LMIA-Exempt Work Permit (International Mobility Program)
Foreign workers whose job is LMIA-exempt under trade deals or Canadian-interest categories.
The LMIA-Exempt Work Permit (International Mobility Program) is a Canadian work & skilled visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~CA$155 (employer pays a CA$230 compliance fee)) and processing time (~2 months (varies by category)), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the LMIA-Exempt Work Permit (International Mobility Program) is for
Foreign workers whose job is LMIA-exempt under trade deals or Canadian-interest categories.
Skilled IMP work builds CEC experience and CRS points toward Express Entry PR.
LMIA-Exempt Work Permit (International Mobility Program) - eligibility criteria
- Job falls under an LMIA-exempt category (e.g. CUSMA, CETA, significant benefit)
- Employer submits an offer of employment and pays the compliance fee
- Meet the requirements of the job/category
- Prove intent to leave at end of stay
- Be admissible to Canada
LMIA-Exempt Work Permit (International Mobility Program) cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the LMIA-Exempt Work Permit (International Mobility Program) (Canada) is ~CA$155 (employer pays a CA$230 compliance fee), with an indicative processing time of ~2 months (varies by category). Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at IRCC (canada.ca).
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Online; from outside or inside Canada (some at a port of entry) |
| Length of stay | Varies by category (often 1-3 years) |
| Work rights | Employer-specific or open, depending on the category |
| Study rights | No (study permit needed for long courses) |
| Government fee | ~CA$155 (employer pays a CA$230 compliance fee) |
| Processing time | ~2 months (varies by category) |
| Route to PR | Skilled IMP work builds CEC experience and CRS points toward Express Entry PR. |
Pathway & next steps
Skilled IMP work builds CEC experience and CRS points toward Express Entry PR.
Many applicants also compare LMIA Work Permit · Employer-Specific Work Permit (LMIA / TFWP), ICT · Intra-Company Transfer Work Permit, IEC · International Experience Canada (Working Holiday). Run a free VisaChief check to see which Canadian route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common LMIA-Exempt Work Permit (International Mobility Program) pitfalls we fix
LMIA-Exempt Work Permit (International Mobility Program) - frequently asked questions
How much does the LMIA-Exempt Work Permit (International Mobility Program) cost?
The LMIA-Exempt Work Permit (International Mobility Program) government fee is ~CA$155 (employer pays a CA$230 compliance fee). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at IRCC (canada.ca) before applying.
How long does the LMIA-Exempt Work Permit (International Mobility Program) take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~2 months (varies by category). Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the LMIA-Exempt Work Permit (International Mobility Program) lead to permanent residence?
Skilled IMP work builds CEC experience and CRS points toward Express Entry PR.
Can I work on the LMIA-Exempt Work Permit (International Mobility Program)?
Work rights: Employer-specific or open, depending on the category.
Who can apply for the LMIA-Exempt Work Permit (International Mobility Program)?
Foreign workers whose job is LMIA-exempt under trade deals or Canadian-interest categories.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Canada government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- IRCC (canada.ca) - official Canada immigration authority