International Mobility Program (IMP)
Family of LMIA-exempt work permits for candidates who bring significant benefit to Canada or are covered by an international trade agreement.
International Mobility Program (IMP)
The IMP (International Mobility Program) is a family of Canadian work-permit streams for foreign workers who bring significant economic, cultural or social benefits to Canada — or who are covered by an international trade agreement. The defining feature: no LMIA is required.
Two types of IMP work permits
- Work Permit — usually requires a specific job offer from a Canadian employer
- Open Work Permit — does not require a job offer
Both are LMIA-exempt. For example, the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and the Bridging Open Work Permit fall under IMP as open work permits — no job offer or LMIA needed. In contrast, streams under 'Significant Benefit', such as Mobilité Francophone, are IMP work permits that still require a job offer from a Canadian employer outside Quebec but remain LMIA-exempt.
General conditions
- Valid educational credentials
- Sufficient work experience
- Enough funds to cover living costs in Canada
- Good English or French language skills
- Medical fitness
- No criminal record
Stream-specific conditions
Each IMP pathway has its own extra requirements — for example, the Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) route requires a realistic business plan for your activity in Canada, and the Mobilité Francophone program requires at least B1 French plus a job offer from a Canadian employer outside Quebec in any NOC category (except primary agriculture).
IMP vs. TFWP
The Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) also lets Canadian employers hire foreign workers, but every TFWP file needs an LMIA and processing typically takes longer than under the IMP.
What's included
- No LMIA required (PGWP, Bridging OWP, Mobilité Francophone…)
- Open or employer-specific streams available
- Fastest route to a Canadian work permit for eligible profiles
How TIA guides your file
Initial Assessment
We review your goals, background, immigration history, and available options.
Strategy & Document Plan
You receive a clear explanation of the recommended pathway and required documents.
Application Preparation
Your forms, letters, and supporting documents are organized and reviewed carefully.
Submission & Follow-Up
We support the process after submission and help you understand updates or further requests.
Frequently asked questions
Who qualifies for an IMP work permit?
Do I need a job offer for IMP?
Is IMP faster than TFWP?
Ready to explore this pathway?
Book a free initial consultation and get a clear next step for your case.
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