International Mobility Program

Overview

International Mobility Program

The International Mobility Program covers work permits that do not require an LMIA because they advance broader Canadian interests, reciprocal arrangements, trade commitments or other statutory and policy objectives.

IMP is an umbrella, not one permit

It includes open permits such as PGWPs and Working Holiday, and employer-specific permits under free trade agreements, Francophone Mobility, intra-company transfer and other exemptions.

Eligibility must be assessed under the exact category. General IMP language does not prove a work-permit application.

Employer-specific IMP jobs use the Portal

Unless exempt from the compliance regime, the employer submits the offer and pays the fee before the worker applies. The offer number links the applications.

An incorrect exemption code, missing fee or inconsistent job details can lead to refusal.

Open permit employers do not submit offers

When the worker holds a valid open permit, an ordinary employer does not need an LMIA, Portal offer or compliance fee. The employer should inspect the permit’s dates and restrictions before work begins.

A restricted open permit may limit province, occupation or public-health-sensitive work.

Inspections apply to participating employers

IMP employers can be required to prove the business remained active and provided substantially the same job, wages and conditions. Records are kept for the regulatory period.

Penalties can include warnings, monetary amounts, bans and publication.