International Trade Agreements – Business Opportunities for Entrepreneurs

Canada actively pursues favorable conditions for its companies to compete globally, evidenced by its engagement in bilateral and multilateral Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). These agreements are instrumental in fostering international business mobility, particularly for temporary business travelers entering Canada.

Under most FTAs signed by Canada, foreign workers seeking work permits are often exempt from the Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) requirement. This exemption streamlines and expedites the work permit application process, facilitating smoother entry for foreign entrepreneurs.

The International Mobility Program (IMP) offers avenues for foreign nationals to secure work permits without the need for an LMIA. These permits, categorized as either open or closed, cater to various entrepreneurial and self-employed individuals, intra-company transferees, investors, and other relevant categories.