionals, between Canada, the United States, and Mexico. Eligible workers can enter Canada to engage in specific business activities without needing an LMIA.
• Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA): This agreement between Canada and the European Union allows certain professionals, business visitors, and intra-company transferees from EU member states to work in Canada under specific conditions, without the need for an LMIA.
• Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP): Covering multiple countries in the Asia-Pacific region, CPTPP includes provisions for the temporary entry of business professionals, facilitating easier access to Canadian markets for skilled workers from these nations.
• Other FTAs: Canada has additional FTAs with countries such as Chile, Peru, Colombia, and Korea, each providing specific provisions for the entry of business professionals, depending on the terms of the agreement.

How Our Immigration Lawyers Can Assist

Navigating the various International Free Trade Agreements can be complex, as each agreement has its own set of rules, eligible categories, and documentation requirements. Our immigration lawyers specialize in helping businesses and individuals leverage these agreements to facilitate work in Canada. We provide:

• Expert Guidance on Eligibility: We assess whether a foreign worker qualifies under a specific FTA category, ensuring that the correct pathway is chosen for entry into Canada.
• Streamlined Application Process: Our team helps prepare and submit the necessary documentation to IRCC, ensuring that all requirements are met and the process is as smooth as possible.
• Ongoing Compliance Support: We offer continued support to ensure that employers and employees remain compliant with Canadian immigration laws throughout the duration of the work permit.

Maximizing the Benefits of International Free Trade Agreements

International Free Trade Agreements offer Canadian businesses a strategic advantage in accessing global talent without the delays and complexities of the LMIA process. Our legal team helps you navigate the specific requirements of each agreement, ensuring that you can efficiently bring skilled professionals to Canada. Whether you’re looking to hire a CUSMA professional, transfer an EU-based employee under CETA, or engage talent from the Asia-Pacific region through CPTPP, we provide tailored advice and hands-on support.