International Agreements

NAFTA

This section contains policy, procedures and guidance used by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada staff. It is posted on the Department’s website as a courtesy to stakeholders. 

1.1 Purpose of this section

This page contains information on the temporary entry provisions of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).

The text of the actual agreement is found in part V, Chapter 16.

1.2 Policy intent

The NAFTA seeks to liberalize trade between the U.S., Mexico and Canada and abolish tariffs and other trade barriers. The Agreement opens up the three countries’ markets by ensuring that future laws will not create barriers to doing business.

In order for trade to expand, individuals must have access to each other’s country to sell, provide goods or services or trade and invest. Chapter 16 of the NAFTA, entitled “Temporary Entry for Business Personsâ€, provides the mechanisms to allow  selected categories of temporary workers access to each other’s market(s).

Chapter 16 eases the temporary entry of citizens of the U.S., Mexico and Canada, whose activities are related to the trade of goods or services, or to investment. The NAFTA is a reciprocal agreement and Canadians will be afforded similar treatment when seeking  entry to the U.S. or Mexico. Chapter 16 does not replace, but adds to our existing general provisions. An American or Mexican  business person seeking entry to Canada is eligible for consideration under the provisions of the NAFTA, as well as the general  provisions which apply to all foreign workers.

1.3 Background

The NAFTA reflects a preferential trading relationship initiated between Canada and the U.S. under the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and now expanded to include Mexico. With the coming into force of the NAFTA, the FTA was suspended.

Chapter 16 of the NAFTA is modelled on the FTA and deals only with temporary entry of selected business persons. It has no effect on permanent residence. The Agreement defines temporary entry as entry without the intent to establish permanent residence.

Under the NAFTA, the U.S., Mexico and Canada are required to meet a number of obligations. Among them are the publication of a public information booklet on temporary entry under the NAFTA and the provision of statistical information. Given the growing public image of the NAFTA and the importance of sharing information with our NAFTA partners, it is crucial that data entered into FOSS or GCMS be as accurate and as complete as possible in order to meet our obligations related to statistics.

A trilateral Temporary Entry Working Group, consisting of officials from departments which have an interest in the temporary entry of workers, meets every year to oversee the implementation and administration of Chapter 16 of the NAFTA. The director of Economic Policy and Programs (SSE), Selection Branch (SSD), and U.S. and Mexican immigration officials co-chair this working group. The Working Group is also responsible to develop measures to facilitate temporary entry of business persons on a reciprocal basis.

1.4 What NAFTA does

  • NAFTA facilitates temporary entry for business persons who are citizens of the U.S., Mexico and Canada and who are involved in the trade of goods or services, or in investment activities.
  • NAFTA removes the need for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) for all business persons covered by the Agreement
  • In the case of a business visitor, it removes the need for a work permit.
  • For professionals and intra-company transferees, it expedites the application process because one can apply at the port of entry (POE), (note that nationals who require a temporary resident visa to enter Canada, however, should apply at a visa office prior to

1.5 What NAFTA does not do

  • NAFTA does not assist permanent admission.
  • It does not apply to permanent residents of the three countries.
  • It does not replace the general provisions dealing with foreign workers.
  • It has no effect on universal requirements related to passports and identity documentation, medical examinations and safety and security.
  • It does not replace the need for workers to meet licensing or certification requirements respecting the exercise of a profession.
  • It does not extend special privileges to spouses and members of the family. Their entry is governed by the provisions of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and the Regulations.

1.6 Who is covered by NAFTA?

The temporary entry provisions of Chapter 16 of the NAFTA are restricted to citizens of the U.S., Mexico and Canada. In the case of the U.S., citizens of the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico are covered by the NAFTA; however, citizens of Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, American Samoa and the U.S. Virgin Islands are excluded from the NAFTA.

Permanent residents of the three countries are not covered. They are, however, covered by the general provisions governing the temporary entry of foreign workers.

1.7 Regulatory authority

The temporary entry provisions of the NAFTA are to be used in addition to the general entry provisions governing foreign workers. The business visitor category is the same as the generally-applied rule in R186(a) except that the general rule allows for after-lease servicing with the same conditions, while NAFTA is slightly more restrictive and requires a sale.

