The International Mobility Program and the Temporary foreign worker Program are two of the most popular ways foreign nationals can work here. Learn more about the differences between these work permits.
There are more than 100 options available to foreign nationals who wish to travel to Canada. These pathways can be classified under the Temporary foreign worker Program and the International Mobility Program.
While both the TFWP & the IMP are designed to support Canada’s economic growth and development, they have distinct policy objectives and eligibility requirements.
Below is a list of key differences between these two iconic Canadian work permits programs.
What are the goals/intentions for the program?
TFWP: TFWP is a program that allows Canadian employers to hire foreign nationals to address labor shortages. This program is designed to assist Canadian employers who require it. It also supports permanent residents and Canadian citizens by allowing them to apply for open positions. TFWP is not intended to offer reciprocal benefits to Canadians overseas as it offers to Canadian employers. The TFWP is instead focused on meeting the labor market needs of specific occupations and regions “at home.”
IMP: In contrast, the IMP was established to “promote Canada’s broad economic and social policy objectives [by allowing] foreign employees to enter Canada to strengthen bilateral ties between Canada, the global community as well as promote arts, culture, and religion in Canada.” The IMP is mainly based on multilateral or bilateral agreements with other countries (e.g., Canada-United States Mexico Agreement, CUSMA).
CUSMA was created in 2020 to replace NAFTA (North American Free Trade Agreement). It is a means of strengthening and extending economic ties between Canada, the two countries it shares a continent.
Is there a requirement for an LMIA?
Companies must submit employer-requested documents to prove that hiring foreign workers will not negatively impact the Canadian labor force, including a Labour Market Assessment (LMIA).
TFWP: Employers must submit an LMIA application for the Temporary Foreign Worker Program. It is important to remember that Employment and Social Development Canada is responsible for the LMIA, and Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada is accountable for the work permit application.
LMIA-exempt: The International Mobility Program does not require LMIAs to be completed by applicants who wish to work in Canada under this program. IRCC is responsible for submitting the work permit application for the IMP. This is similar to their role in the TFWP.
Who is the leader of these programs?
TFWP: Led and jointly managed by ESDC (IRCC)
IMP: Managed solely by IRCC
Does the wage involve with the position in question impact applicability/eligibility in this program?
TFWP: Wage is used instead of National Occupational Classification. (NOC) To determine program eligibility and applicability. Program requirements will differ depending on the stream.
IMP: Doesn’t stream by the wage offered
Is the work permit “open” for this program?
TFWP: This program is employer-specific. Foreign nationals who apply for work permits are tied to one employer — the one with which they use for the LMIA or temporary work permit.
IMP: IMP work permits are either employer-specific or open to all. IMP: Depending on the situation, the applicant can tie their work permit to a specific employer or let them work for any employer in the country.
Parting Notes
Finding the right person to work for the TFWP and IMP as an employee can be challenging. You also must ensure you take all the steps to obtain a work permit for both programs. A Canadian immigration lawyer with experience can assist.
