Moving to Canada: Advantages for U.S. Workers under CUSMA

Individuals from the United States looking to relocate and work in Canada have specific advantages and streamlined processes to facilitate their move.

The Canada–United States–Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), known as the USMCA free trade agreement, enables certain U.S. and Mexican citizens to work in Canada more efficiently within designated business categories.

Qualified professionals under this program enjoy exemptions from the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) requirement, a significant hurdle for many foreign nationals in Canada that often delays their employment process.

Here is a comprehensive overview of eligibility criteria, category-specific requirements, provisions for accompanying family members, and how Canadian work experience can contribute to obtaining permanent residence (PR).

Eligibility Criteria under CUSMA

CUSMA benefits are exclusively available to U.S. and Mexican citizens (excluding permanent residents). The program encompasses various worker categories, including professionals, intra-company transferees, traders, and investors.

General Requirements for CUSMA Applicants

Regardless of the type of work permit sought, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) mandates that applicants meet basic temporary resident/work permit prerequisites. These include demonstrating intent to leave Canada upon permit expiry, possessing adequate financial resources for self-support and dependents, complying with laws, maintaining good health, and adhering to employer restrictions.

CUSMA categories are explicitly permitted for in-Canada applications under certain conditions, and visa-exempt travelers meeting eligibility criteria can apply at designated ports of entry.

Category-Specific Requirements

A) Professionals

IRCC guidelines define the Professional category as work at a professional level in occupations specified in CUSMA’s Appendix, assessed within the International Mobility Program framework.

Key Eligibility Criteria:

  • U.S. (or Mexican) citizenship
  • Occupation listed in the CUSMA professional roster
  • Qualification for the profession (degree/certification in relevant field)
  • Pre-arranged employment with a Canadian employer

Employer Obligations (common for employer-specific IMP work permits):

  • Submission of an employment offer via the ESDC Employer Portal
  • Payment of the $230 employer compliance fee
  • Provision of the offer of employment number to the worker