International Mobility Program (IMP) Guide

What Is the International Mobility Program?

The International Mobility Program (IMP) is one of two main pathways for hiring temporary foreign workers in Canada. Unlike the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), which requires employers to obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), the IMP allows employers to hire foreign workers without an LMIA. The program is administered by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

The IMP exists because the Canadian government recognizes that certain categories of foreign workers bring significant economic, social, or cultural benefits to Canada, or because Canada has international obligations (such as trade agreements) that require worker mobility.

How Is the IMP Different from the TFWP?

Understanding the difference between these two programs is essential for employers and workers alike:

• Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP): Requires an LMIA. The employer must prove that no Canadian is available for the job. Managed by ESDC.
• International Mobility Program (IMP): Does not require an LMIA. The focus is on broader benefits to Canada or compliance with international agreements. Managed by IRCC.

Both programs result in the issuance of work permits, but the application process, fees, and employer obligations differ. If you are unsure which program applies to your situation, consult the IRCC hiring foreign workers page.

Categories Under the IMP

The IMP encompasses a wide range of LMIA exemption categories. Here are the most common ones:

International Agreements (R204)

This category covers work permits issued under international trade agreements, including:

• CUSMA (formerly NAFTA): For professionals, traders, investors, and intra-company transferees from the United States and Mexico
• CETA: For certain workers from European Union member states
• Other bilateral and multilateral agreements: Including agreements with Chile, Colombia, Peru, South Korea, and others
• International Experience Canada (IEC): Youth mobility agreements with over 30 countries, offering working holiday visas, young professional permits, and international co-op placements

Canadian Interests (R205)

This broad category covers exemptions that serve Canadian interests, divided into several sub-categories:

• Significant benefit (C10): Workers whose employment creates significant social, cultural, or economic benefits for Canadians
• Intra-company transferees (C12): Executives, senior managers, and specialized knowledge workers transferred within a multinational company
• Entrepreneurs and self-employed (C11): Individuals who will create significant economic activity in Canada
• Emergency and urgent need: Workers needed to address emergencies that threaten life, property, or the environment

Reciprocal Employment (R205, C20)

This applies when Canadians benefit from similar employment opportunities in other countries. Examples include academic exchanges, visiting researchers, and participants in reciprocal youth programs.

Charitable and Religious Work (R205(d))

Workers performing charitable or religious duties in Canada may be exempt from the LMIA requirement under this category.

Open Work Permits

Some categories under the IMP issue open work permits, which are not tied to a specific employer. Examples include:

• Spousal open work permits for partners of skilled workers or international students
• Post-graduation work permits (PGWP) for international students who have completed a program at a designated learning institution
• Bridging open work permits (BOWP) for those transitioning from temporary to permanent residence

Employer Obligations Under the IMP

Even though an LMIA is not required, employers who hire workers through the IMP have specific obligations.

See also: How to Apply for Canadian Permanent Residence

Offer of Employment and Compliance Fee

Most employers must submit an offer of employment through the IRCC Employer Portal and pay a $230 CAD compliance fee per worker. Some categories (such as IEC) are exempt from this fee.

Compliance Inspections

IRCC conducts inspections to ensure employers are meeting the conditions of the work permit, including wages, working conditions, and the occupation itself. Employers must maintain accurate records and cooperate with inspectors. Non-compliance can result in:

• Monetary penalties of up to $100,000 per violation
• A ban from the IMP and TFWP for up to 10 years
• Public listing of the employer's name on the IRCC non-compliant employers list

How Workers Apply for an IMP Work Permit

The process for workers depends on their specific category and location:

Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility

Identify the specific LMIA exemption category that applies to your situation. Each category has its own eligibility criteria. Consult the IRCC temporary work permit page for details.

Step 2: Gather Documents

Common documents include:

• Valid passport
• Offer of employment number (provided by the employer)
• Proof of qualifications (education, professional certifications)
• Work experience letters
• Evidence supporting your exemption category (trade agreement eligibility, company relationship documents, etc.)
• Biometrics (if required)
• Medical examination (if required)

Step 3: Submit Your Application

You can apply online through the IRCC website, at a port of entry (for eligible categories and visa-exempt nationals), or at a visa application centre abroad. The work permit application fee is $155 CAD, plus $85 CAD for biometrics if applicable.

Step 4: Wait for Processing

Processing times vary by category and location. Check the IRCC processing times page for current estimates. Port-of-entry applications are usually processed the same day.

Common Pitfalls and Tips

To ensure a smooth application under the IMP, keep these tips in mind:

• Choose the correct exemption code: Using the wrong code is one of the most common reasons for refusal. Research your category carefully or consult an immigration professional.
• Employers must act first: In most cases, the employer must submit the offer of employment and pay the compliance fee before the worker can apply.
• Keep copies of everything: Both employers and workers should maintain copies of all documents submitted and received.
• Apply for extensions early: If your work permit is expiring and you want to continue working, apply for an extension at least 30 days before your current permit expires. You can continue working under implied status while your extension is being processed.
• Understand your work permit conditions: Your permit may restrict you to a specific employer, occupation, or location. Violating these conditions can jeopardize your immigration status.

Transitioning to Permanent Residence

Many workers who come to Canada under the IMP eventually apply for permanent residence. Common pathways include:

• Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker, Canadian Experience Class, or Federal Skilled Trades)
• Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
• Atlantic Immigration Program
• Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot

Canadian work experience gained under an IMP work permit generally counts toward eligibility for these programs. See our LMIA-exempt work permits guide for more information on specific categories and pathways.

See also: Canada Student Visa Guide

See also: Canadian Experience Class (CEC) Guide

See also: Express Entry CRS Score Guide

Where to Get Help

For official information, visit the IRCC International Mobility Program page. For personalized advice, consult a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) or an immigration lawyer. Verify your consultant's registration through the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants.

The International Mobility Program is a cornerstone of Canada's approach to attracting global talent. Whether you are an employer looking to bring in skilled workers or a professional exploring opportunities in Canada, understanding the IMP is the first step toward making it happen.

Practical Tips for IMP Applicants

Navigating the IMP successfully requires careful preparation. Before applying, research the specific exemption code that applies to your situation and gather all required evidence. Officers evaluate each application against the specific criteria for the claimed exemption, so a generic application will not be sufficient. Tailor your supporting documents to demonstrate exactly how you meet the requirements of your category.

If you are an employer hiring through the IMP for the first time, familiarize yourself with the Employer Portal well in advance. Creating your portal account, verifying your business information, and learning how to submit offers of employment all take time. Many employers find it helpful to complete a test submission (without paying the fee) to understand the information required. Keep detailed records of every submission and fee payment, as you may need these for future compliance inspections or work permit renewals.

For workers, keep your immigration documents organized and accessible at all times. Store digital copies in a secure cloud service so you can access them from anywhere. This is especially important if you travel frequently or if you need to apply for an extension on short notice.