Great Opportunity for EU Citizens: Apply for Canadian Work Permits Without an LMIA
If you’re a citizen of the European Union, a new and simplified pathway is now available for you to work in Canada — without the long wait and complexity of obtaining a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
This opportunity comes through the Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), which was created to strengthen business, investment, and workforce mobility between Canada and EU member states. Under this agreement, certain skilled professionals can apply for a Canadian work permit without needing an LMIA, making the process faster, easier, and more accessible.
Who is Eligible to Apply?
To qualify for a CETA-based work permit, you must be a citizen of one of the 27 EU countries and meet the criteria under one of the following four categories:
1. Intra-Company Transferees
Eligible if you’re working for a multinational company and being transferred to a Canadian branch. Roles can include:
- Executives
- Senior Managers
- Specialists with unique knowledge or expertise
- Graduate trainees in professional development programs
2. Investors
Individuals responsible for establishing, developing, or managing a major investment in Canada may be eligible. This pathway is ideal for business owners and corporate leaders expanding operations into Canada.
3. Contractual Service Suppliers and Independent Professionals
Self-employed or contracted service providers working under a pre-arranged Canadian contract may be eligible, especially in fields like:
- Engineering
- Architecture
- IT and telecommunications
- Urban planning
- Marketing and business consulting
4. Technologists and Scientists
Includes engineering technologists and other science or technical professionals contracted to perform specialized tasks or services in Canada.
List of Eligible EU Countries
Citizens of the following countries are eligible under the CETA work permit agreement:
Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden.
Key Benefits of the CETA Work Permit
- No LMIA required, reducing complexity and delays
- Fast processing time (1 week to 3 months depending on country)
- Work permits valid for up to 12 months or 3 years
- Renewals available for many categories
- Spouses of certain applicants may qualify for an open work permit
How to Apply for a CETA Work Permit
For Employers:
- Submit a job offer through Canada’s Employer Portal
- Pay the compliance fee ($230 CAD)
- Provide the offer number to the applicant
For Applicants:
- Submit the work permit application online or via visa office
- Provide all necessary documents (education, work experience, job offer)
- Pay the $150 CAD processing fee and biometrics fee if applicable ($85 CAD)
Spouse and Family Options
Spouses of intra-company transferees may apply for an open work permit, provided the principal applicant’s job is classified under TEER levels 0, 1, 2, or 3 (high-skilled positions). An open permit allows the spouse to work for any Canadian employer.
Why This Matters
Canada is actively seeking skilled professionals to address workforce shortages in key industries. The CETA work permit streamlines the process for EU citizens, offering a faster, simpler, and more direct path to legally work in Canada.
This is a great opportunity for professionals, business owners, and specialists looking to start a new career journey in Canada.
For a consultation about Immigration options, reach out to the CAD IMMIGRATION today!
