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4. International Mobility Program (IMP) Work Permit
International Mobility Program (IMP) in Canada allows employers to hire temporary foreign workers without the need for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). The LMIA is a document that employers usually need to obtain to demonstrate that there is a need for a foreign worker to fill a job and that no Canadian worker is available
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4.1 Key Features of IMP Work Permits
LMIA Exemption
The primary advantage of the IMP is that employers can hire foreign workers without going through the LMIA process, which can be a lengthy and complex procedure.
Facilitative Measures
IMP facilitates the entry of foreign workers to Canada for certain job categories, recognizing that there are positions for which the need for foreign workers is evident.
Work Permit Categories
IMP covers various categories, including intra-company transferees, significant benefit work permits, and others. Each category has specific requirements and criteria.
Length of Work Permits
The duration of work permits issued under the IMP varies depending on the category and the specific circumstances of the case. Work permits can be issued for short-term or long-term assignments.
Global Skills Strategy (GSS)
Within the IMP, the Global Skills Strategy is a specific stream designed to attract high-skilled talent to Canada. It includes the two-week processing of work permits for highly skilled workers.
Open Work Permits
Some IMP work permits are open, allowing foreign workers to work for any employer in Canada. This provides flexibility to the worker and can be particularly beneficial for accompanying spouses.