Canada has entered into several international trade agreements that have implications for the International Mobility Program (IMP) and immigration. Here are some of the key agreements:

Canada’s International Mobility Program (IMP) is a government initiative designed to facilitate the entry of foreign workers into the country for temporary employment purposes. The program aims to support Canadian businesses by addressing labor shortages and fostering international collaboration. Under the IMP, employers can hire foreign workers without the need for a labor market impact assessment (LMIA) in certain cases. This streamlines the hiring process and provides flexibility for employers to meet their workforce needs. The IMP encompasses various work permit categories, including those for intra-company transfers, international agreements, and reciprocal employment programs. It plays a crucial role in promoting economic growth and cultural exchange in Canada.

Canada has entered into numerous international agreements which directly impact the International Mobility Program.

1. Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA):
   CETA is a trade agreement between Canada and the European Union (EU) and its member states. It aims to facilitate trade and investment between the parties. Under CETA, provisions are in place to enhance the mobility of professionals, allowing for easier temporary entry for certain categories of workers and professionals between Canada and the EU.
2. Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA):
   CUSMA, also known as the new NAFTA, is a trade agreement between Canada, the United States, and Mexico. It replaced the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). CUSMA includes provisions related to temporary entry for business persons, enabling streamlined work permit processes for certain professional occupations, intra-company transferees, and traders and investors.
3. General Agreement on Trade in Services (GATS):
   GATS is a World Trade Organization (WTO) agreement that covers trade in services, including temporary movement of service providers. GATS provides a framework for countries to negotiate and liberalize trade in services. It establishes principles and rules for the temporary entry of service providers, which can impact the movement of professionals and workers under the IMP.
4. International Mobility Agreements (IMAs):
   Canada has bilateral agreements with several countries, known as International Mobility Agreements or Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs). These agreements aim to facilitate the movement of professionals and workers between the participating countries. IMAs often provide streamlined processes for work permits, enhance labor market mobility, and promote reciprocal opportunities for temporary employment.
5. Free Trade Agreements (FTAs):
   Canada has signed numerous free trade agreements with countries around the world, including South Korea, Chile, Colombia, Peru, and others. These FTAs often contain provisions related to temporary entry and the movement of business persons, promoting trade and investment between the countries involved.

Lyon Stern has extensive experience working with businesses to facilitate the entry of foreign workers into Canada for temporary employment purposes. It’s important to note that the specific provisions and requirements under these agreements may vary. They typically outline eligibility criteria, occupation lists, and other conditions for temporary entry. The agreements aim to facilitate the movement of professionals and workers across borders while ensuring the protection of domestic labor markets and workers’ rights.

The IMP considers these international trade agreements and their provisions when determining eligibility and processing work permits for individuals seeking employment in Canada. Individuals and employers need to be aware of the specific provisions applicable to their circumstances and consult the relevant agreements and immigration authorities for the most up-to-date information.