US Professionals Gain a Faster Route to Work and Settle in Canada
Certain workers from the United States have a distinct advantage when it comes to moving to Canada for employment. Through the Canada–United States–Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), eligible US citizens can access simplified work authorization options that remove one of the biggest barriers most foreign workers face: the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
This facilitation allows qualified individuals to enter the Canadian labour market more quickly, gain valuable Canadian work experience, and build a strong foundation for permanent residence.
What Is CUSMA and Why It Matters?
CUSMA is a trade agreement between Canada, the United States, and Mexico that includes special mobility provisions for business professionals and skilled workers. Under this framework, eligible US and Mexican citizens can obtain Canadian work permits without requiring an LMIA, significantly reducing processing delays and employer burden.
It is important to note that these benefits apply only to citizens of the United States or Mexico—not permanent residents of those countries.
Who Can Apply Under CUSMA?
CUSMA covers four main categories of workers:
- Professionals
- Intra-company transferees
- Traders
- Investors
Each category has specific eligibility criteria, but all applicants must meet Canada’s general temporary resident requirements.
General Requirements for All CUSMA Applicants
Regardless of category, applicants must demonstrate that they:
- Intend to leave Canada when their work authorization ends
- Have sufficient funds to support themselves and accompanying family members
- Have no serious criminal or security concerns
- Are in good health and complete medical exams if required
- Will work only for eligible employers and comply with all immigration conditions
CUSMA work permits may be applied for from inside Canada if eligible, and US citizens—being visa-exempt—may also apply at a port of entry, subject to officer discretion.
Understanding the Four CUSMA Work Categories
1. Professionals
The professional category applies to individuals working in occupations specifically listed under CUSMA. These roles generally require post-secondary education or professional credentials.
Key requirements include:
- US or Mexican citizenship
- Employment in an approved CUSMA occupation
- Proof of qualifications related to the profession
- A pre-arranged job offer from a Canadian employer
Professional work permits are commonly issued for up to three years and may be extended.
2. Intra-Company Transferees
This category allows multinational companies to transfer key employees to their Canadian branch, subsidiary, or affiliate.
Eligibility includes:
- US or Mexican citizenship
- Employment in an executive, managerial, or specialized knowledge role
- A qualifying corporate relationship between the foreign and Canadian entity
- At least one year of full-time employment with the company in the past three years
Work permits are typically issued for up to three years, with total stay limits depending on the role.
3. Traders
Traders are individuals whose work involves substantial trade in goods or services between Canada and the US or Mexico.
Applicants must show:
- Citizenship of the US or Mexico
- That the enterprise is primarily owned by US or Mexican nationals
- That most trade activities occur between Canada and the US or Mexico
- That the role involves executive, supervisory, or essential skills
Trader work permits are usually issued for one year and can be renewed.
4. Investors
Investor work permits apply to individuals who have made or are actively making a significant investment in a Canadian business.
Eligibility requires:
- US or Mexican citizenship
- Proof of substantial investment or active investment plans
- A senior or essential role in the Canadian enterprise
- Employment focused on directing or developing the investment
Investor permits are commonly granted for one year, with renewal options available.
Applying From the US or Inside Canada
Because US citizens are visa-exempt, they may apply for CUSMA work permits at a Canadian port of entry if fully eligible. However, entry is always subject to an immigration officer’s assessment.
Applicants already in Canada should be aware that border-based applications and flagpoling options have become more restricted, making online applications a preferred route in many cases.
Bringing Family Members to Canada
Spouses and Partners
Spouses or common-law partners of CUSMA work permit holders may qualify for open work permits, allowing them to work for most Canadian employers.
Eligibility generally depends on:
- The principal worker holding a valid work permit
- Employment in high-skilled occupations
- Sufficient remaining work authorization validity
- Proof of a genuine relationship
Open work permits give spouses significant flexibility in the Canadian job market.
Children and Education
Dependent children may attend preschool, primary, or secondary school in Canada without a study permit if accompanied by a parent authorized to work. Post-secondary studies typically require a study permit.
Age-of-majority rules vary by province or territory.
How CUSMA Work Experience Supports Permanent Residence
Although CUSMA work permits are temporary, the Canadian work experience gained through them can significantly strengthen permanent residence applications.
Express Entry – Canadian Experience Class
CUSMA workers often qualify for the Canadian Experience Class once they accumulate one year of skilled Canadian work experience. This pathway is a key focus of Canada’s immigration system and rewards candidates with strong CRS scores.
Canadian work experience contributes valuable points toward permanent residence selection.
Provincial Nominee Programs
Many provinces prioritize candidates who already live and work locally. CUSMA workers with in-demand skills and ongoing employment may be strong candidates for provincial nomination.
A provincial nomination can dramatically increase the chances of receiving permanent residence approval.
Final Takeaway
CUSMA offers US citizens a rare and strategic advantage: faster access to Canadian work opportunities, family mobility, and a clear pathway toward permanent settlement. When used carefully and with proper planning, it can be one of the most effective routes from temporary work to permanent residence in Canada.
For a consultation about Immigration options, reach out to the CAD IMMIGRATION today!
