What is the difference between the Temporary Foreign Worker Program and the International Mobility Program?
Canada has two distinct streams for allowing foreign nationals to work temporarily: the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) and the International Mobility Program (IMP). Both are federal programs, but they operate under different frameworks.
The TFWP is the LMIA-based stream. Employers must obtain a positive LMIA from Service Canada before the foreign worker can apply for a work permit. The purpose is to ensure Canadian citizens and permanent residents have priority for available jobs.
The IMP covers LMIA-exempt work permits, where either an international agreement (like CUSMA), public policy, or other federal exemption eliminates the need for an LMIA. Employers hiring through the IMP must submit an Offer of Employment to IRCC and pay a compliance fee, but there is no Service Canada review of the labour market impact.
In practice, the IMP tends to be faster and involves less documentation, but it is only available for positions and workers that meet specific exemption criteria. The TFWP is the primary pathway when no exemption applies.
Understanding which program applies to a specific hiring situation is the first step — and the answer depends on the occupation, the worker's nationality, the nature of the employer-worker relationship, and other factors.
Key takeaways
- TFWP requires an LMIA; the IMP covers LMIA-exempt streams.
- The IMP generally involves less process but is only available for qualifying exemptions.
- IMP employers submit an Offer of Employment to IRCC and pay a compliance fee.
- Which program applies depends on the position, nationality, and exemption eligibility.