CUSMA and Free Trade Agreement (FTA) Work Permits

Canada’s international trade agreements, including the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) and various other FTAs, make it easier for skilled professionals, investors, traders, and intra-company transferees to work in Canada.

These agreements were designed to encourage cross-border business collaboration and create opportunities for highly skilled individuals to contribute to Canada’s economy without the burden of obtaining a LMIA.

Under CUSMA and similar agreements, eligible applicants can bypass some of the typical hurdles associated with Canadian work permits. These pathways help open doors for professionals from partner countries to seamlessly transition into the Canadian workforce.

CUSMA and Free Trade Agreement (FTA) Work Permits

What Are the Types of Trade Agreements?

Who Can Apply?

How the Process Works

What Are the Types of Trade Agreements?

Eligibility under these agreements depends on your citizenship, profession, and the specific trade agreement governing your application. CUSMA enables professionals, investors, and traders from the U.S. and Mexico to work in Canada, while CPTPP provides similar pathways for citizens of countries such as Australia, Japan, South Korea, and Vietnam.

Who Can Apply?

There are three types of applicants that can apply for an FTA work permit:

Professionals

CUSMA allows work permits for 63 recognized professions, such as accountants, engineers, scientists, and IT specialists. Applicants must demonstrate that their Canadian job offer aligns with these listed occupations and that they meet the professional qualification standards for their field.

Traders and Investors

Traders must show significant trade in goods or services between Canada and their home country, while investors must demonstrate substantial investments in Canadian businesses. A detailed business plan or proof of trade relationships is required.

Intra-Company Transferees (ICT)

Some FTAs, like CUSMA and CETA, include specific ICTs that are more streamlined than the general ICT. This category is designed for employees transferring within a multinational company within the FTA to a Canadian branch. Applicants typically are required to have worked at the company for at least one year in a senior or specialized role.

How the Process Works

Applying for a work permit under CUSMA or an FTA involves navigating the International Mobility Program (IMP). This means the process is more streamlined than traditional LMIA-based permits, but it still requires meticulous preparation. Applicants must provide proof of citizenship, evidence of professional credentials, and detailed supporting documents like job offers or business plans.

One significant advantage of CUSMA is that applications can be processed directly at Canadian ports of entry, such as airports or border crossings, providing eligible U.S. citizens with a fast-tracked option. For other agreements, applications are typically submitted through IRCC’s online portal, with processing times varying based on the complexity of the case and the accuracy of the documentation.

Access skilled professionals from the U.S. and beyond with confidence.

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