The CUSMA Work Permit is a work permit option for U.S. and Mexican citizens seeking professional work in Canada. It can be one of the faster pathways to legal work authorization in Canada.
Canadian employers hiring under CUSMA do not need a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
Which Professions Qualify for a CUSMA Work Permit
Applicants must be citizens of the U.S. or Mexico and must have a job offer or service contract with a Canadian employer.
The occupation must match their professional qualifications and must be listed on the official CUSMA professions list.
Eligible professions include engineers, accountants, lawyers, computer systems analysts, registered nurses, and post-secondary teachers. More than 60 professions can qualify in total.
Provincial Licensing and What to Prepare
Applicants must provide proof of education and relevant work experience.
Professionals in regulated fields, such as nursing, engineering, and law, must also meet provincial licensing requirements. These requirements vary by province.
The CUSMA work permit is issued by the federal government and is valid across Canada. Provincial licensing is a separate process.
This permit is also LMIA-exempt, meaning the employer does not need to apply for an LMIA before hiring the applicant.
Professionals exploring cross border work may also be interested in the TN Visa as an option for working in the United States.
Have questions about whether your profession qualifies?
We recommend you connect with a legal expert about your plans in order to receive direction and support for your specific needs. Our immigration lawyers and consultants can review your eligibility and guide you through the process. The Pilkington Immigration team works with clients across Canada, including Toronto, Ottawa, Vancouver, Calgary, and Edmonton. Our services can also be provided remotely.