Treaty work permits.
Canada's trade agreements create specific work permit categories for professionals, intra-company transferees, and traders and investors. These are LMIA-exempt but each has precise rules.
Who this is for
Nationals of trade-agreement countries seeking work in Canada, and the Canadian employers hiring them.
Decision factors
- The applicable agreement (CUSMA, CETA, CPTPP and others)
- The specific category and its qualifying occupation or role
- Credentials, licensing and evidence of the required qualifications
- The employer's Canadian presence
Evidence commonly needed
- Passport and citizenship of the qualifying country
- Degree and credential documentation aligned with the category
- Offer of employment through the Employer Portal where required
- Corporate documents for intra-company transfer categories
Process
- Category and eligibility assessment
- Employer Portal submission where required
- Preparation of the work permit application
- Port-of-entry or online submission planning as appropriate
Risks and honest limits
Category lists are precise. An occupation that sounds similar to a listed profession may not qualify. Intra-company categories require documented enterprise structure.
How an RCIC helps
We work closely with employers and workers to match roles to categories correctly, and to avoid categorization mistakes that lead to refusals.
Official sources
Reviewed by Karan Pratap Singh, RCIC. Last reviewed: July 18, 2026.
A few things clients often ask.
Which countries qualify?
It depends on the agreement. CUSMA covers US and Mexican nationals; CETA covers EU nationals; CPTPP covers signatories of that agreement. Others exist.
Do I need a job offer?
Yes for most categories. Independent categories exist for a limited number of profiles.
Can I apply at the port of entry?
Sometimes. Nationals of visa-exempt countries can often apply at the port of entry; others must apply online in advance.
Related services and next steps.
LMIA-exempt work permits
The wider International Mobility Program framework.
Work permits overview
How LMIA and LMIA-exempt permits fit together.
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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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