International Mobility Program (IMP) – Hiring Without an LMIA

The International Mobility Program (IMP) enables Canadian employers to hire temporary foreign workers without undergoing a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). While an LMIA is usually required for hiring foreign workers, several important exemptions exist under this program.

What is an LMIA exemption?

An LMIA exemption means that, in certain cases, Canadian employers do not need to obtain an LMIA to hire a temporary foreign worker. These exemptions, managed through the IMP, are mainly based on:

• Significant economic or cultural benefits to Canada.

• Reciprocal benefits for both Canadians and foreign workers.

If you are unsure whether your case qualifies, consider completing our Assessment Form to get personalized advice.

How to hire under the International Mobility Program

Hiring a foreign worker through the IMP involves three main steps:

1. Verify if the position or worker is eligible for an LMIA exemption.

2. Pay the $230 CAD employer compliance fee.

3. Submit the job offer through the Employer Portal for the IMP.

Once completed, the worker can apply for a Work Visa. In certain situations, such as when applying from outside Canada for a National Occupational Classification (NOC) skill type 0 or A job, processing can be expedited.

LMIA exemptions under international agreements

A large portion of LMIA exemptions comes from international agreements between Canada and other countries, which allow some workers to move between countries without needing an LMIA. These include:

• Canada–United States–Mexico Agreement (formerly NAFTA).

• Free trade agreements with Chile, Peru, Colombia, and South Korea.

• Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) between Canada and the EU.

• General Agreement on Trade in Services (GATS).

If you are coming to Canada under such agreements, your process may be faster than a standard Canadian Work Visa application.

Exemptions for Canadian interest

Some exemptions are granted because hiring a foreign worker provides substantial benefits to Canada — economically, socially, culturally, or diplomatically.

• Cultural or social benefits: Workers who bring significant cultural or social contributions, evaluated by immigration officers and supported by expert recommendations, may be exempt from LMIA.

• Intra-company transferees: Companies can transfer specialized foreign employees to Canadian branches without LMIA, helping strengthen Canadian operations.

If you’re transferring an employee internally, review your options alongside other Business Immigration pathways.

Other LMIA exemptions

In addition to trade agreements and Canadian interest cases, other exemptions include:

• Humanitarian reasons: Certain humanitarian situations may qualify for LMIA exemption.

• Permanent residency candidates: Some Permanent Resident applicants can receive work permits without an LMIA while their application is processed.

Why consult an immigration professional?

While the IMP makes it easier to hire without an LMIA, eligibility rules are complex. An experienced immigration consultant can:

• Confirm if your job offer qualifies for exemption.

• Ensure proper documentation is filed with the Employer Portal.

• Guide you through related processes like Visitor Visas or Spousal Sponsorship if your employee’s family will join them.

If you want to hire through the IMP or determine your LMIA exemption eligibility, contact us today.