🇨🇦 Canada · Employer-sponsored work
CUSMA Professionals (formerly NAFTA) — IMP, LMIA-exempt — requirements, costs & how to apply
Who is eligible
| Job offer | Required |
| Employer sponsor | Required |
| Work experience | 1+ years |
| Age range | 14–65 |
Costs
| Application / consular fee | €105 |
Duration & renewal
Initial stay: 36 months. Does not lead directly to permanent residence.
Who can apply
Open to all nationalities.
How to apply
- Confirm you meet the eligibility above.
- Gather documents and apply via the official portal: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/work-canada.html.
Frequently asked
Does this visa lead to permanent residence?
No — it does not lead directly to permanent residence.
Sources & verification
Every figure on this page is taken from an official government source and dated. Nothing is inferred.
“Work-in-Canada portal: 'Employer-specific work permit — Job offer required'. CUSMA/IMP professional work permits are employer-specific (LMIA-exempt under R204 because of the free-trade agreement) but still require a qualifying job offer from a Canadian employer; this is a temporary work permit, not a points-based independent route.”
“Work in Canada temporarily. Apply for a work permit, extend a work permit or hire a foreign worker. (general portal; silent on PR for CUSMA professionals.)”
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Informational only, not legal or immigration advice. Requirements change — always confirm on the official government source linked above before applying. Last verified 2026-06-24.