Maple News reports that employers seeking to bring foreign talent into Canada must ensure employees are authorized to work legally, with three primary pathways available under Canadian immigration law: Work Permit Exemptions, the International Mobility Program (IMP), and the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP).
The first and often simplest path is through a Work Permit Exemption. In some cases, foreign nationals can perform specific types of work in Canada without needing a permit. These roles typically do not engage directly with the Canadian labour market and are generally short-term, such as business visitors, guest speakers, or certain performers. Employment under this category usually lasts fewer than six months but may allow for multiple entries within that time.
If the exemption route does not apply, employers should consider the International Mobility Program. The IMP issues work permits based on broader economic and cultural interests rather than strict labour market demands. Programs such as intra-company transfers and NAFTA professionals (now under CUSMA) fall into this category. While it involves moderate effort and paperwork, its processing time and criteria vary depending on the type of permit.
The final and most structured option is the Temporary Foreign Worker Program. TFWP applies when employers wish to hire workers temporarily for roles where a labour shortage exists. This program requires a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), proving that no Canadians or permanent residents are available to do the job. Advertising the position publicly is usually mandatory, and the process is more rigorous, time-consuming, and monitored.
Duration of work authorization varies: Work permit exemptions generally apply to roles under six months, while IMP and TFWP permits can last one to three years and are often renewable based on specific conditions.
Maple News emphasizes that the ideal process is to first determine if a work permit exemption applies. If not, employers should then evaluate eligibility under IMP. Only if neither route works should they turn to the TFWP, despite its broader applicability, due to the heavier administrative burden.
Canadian employers are increasingly relying on these immigration streams to access global talent, particularly in sectors such as tech, hospitality, and construction. With careful planning and compliance with federal regulations, businesses can effectively utilize international workers for their operations in Canada.