The International Mobility Program (IMP) allows employers in Canada to hire foreign workers on a temporary work permit without needing to obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). This may present a number of advantages to employers and workers alike, who may enjoy the simpler, quicker hiring process.

Positions exempt from requiring a LMIA are those which:

• Provide broad economic, cultural or other competitive advantages for Canada, and
• Provide reciprocal benefits for Canadian citizens and permanent residents.

Workers who are eligible for the International Mobility Program (IMP) include:

• Those entering Canada as part of trade treaties, such as the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) or the Comprehensive Economic Trade Agreement (CETA).
• Those entering Canada on an open work permit.
• Those entering Canada as intra-company transferees.

Hiring a foreign worker through the IMP normally involves the payment of a $230 employer compliance fee. Where an employer is hiring an open work permit holder, the fee is not required. Other fee-exempt positions include those covered by a non-trade agreement, certain research positions and charitable or religious work.

Job offers via the IMP must be made through the IRCC’s Employer Portal. Employers must register a profile to use the Employer Portal.

Extensive details of the job being offered must be entered into the portal, including a list of duties, the minimum education requirement, experience required, plus wages and benefits.