The other three categories of business person are eligible for work permits through R204(a), which exempts from the LMIA process persons whose entry is granted pursuant to an international agreement between Canada and other countries.  Administrative codes have been assigned to each category.

1.8 Categories of business persons included under the NAFTA

Business persons included in Chapter 16 of the NAFTA are grouped under four categories:

  • business visitors;
  • professionals;
  • intra-company transferees;
  • traders and investors.

Business visitors engage in international business activities related to research and design; growth, manufacture and production; marketing; sales; distribution; after-sales service; and general service. These activities reflect the components of a business cycle  (see Appendix 1603.A.1 of Chapter 16).

Business visitors are authorized to enter Canada for business purposes under R186(a) and can carry out their activities without the need for a work permit.

Professionals are business persons who enter to provide pre-arranged professional services— either as a salaried employee of a Canadian enterprise, through a contract between the business person and a Canadian employer, or through a contract between the American or Mexican employer of the business person and a Canadian enterprise. Appendix 1603.D.1 of NAFTA lists more than 60 occupations covered by the Agreement. Professionals enter to provide services in the field for which they are qualified.

Professionals are not subject to an LMIA but require a work permit (R204, T23).

Intra-company transferees are employed by an American or Mexican enterprise in a managerial or executive capacity, or in one which involves specialized knowledge, and are being transferred to the Canadian enterprise, parent, branch, subsidiary, or affiliate,  to provide services in the same capacity.

Intra-company transferees are exempt from the LMIA process but require a work permit (R204, T24).

Traders and investors carry on substantial trade in goods or services between the U.S. or Mexico and Canada or have committed, or are in the process of committing, a substantial amount of capital in Canada. Traders and investors must be employed in a  supervisory or executive capacity or one that involves essential skills.

Traders and investors are not subject to the LMIA process but require a work permit (R204, exemption codes T21 and T22, respectively) for which they must apply at a visa office before departing for Canada.

1.9 Admission decisions

In assessing applications for temporary entry by citizens of the U.S. or Mexico, all available mechanisms for temporary entry should be considered. An American or Mexican citizen who is not eligible for entry under the NAFTA may qualify under the general  provisions governing temporary workers.

In making admission decisions the overall objectives of the NAFTA which seek to facilitate trade between Canada, the U.S. and Mexico should be considered.

1.10 NAFTA definitions and interpretations

The following general definitions, contained in Chapter 2 “General Definitions†and Chapter 16 “Temporary Entry for Business Persons†of the NAFTA deal with temporary entry:

  • business person  means a citizen of a Party (a “Party†means the U.S., Mexico or Canada) who is engaged in trade in  goods, the provision of services or the conduct of investment activities;
  • enterprise means any entity constituted or organized under applicable law, whether or not for profit, and whether privately-owned or owned by government, including any corporation, trust, partnership, sole proprietorship, joint venture or other association;
  • enterprise of a Party means an enterprise constituted or organized under the law of a Party;
  • existing refers to, for Canada and the U.S., the date of entry into force of the FTA (January 1, 1989); while for Canada and Mexico and for the U.S. and Mexico it is the date of entry into force of the NAFTA (January 1, 1994);
  • measure includes any law, regulation, procedure, requirement or practice.

Note:  Temporary entry means entry into the territory of a Party by a business person of another Party without the intent to establish permanent residence. This definition is consistent with Canadian immigration law. It is sufficiently flexible to respond to the needs of business persons and it recognizes that the concept of temporary entry cannot, in most situations, be based simply on a specific time limitation. The definition is not to be perceived as being open-ended, nor as a mechanism to circumvent procedures applicable to permanent residence.

Like many temporary workers, temporary workers authorized to enter Canada under the NAFTA are allowed to work temporarily either in a temporary or permanent position. The NAFTA cannot be used, however, as a means to remain in Canada indefinitely.

1.11 Administrative definitions and interpretations

Labour certification tests: In Canada, this means the Employment and Social Development Canada LMIA or the LMIA of a job offer for a temporary foreign worker. (R203)

Procedures of similar effect: These are administrative or legal requirements related to immigration procedures which may have the result of delaying or preventing a business person from engaging, or continuing to engage, in a covered profession,  occupation, or activity. They do not include the immigration procedures established by Canada, the U.S. or Mexico:

  • to implement the provisions of Chapter 16 of the North American Free Trade Agreement; and
  • to ensure compliance with general entry requirements relating to public health, safety, and national security.

