USMCA / International Agreements
Work permits under USMCA and other international agreements allow eligible foreign business people to work in Canada without an LMIA when the employment falls under a covered trade agreement. Canada participates in multiple free trade agreements, including the Canada–United States–Mexico Agreement (USMCA), that provide LMIA exemptions for categories such as professionals, traders, and investors.
Under USMCA, U.S. and Mexican citizens may be eligible to work in designated business categories including professionals, traders, investors, and intra-company transferees. Similar provisions exist under other agreements for nationals of partner states. Exemptions are managed through the International Mobility Program (IMP); employers or applicants must show that the work fits the agreement and supports Canada’s economic interests.
Cohen Visa advises employers and foreign nationals on eligibility under USMCA and other agreement provisions, documentation, and strategy for efficient work permits and temporary residence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about USMCA and international agreement work permits
Eligibility depends on citizenship (U.S. or Mexican, as applicable), the intended role, and whether the activity fits a USMCA business visitor rule or a work-permit category such as professional, trader, investor, or intra-company transferee. Credentials, job duties, and corporate structure must align with the agreement and current program guidance.
Many categories under USMCA and comparable international agreements are LMIA-exempt when requirements are met. Employers or applicants must still satisfy International Mobility Program rules, including documentation of eligibility under the relevant agreement.
Canada is party to several trade and cooperation instruments that may support LMIA-exempt work permits for nationals of partner states when the role and facts fit a covered stream. The correct agreement and category depends on citizenship, occupation, and whether the arrangement is reciprocal or treaty-based.
Business visitors engage in international business activities permitted as visitors without entering the Canadian labour market in a way that requires a work permit. When activities cross into work that requires authorization, a work permit under the appropriate USMCA or agreement category may be required. Cohen Visa helps assess the correct classification.
Requirements vary by stream. Employers may need to submit an offer of employment through the Employer Portal, meet wage and compliance obligations, and provide support letters or corporate evidence. Cohen Visa coordinates employer and applicant documentation with IRCC expectations.
We advise on category selection under USMCA and other agreements, eligibility for professionals, traders, investors, and transferees, documentation, and strategy for temporary residence, extensions, and longer-term planning where relevant.