An important update from IRCC: citizens of select countries can now access LMIA‑exempt work permits through Canada’s Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), including CETA, CPTPP, CCFTA and CCoFTA. These exemptions span several professional categories, such as intra‑company transferees, technologists, investors, and service providers.
🌐 CPTPP: Four Main Categories
- Professionals: Must hold a four‑year degree and two years’ experience; work permit valid for up to one year.
- Intra‑company Transferees: Includes managers, executives and specialists with one year of service—permit up to three years.
- Investors: Executives, supervisors or specialized employees investing in Canadian businesses—permit up to one year.
- Technicians: Candidates with a two‑year diploma and relevant work experience; permit valid for one year.
🇨🇱 Canada–Chile Free Trade Agreement (CCFTA)
- Professionals: Must meet degree and licensing criteria; up to 3 years.
- Intra‑company Transferees: Managerial or specialist roles; managers up to 5 years, specialists up to 3 years.
- Investors and Traders: Individuals engaging in substantial business investment or trade; permit up to one year.
🇨🇴 Canada–Colombia Free Trade Agreement (CCoFTA)
- Professionals: NOC TEER 0/1 occupations with a four‑year degree; permit up to one year.
- Intra‑company Transferees: Managers, executives, specialists, or trainees with six months of work—up to three years.
- Technicians: Must meet NOC TEER 2/3 and diploma requirements—valid for one year.
- Traders and Investors: Significant trade or investment‑driven roles—permit up to one year.
📋 How to Apply
- Your employer must submit the job offer through the IRCC Employer Portal and pay the compliance fee.
- You then apply, ensuring you meet the specific category’s eligibility—degree, experience, licensing, and agreement to work only in Canada.
- Processing time usually ranges from 3 weeks to 5 months.
💡 Why It Matters
- Routes for skilled trade and business professionals without LMIA delays.
- Permits vary from one to five years depending on role and agreement category.
- Supports Canada’s economic goals by boosting trade and investment ties.
🛠 AARA Immigration Services Can Help
- Screen your eligibility under specific FTA categories
- Support employer submission through IRCC compliance portal
- Prepare and optimize your work permit application
- Advise on related immigration pathways, visa durations, and transition to PR
Want to fast‑track your Canadian work journey without LMIA delays? Book a free FTA work permit consultation with AARA today.