LMIA-exempt work permits.
Many valuable work permits do not require an LMIA. The International Mobility Program covers intra-company transferees, treaty professionals, spousal open work permits and specific public policy categories. Choosing the right category is often more consequential than any single document.
Who this is for
Foreign workers and their Canadian employers considering LMIA-exempt work permit categories under the International Mobility Program.
Decision factors
- Fit with the specific exemption category
- Employer type, size and Canadian presence
- The worker's specific role, seniority and qualifications
- Whether an offer of employment must be submitted through the Employer Portal
Evidence commonly needed
- Employer's Canadian corporate documentation
- Worker's employment record with the sending entity, where applicable
- Specific qualification, credential and licensing evidence
- Signed offer of employment and Employer Portal submission
Process
- Category assessment and eligibility
- Employer Portal offer of employment where required
- Preparation of the worker's permit application
- Response to further document requests and, where required, port-of-entry planning
Risks and honest limits
Category rules are technical. Intra-company transferees, in particular, are examined closely. Public policy streams open and close and cannot be assumed to be available.
How an RCIC helps
We match the case to the correct category, prepare the employer and worker files together, and stay current on IMP category changes.
Official sources
Reviewed by Karan Pratap Singh, RCIC. Last reviewed: July 18, 2026.
A few things clients often ask.
What is the International Mobility Program?
It is the framework for work permits that do not require an LMIA, including reciprocal categories, significant benefit categories, and international agreements.
Do we still submit an offer through the Employer Portal?
For most IMP categories, yes. The employer submits an offer of employment and pays the employer compliance fee before the worker applies.
Can spouses of workers or students get open work permits?
In many cases yes, but eligibility rules have narrowed. We confirm eligibility against current rules.
Related services and next steps.
LMIA for employers
Where the position requires an LMIA.
Treaty work permits
CUSMA, CETA and other international agreement categories.
Employer compliance
Ongoing obligations after a work permit is approved.
Send a short enquiry
For a general question that is not urgent. Not legal advice; please avoid sensitive documents.
Information current as of July 2026. Program rules and intake can change without notice.
This page provides general information about Canadian immigration and does not constitute legal advice. For advice specific to your matter, please book a consultation with an RCIC.
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