1.12 Labour dispute

Chapter 16 contains a labour dispute clause which permits an officer to refuse to issue a work permit where the entry of a person would adversely affect the settlement of a strike in progress or the employment of a person involved in the strike.

Article 1603 of the NAFTA states:

“2. A Party may refuse to issue an immigration document authorizing employment to a business person where the temporary entry of that person might affect adversely:

  • the settlement of any labor dispute that is in progress at the place or intended place of employment; or
  • the employment of any person who is involved in such dispute

3. When a Party refuses pursuant to paragraph 2 to issue an immigration document authorizing employment, it shall:

  • a. inform in writing the business person of the reasons for the refusal; and
  • b. promptly notify in writing the Party whose business person has been refused entry of the reasons for the refusal.â€

The provision applies only to NAFTA business persons subject to the requirement for a work permit: professionals, intra-company transferees, and traders and investors.

To comply with Articles 1603.3(a) and 1603.3(b) of the NAFTA, officers are required to:

  • provide a letter at the time of refusal to the applicant that includes the following information:
    • date and place of refusal,
    • name and any known address of the business person,
    • citizenship of the business person,
    • name and address of prospective employer,
    • position to be occupied,
    • requested duration of stay,
    • reason(s) for refusal,
    • reference to NAFTA provision 1603.2(a) and/or R200(3)(c); and
  • inform NHQ by sending an URGENT fax with complete information on the case, including a copy of the above refusal letter and copies of documentation presented by the applicant, to: Director, Economic Policy and Programs (SSE), Selection  Branch (SSD), FAX (613) 954-0850. A copy of the fax is to be sent to the Regional Office concerned. NHQ will inform the country of which the business person is a citizen. 

See General Provisions for more information on examining and processing business visitors

2.1 What requirements apply to business visitors?

The following requirements apply:

  • citizenship of the U.S. or Mexico;
  • business activities as described in Appendix 1603.A.1;
  • activities are international in scope;
  • no intent to enter the Canadian labour market;
  • the primary source of remuneration remains outside Canada;
  • the principal place of business remains outside Canada; and
  • compliance with existing immigration/admissibility requirements for temporary entry.

2.2 What business activities are covered by Appendix 1603.A.1?

Business activities covered by Appendix 1603.A.1 are activities of a commercial nature which reflect the components of a business cycle:

  • research and design;
  • growth, manufacture and production;
  • marketing;
  • sales
  • distribution;
  • after-sales service; and
  • general service.

Appendix 1603.A.1 of the NAFTA is reprinted in section 2.7. The wording of the Appendix has been modified from the official NAFTA text and explanatory notes added.

Appendix 1603.A.1 is not exhaustive but illustrates the types of activities covered. It is not merely the activities but the requirements for business visitors which must be considered.

Professionals described in Appendix 1603.D.1 can be authorized to enter Canada under the general service provision of the business visitor category when they are not seeking to enter the labour market and the primary source of remuneration remains outside Canada, in other words, when they meet the Business Visitor criteria.

2.3 Where can a business visitor apply for entry?

Business visitors must apply at a POE in the same manner as persons covered by other paragraphs of R186. An application cannot be made prior to arriving in Canada.

Business visitors can be authorized to enter Canada at the Primary Inspection Line, except persons applying for entry under the after-sales service provision, who must be referred to Immigration Secondary.

2.4 What documentation must a business visitor present to support an application?

A business visitor must provide the following documentation:

  • proof of American or Mexican citizenship;
  • documentation to support that the purpose for entry, for instance a business activity listed in Appendix 1603.A.1; and
  • evidence that the business activity is international in scope and that the person is not attempting to enter the Canadian labour market. The business person can satisfy these requirements by demonstrating that:
    • the primary source of remuneration is outside Canada, and
    • the person’s place of business remains outside Canada and the profits of the business are accumulated primarily outside Canada.

