International Mobility Program
The International Mobility Program (IMP) in Canada allows employers to hire temporary foreign workers without requiring a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) in specific cases. Administered by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the IMP facilitates the entry of foreign workers for purposes aligned with international agreements, reciprocal employment arrangements, and Canada's economic and social goals.
Key Points about the International Mobility Program:
LMIA Exemptions: The IMP provides exemptions from LMIA requirements for certain categories of foreign workers, including those covered by international agreements like NAFTA (now CUSMA) and the Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA).
Categories: Encompasses a variety of foreign workers, including intra-company transferees (C12 or ICT), professionals, researchers, and others contributing to Canada's economy and society under categories such as C11 and C10.
Work Permits: Foreign workers under the IMP still require a work permit to legally work in Canada, but the process is often streamlined compared to LMIA-based work permits.
Compliance: Employers must comply with Canadian immigration laws, ensuring foreign workers meet IMP category requirements and receive wages and conditions comparable to Canadian workers.
Duration: Work permits issued under the IMP are typically valid for the duration of employment in Canada, with potential extensions based on IRCC guidelines.
The IMP facilitates the entry of temporary foreign workers crucial to Canada's economic growth, while safeguarding Canadian labor market interests.