Why No LMIA Is Needed
The IMP covers work arrangements where Canada has determined the employment of a foreign national brings broader benefits — through trade agreements, intra-company transfers, reciprocal youth mobility, or other public policy objectives. Because no labour market test is required, IMP permits are typically faster and less costly than TFWP permits.
Major IMP Categories
International Agreements
Workers covered by CUSMA/USMCA (US/Mexico), CETA (EU), CPTPP, and other free trade agreements. Covers professionals, traders, investors, and intra-company transferees under those agreements.
Intra-Company Transferees
Executives, senior managers, and workers with specialised knowledge transferred from a foreign parent, subsidiary, or affiliate to a Canadian company. Permit valid up to 3 years (executives/managers) or 1 year (specialised knowledge).
Open Work Permits
Certain groups receive open work permits under IMP: spouses of skilled workers/students, international graduates (PGWP), refugee claimants, destitute students, and participants in specific pilot programs.
Significant Benefit
Workers whose employment brings significant social, cultural, or economic benefit to Canada. Includes artists, athletes, researchers, religious workers, and journalists on assignment.
Reciprocal Employment
Youth exchange programs (International Experience Canada) allowing young people from partner countries to live and work in Canada on open working holiday or young professional permits.
Charitable & Religious
Workers employed by a charitable or religious organisation whose activities support the Canadian non-profit sector, provided they are not filling a role that would otherwise go to a Canadian.
CUSMA / USMCA Professional Categories
Under the Canada–United States–Mexico Agreement, citizens of the US and Mexico who qualify as professionals in one of 63 designated occupations (including engineers, accountants, lawyers, scientists, and computer systems analysts) may obtain a work permit at the port of entry with just a letter of offer, credential evidence, and citizenship proof.
Intra-Company Transfer Requirements
| Category | Min. Experience | Permit Duration | Max Stay |
|---|---|---|---|
| Executives / Senior Managers | 1 year in last 3 years | Up to 3 years | 7 years |
| Specialised Knowledge | 1 year in last 3 years | Up to 1 year (renewable) | 5 years |
| New Office (Exec/Manager) | 1 year in last 3 years | Up to 1 year | N/A (renewable) |
International Experience Canada (IEC)
IEC is an open working holiday program for youth aged 18–35 from 36 partner countries. Three categories apply:
- Working Holiday: Open work permit, any employer, any occupation. Valid 1–2 years.
- Young Professionals: Closed work permit with a Canadian employer who offers a job relevant to your career development.
- International Co-op (Internship): For post-secondary students in a program that requires a work placement component.
Frequently Asked Questions
The TFWP requires a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) showing no Canadian was available. The IMP is LMIA-exempt because Canada has determined broader benefit from the employment. IMP permits are generally faster but require the employer to submit a job offer through IRCC's Employer Portal and pay a $230 compliance fee.
Yes. Several IMP categories issue open work permits — most notably the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), spousal/partner open work permits, and International Experience Canada working holidays. Open permits let you work for any employer in Canada.
Yes. Canadian work experience gained on any valid work permit — LMIA-based or IMP — counts toward Express Entry's Canadian Experience Class (CEC) requirements, as long as the work is in TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 and meets the hour thresholds.
Check Your IMP Eligibility
Many workers qualify for LMIA-exempt permits without knowing it. Book a free consultation to find out which IMP category fits your situation.
💬 WhatsApp Free ConsultationThis page is for general information only and does not constitute immigration legal advice. Program rules change frequently — always verify details at canada.ca. For personalised guidance, consult a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC). Mirus Immigration · David Johl · RCIC R519520.