Who Can Apply for the C20?
This work permit is commonly used by:
Researchers and Academics
Universities often use reciprocal agreements to host foreign professors or researchers on short-term assignments.
Athletes and Performers
Professional sports teams, theater companies, and other cultural organizations often use the C20 to bring in foreign talent.
Business Professionals
Individuals in highly specialized roles in certain industries can use this permit to work in Canada.
In order to have a successful application, immigration officers will want to see that your work is tied to the agreement and that your role benefits both sides of the exchange. This is why you should consider this program as more of a partnership than a job transfer.
Employers must provide documentation demonstrating that Canadians have been offered or are currently working in comparable roles in the foreign office. This can include detailed records of employment numbers, job descriptions, and proof of equivalent positions. Additionally, the application should highlight the foreign worker’s qualifications and explain how their employment in Canada aligns with the organization’s goals and the broader reciprocity agreement.
For instance, if you’re a university lecturer coming to Canada under a reciprocal teaching exchange, you’ll need to provide proof of the partnership between your institution and its Canadian counterpart. Similarly, an athlete might need to show a contract with a Canadian team that demonstrates alignment with the rules of the exchange.
C11 Significant
Benefit
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Intracompany Transferee (ICT)
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CUSMA and Free Trade Agreement (FTA) Work Permits
C20 Reciprocal
Agreement
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Francophone
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International Experience Canada (IEC)
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C20 Reciprocal Agreement
The C20 Reciprocal Agreement Work Permit is another pathway for professionals seeking to bring their talents to Canada without going through the tedious LMIA process. This pathway can be thought of as a fair trade agreement between professionals. If your home country allows Canadians to work there under similar agreements, Canada returns the favour.
The program is designed to create mobility for professionals who work within a larger international framework. This looks like, for example, a university researcher collaborating on an international project or a professional athlete joining a Canadian team.
