🇨🇦 Moving to Canada in 2025 Without an LMIA – International Mobility Program (IMP)

Are you planning to move to Canada in 2025? If so, understanding the immigration process is crucial, particularly when it comes to the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). This document, typically required by Canadian employers to hire foreign workers, demonstrates that no Canadian citizen or permanent resident is available for the job.

However, recent updates have made it possible to bypass the LMIA requirement through specific programs, such as the International Mobility Program (IMP) and others. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about LMIA-exempt pathways, recent policy changes, and practical application tips to streamline your immigration process.

What is an LMIA?

The Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a document Canadian employers must obtain to prove there is a genuine need to hire a foreign worker because no suitable Canadian is available.

Who Needs an LMIA in 2025?

• Employers hiring foreign workers under programs like the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP).
• Foreign nationals applying for work permits tied to non-exempt positions.

Why is it Required?

LMIAs help protect the Canadian labor market by prioritizing job opportunities for Canadians and permanent residents.

Can You Move to Canada Without an LMIA in 2025?

Yes! Certain programs allow foreign nationals to bypass the LMIA requirement. These include the International Mobility Program (IMP) and other specialized routes. These pathways align with Canada’s broader economic and cultural goals, making it easier for eligible applicants to move to Canada without the added complexity of securing an LMIA.

Top 5 LMIA-Exempt Routes to Canada in 2025

1. International Mobility Program (IMP)

The International Mobility Program (IMP) allows foreign workers to obtain a work permit without an LMIA. Categories include:

• Intra-Company Transfers (ICTs): For employees of multinational companies transferring to a Canadian branch.
• Work Permits Under Trade Agreements: Includes agreements like CUSMA, CETA, and CPTPP.
• Charitable or Religious Work Permits: For individuals working in non-profit or religious roles.
• Reciprocal Employment: For roles offering mutual employment exchange between countries.

Learn more about the IMP.

2. Global Talent Stream (GTS)

Aimed at high-demand tech professionals, the Global Talent Stream (GTS) offers expedited work permit processing for certain tech occupations without requiring an LMIA.

Recommended: Ottawa International Mobility Program: Career Opportunities in Canada’s Capital

3. Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

Graduates of eligible Canadian post-secondary institutions can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), allowing them to work in Canada without an LMIA.

4. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

Some Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) offer LMIA exemptions for certain occupations or employer-driven streams, allowing foreign workers to work in specific provinces.

5. Open Work Permits

These permits allow individuals to work for any employer without restrictions. Examples include:

• Spousal Open Work Permits
• Bridging Open Work Permits (BOWP)
• Permits under special circumstances

What is the International Mobility Program (IMP)?

The IMP facilitates LMIA-exempt work permits for foreign workers contributing to Canada’s economic, cultural, or social goals.

Key IMP Categories

• Intra-Company Transfers (ICTs): For employees of multinational companies.
• International Agreements: Covers trade agreements like CUSMA and CETA.
• Charitable or Religious Workers: For those in non-commercial or religious roles.

Updates to the IMP for 2025

Recent changes include:

1. Stricter Eligibility for ICTs: Employers must prove multinational operations with revenue-generating activities in at least two countries.
2. Limited Duration for Entrepreneurs: Work permits for entrepreneurs are now capped at one year. Extensions require significant milestones.
3. Wage Requirements: Employers must pay prevailing wage rates. Allowances like housing and travel no longer count toward compensation.
4. Active Operations Proof: Both foreign and Canadian entities must provide evidence of active operations.

Review the latest IMP changes.

Steps to Apply for the IMP in 2025

1. Determine Your Eligibility: Identify the IMP category that fits your profile (e.g., ICTs, trade agreements).
2. Gather Required Documents: Include proof of employment, job offer letter, and evidence of company operations.
3. Submit Your Application: Apply online through the IRCC portal.
4. Await Approval: Processing times are generally faster than LMIA-based permits.

Eligible Occupations Under the IMP for 2025

Category	Description	Common Occupations
Intra-Company Transferees	Transfers within multinational companies	Executives, Senior Managers, Specialists
Trade Agreement Professionals	Workers under agreements like CUSMA or CETA	Engineers, IT Specialists
Charitable or Religious Workers	Roles in non-profit or religious sectors	Clergy, Humanitarian Workers
Francophone Mobility	French-speaking workers outside Quebec	Health Professionals, Educators

Conclusion

Navigating Canada’s immigration pathways doesn’t have to be complicated. Programs like the International Mobility Program and other LMIA-exempt options provide faster, easier routes to achieve your dream of living and working in Canada. By understanding your options and staying updated on policy changes, you can simplify your journey and take advantage of these unique opportunities.

For more information and the latest updates, visit the IRCC official page.

References

• https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/news/notices.html.