Citizens of 40+ Countries Can Get Canada LMIA exempt work permit

Good news for skilled workers! Citizens of over 40 countries can apply for Canada LMIA exempt work permit without needing a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)—a major advantage that saves time, money, and paperwork.

This option is available under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) that Canada has signed with various countries. These agreements offer LMIA-exempt work permits for eligible applicants such as professionals, intra-company transferees, investors, traders, and technicians.

Who Qualifies?

If you’re from a country listed below and meet the job and education criteria, you may qualify under one of Canada’s FTAs:

Countries with FTA Access:

• CETA (EU countries) – Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, etc.

• CUSMA – United States, Mexico

• CPTPP – Australia, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore, Vietnam, etc.

• Other FTAs – Chile (CCFTA), Colombia (CCoFTA)

Each agreement offers different permit categories, but most commonly includes:

• Professionals (specific degrees and job offers needed)

• Intra-company transferees (for employees of multinationals)

• Investors & Traders (if investing or trading with Canada)

• Technicians (for skilled technical jobs, country-specific)

Examples of Major Agreements:

CUSMA (US, Mexico):

• Work permits for professionals, executives, and investors.

• Valid for up to 3–5 years.

CETA (EU countries):

• This is for professionals, technologists, investors, and graduate trainees.

• Permits are valid from 12 to 24 months.

CPTPP (Pacific region):

• Available to workers from Japan, Australia, Malaysia, etc.

• Professionals and technicians must meet job-specific qualifications.

CCFTA (Chile) & 🇨🇴 CCoFTA (Colombia):

• LMIA-exempt permits for qualified professionals, transferees, technicians, and investors.

• Most valid for 1–3 years.

How to Apply

For Employers (in Canada):

1. Submit a job offer through the Employer Portal

2. Pay the $230 compliance fee

3. Share the offer of employment number with the applicant

For Applicants:

1. Confirm your eligibility (check country & category)

2. Read the government instructions

3. Prepare documents (degrees, licenses, experience proof)

4. Pay $155 for the permit + $85 biometrics fee (if required)

5. Apply online through IRCC

Final Notes

• Having an eligible nationality does not guarantee approval.

• You must also be admissible to Canada (good health, no criminal record, etc.).

• Depending on your country, processing time ranges from 3 weeks to 5 months.

Tip: If you’re unsure about your eligibility, it’s best to consult an immigration professional.

Free Consultations Available

Asif Consulting offers free consultations for those applying under an FTA.