Immigration Lawyer
International Mobility Program: North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA)
Immigration Lawyer
Canadian Immigration NAFTA Professional Work Permit
NAFTA allows for a smooth pathway for U.S and Mexican citizens to enter Canada for temporary business or investment reasons. A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is not required for individuals belonging to this group. As such, the lengthy and tricky process of obtaining a positive LMIA can be avoided as the job offer does not need to be pre-approved by Employment and Social Development Canada. With proper documentation, the U.S. or Mexican national may obtain the work permit at a Canadian port of entry.
There are four groups of business people under NAFTA:
Business Visitors
A business visitor is someone who comes to Canada to take part in international business activities without being part of the Canadian labour market. Business visitors usually stay in Canada for a few days or a few weeks but are able to stay for up to six months. A work permit is not required under this category.
Professionals
To work in Canada as a professional, you must:
- Be qualified to work in one of the jobs set out in NAFTA (for example, accountant, computer systems analyst or engineer);
- Have a job offer from a Canadian business in that field; and
- Have a work permit.
Intra-company transfer
This is a person who is sent to work for the same company in a different country. If this is your case, you must:
- Have worked
- On an ongoing basis,
- For at least one year in the last three years,
- For the same or a related employer in the United States or Mexico,
- Be transferred to Canada to work short term for the same or a related employer;
- Work as a manager, as an executive or in a job that uses specialized knowledge; and
- Have a work permit
Traders and investors
To work in Canada as a trader or investor, you must:
- Be involved in planning, as a supervisor or executive, or in a role that involves essential skills,
- A large amount of trade in goods or services, mainly between Canada and your home country, or
- A large investment in Canada by you or your company,
- Meet any other rules of NAFTA and
- Have a work permit
We can Help
The skilled immigration lawyers at Nanda & Associate Lawyers will assist you inInternational Mobility Program. We will impart sound legal advice to help you on the path to a better and safer future for you and your family.