International Mobility Program (IMP)

VisaVio is proud to assist entrepreneurs and skilled workers through the International Mobility Program (IMP), a streamlined pathway to work in Canada without the need for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). The IMP allows foreign nationals to obtain Canadian work permits in specific circumstances where hiring them would bring significant social, cultural, or economic benefits to Canada. Through the IMP, individuals and businesses can bypass the lengthy LMIA process, making it easier to bring talent into Canada and contribute to the country's economy.

Eligibility for the International Mobility Program

To qualify for the International Mobility Program, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria depending on the category they fall under. Common IMP categories include:

• Intra-Company Transferees: Employees of multinational companies who are being transferred to a Canadian branch or affiliate can apply for an LMIA-exempt work permit. The transfer must involve executives, managers, or individuals with specialized knowledge who will contribute to the Canadian operations.
• NAFTA or CETA Professionals: Under international trade agreements like NAFTA (now USMCA) and CETA, certain professionals can obtain LMIA-exempt work permits. These individuals must possess qualifications or experience in specific professions covered by the agreements.
• Significant Benefit Work Permits: Foreign nationals whose work will provide significant cultural, economic, or social benefits to Canada may be eligible for an LMIA exemption. This category often applies to entrepreneurs, investors, or self-employed individuals.
• Reciprocal Employment Agreements: Foreign workers who can demonstrate a reciprocal employment opportunity where Canadians are similarly employed in other countries can qualify for an LMIA exemption under this category.
• International Experience Canada (IEC): Young adults from participating countries may qualify for an IEC work permit, which allows them to live and work in Canada temporarily. This program supports cultural exchange and international work experience.

VisaVio can help you assess your eligibility for the IMP and provide tailored solutions based on your specific circumstances.

Process for the International Mobility Program

While the International Mobility Program allows foreign nationals to bypass the LMIA process, there are still several important steps to follow when applying for an IMP work permit:

• Determine Eligibility: The first step is to assess whether the applicant qualifies for an LMIA exemption under the IMP. VisaVio will help you evaluate which category of the IMP you or your employee may fall under, ensuring you meet the eligibility requirements.
• Submit the Offer of Employment: Employers must submit an offer of employment to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) via the Employer Portal. VisaVio can assist in preparing and submitting the offer to meet all legal obligations.
• Pay the Employer Compliance Fee: Employers must pay a compliance fee when submitting the offer of employment. This step is crucial for ensuring that your application proceeds without delays.
• Apply for the Work Permit: Once the offer is submitted, the foreign national can apply for a work permit. VisaVio provides full support with preparing the necessary documents, including proof of the LMIA exemption, supporting business documents, and personal details required for the application.
• Receive the Work Permit: If the application is approved, the foreign worker will receive their work permit and can legally start working in Canada.

The International Mobility Program offers a faster route to securing a Canadian work permit, and VisaVio ensures that every step of the process is handled professionally and efficiently, minimizing the complexity for both employers and workers.

Benefits of the International Mobility Program

There are numerous advantages to applying through the International Mobility Program, including:

• No LMIA Required: One of the most significant benefits of the IMP is that it allows foreign workers to bypass the lengthy LMIA process, saving time and resources.
• Faster Processing Times: Because the IMP does not require an LMIA, work permits can often be processed more quickly, allowing businesses to bring in talent sooner.
• Wide Range of Eligibility: The IMP covers a broad range of work permit categories, making it accessible to many types of workers, from executives and skilled professionals to cultural exchange participants.
• Path to Permanent Residence: In some cases, workers who enter Canada through the IMP may be able to transition to permanent residence, particularly if they gain valuable work experience in Canada.
• Flexibility in Employment: The IMP allows for greater flexibility in employment options, such as the ability to transfer employees within multinational companies or hire foreign workers under international trade agreements.

VisaVio will help you maximize the benefits of the International Mobility Program, ensuring that your work permit application is smooth and successful.

Types of Work Permits under the International Mobility Program

The IMP offers various types of work permits that are exempt from the LMIA requirement. Some of the key work permits include:

• Intra-Company Transfer Work Permits: This permit is available to key employees of multinational companies who are being transferred to a Canadian office. These workers must be executives, managers, or have specialized knowledge of the company’s operations.
• International Agreements Work Permits: Professionals covered under international agreements like NAFTA (USMCA) or CETA can apply for a work permit without an LMIA. This category is ideal for business people or professionals working across borders.
• Significant Benefit Work Permits: Entrepreneurs, investors, or self-employed individuals who can demonstrate that their work will provide significant benefits to Canada may qualify for this permit. VisaVio helps build a strong case for why your work benefits Canada’s cultural, economic, or social landscape.
• Reciprocal Employment Work Permits: Under this permit, foreign workers who demonstrate a reciprocal employment arrangement with their home country can work in Canada. For instance, if Canadians are similarly employed abroad, the foreign national may be eligible for an LMIA-exempt work permit.
• IEC Work Permits: International Experience Canada (IEC) work permits allow young adults from participating countries to live and work in Canada. This is an ideal option for individuals seeking cultural exchange or international work experience.

VisaVio provides comprehensive support in selecting and applying for the right work permit under the International Mobility Program, ensuring that your application meets the highest standards for approval.

How VisaVio Can Help You with the International Mobility Program

VisaVio offers expert guidance through every stage of the International Mobility Program. From determining eligibility to preparing and submitting the application, we ensure that your work permit process is smooth and efficient. Our team will assist with:

• Evaluating your qualifications and selecting the appropriate IMP category
• Preparing and submitting the employer compliance documentation
• Assisting with the work permit application process
• Providing ongoing support for any post-application requirements
• Helping with any transition to permanent residency, if applicable

VisaVio is committed to making your journey to work in Canada under the International Mobility Program as seamless as possible. With our expertise, you can be confident in securing your Canadian work permit and building a successful future in Canada.