CUSMA Work Permits: Mobility Under Trade Agreements

The Canada United States Mexico Agreement, or CUSMA, provides important opportunities

for professionals and businesses to work across borders. Under this agreement, citizens of

the three member countries can obtain work permits without the need for a Labour Market

Impact Assessment.

There are several categories of CUSMA work permits. The professional category covers a wide list of occupations, allowing individuals with qualifying credentials to work in Canada. Intra company transferees are another category, enabling employees of multinational companies to transfer to Canadian branches. Traders and investors may also qualify if they are conducting substantial business or investments between the member countries.

One of the primary benefits of CUSMA permits is faster processing. Because they are LMIA

exempt, the application is more straightforward and can often be completed at the border

or port of entry. This makes them highly practical for businesses and individuals who need

to respond quickly to cross border opportunities.

CUSMA work permits are a vital tool for professionals and companies seeking to expand

operations within North America. They provide flexibility, efficiency, and predictability,

making them a cornerstone of international mobility in the region.

Ask Annie: If you are applying as a professional under CUSMA, double check that your

occupation matches the official list. I have seen applications delayed simply because the job title on the contract did not match the wording in the agreement.

Disclaimer: The information shared in this blog is intended for general educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as legal advice. Immigration policies and regulations can change without notice, and interpretations may vary based on individual circumstances. While care is taken to ensure accuracy at the time of publication, Immigration Station Canada Corp. and its Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCICs) cannot guarantee that all information remains current or applicable to every situation. For advice tailored to your personal immigration needs, please consult directly with a qualified RCIC.

If you require additional assistance, please do not hesitate to contact Immigration Station Canada. We offer professional immigration advice to help you through every step of the process.

Immigration Station Canada will work with you and guide you through the best process to

achieve your goals, wherever they lead!

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About Us

Immigration Station Canada is a dedicated, professional Canadian Immigration firm practicing out of Northumberland County, just east of Toronto, Canada. We serve clients from Kingston, Belleville, Brighton, Cobourg, Oshawa, the GTA, Guelph, Milton, Stratford, St. Catharines, and around the world. Our Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant, Anne C. McCaughey (Annie), is an experienced immigration services provider and a fifth-generation Canadian who values the immigration process and the unique individuals who immigrate to Canada to become part of the fabric of this wonderful country. If you would like to submit a question to Ask Annie, use the contact form.

How Can We Help?  We do work permits, study permits, visitor visas, Express Entry, spousal sponsorship, family class sponsorship, and Canadian citizenship, with expertise in Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) applications and Global Talent Stream applications. Please contact us if you would like assistance with your immigration application or to book an appointment.