In addition to establishing the purpose for entry, the officer should confirm that the applicant retains employment outside Canada (as an employee of an enterprise or as a self-employed individual) and that the primary source of remuneration remains outside Canada. In general, an individual who is to be paid in Canada would be considered to be joining the labour market and could not be authorized to enter Canada as a business visitor. The payment of expenses incidental to the trip is allowed, as is an honorarium

Typical examples of business activities include, but are not limited to, consultation, negotiation, discussion, research, participation in educational, professional or business conventions or meetings and soliciting business.

As the NAFTA is a facilitative agreement, the applicant should be given every opportunity to establish that the admission criteria for business visitors are being met and to provide any missing documentation by alternative means, such as by fax.

A verbal statement that the business of the applicant is being carried on outside Canada can be acceptable. Alternative indications (business cards, business papers, advertising pamphlets, etc.) may be helpful.

When dealing with applicants for temporary entry under the after-sales service provision of Appendix 1603.A.1, copies of the original sales, warranty or service agreement and extensions of such agreements are needed.

2.5 What documents are issued and can extensions be granted?

Existing policies and procedures pertaining to the documentation of visitors and to extensions apply.

Because of the nature of the activities of a business visitor, the stay in Canada will usually be short- term.

Business visitors may seek entry to Canada for a number of regular visits related to a specific project. These visits may take place over a period of weeks or months. In these circumstances, consideration should be given to issuing a Visitor Record to facilitate  entry and to reduce potential referrals to Immigration Secondary.

Persons authorized to enter Canada under the after-sales service provision for a period (on-the-job) longer than two days must be issued a Visitor Record.

If a Visitor Record is issued, the special program identifier “FTA†or “054†should be used.

Applications for extension of status should be based on the requirements specified above.

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1.6 Who is covered by NAFTA?

The temporary entry provisions of Chapter 16 of the NAFTA are restricted to citizens of the U.S., Mexico and Canada. In the case of the U.S., citizens of the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico are covered by the NAFTA; however, citizens of Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, American Samoa and the U.S. Virgin Islands are excluded from the NAFTA.

Permanent residents of the three countries are not covered. They are, however, covered by the general provisions governing the temporary entry of foreign workers.

2.6 After-sales service

All persons applying for entry under the after-sales service provision of Appendix 1603.A.1must be referred to Immigration Secondary.

2.6.1 What requirements apply to after-sales service personnel?

The following requirements apply:

  • citizenship of the U.S. or Mexico;
  • purpose of entry is to install, repair, service, or supervise these functions, or train workers to perform services (see section 2.6.2 for definition of ‘Installation’);
  • equipment or machinery (including computer software) is commercial or industrial (not household or personal);
  • equipment or machinery or computer software was manufactured and purchased outside Canada;
  • work is pursuant to original sales contract and any warranty or service agreement incidental (connected) to the sale;
  • work is carried out during the validity of any warranty or service agreement or any extensions of same;
  • work requires specialized knowledge (which excludes hands-on building and construction work); and
  • compliance with existing immigration requirements for temporary entry.
2.6.2 What is after-sales service?

After-sales service includes the installation, or repair, or servicing of commercial or industrial equipment or machinery, or computer software.

Installation includes only setting-up and testing of the commercial or industrial equipment or machinery, or computer  software. It does not include operating the equipment or machinery, or computer software for production and excludes hands-on building and construction work. The term installation generally refers to activities which do not include hands-on building and construction work, such as installation of computer software. 

2.6.3 Who may enter to perform after-sales service?
  • Persons may be granted entry to install, repair and maintain equipment and machinery and computer software or to supervise or train workers performing installation, repair and maintenance of such equipment.
  • Entry shall not be granted to any temporary worker who will be performing hands-on building and construction work even if the sales, warranty or service agreement specifies that their services be provided (see section 2.6.4 for information on hands-on building and construction work).
  • Persons granted entry to train or to supervise may also train or supervise the workers who are doing the hands-on building and construction work. Supervising and training might occasionally require demonstrating a procedure. A demonstration must not, however, result in the completion of an installation or servicing task, or of part of such task, or in the productive operation of the equipment or machinery.
2.6.4 Who may not enter to perform after-sales service?
  • Persons whose activities or services in Canada would constitute hands-on building and construction work may not enter to provide after-sales service. Hands-on building and construction work is not considered to require specialized knowledge  (see section 2.6.5 for information on specialized knowledge). Generally the entry of foreign tradespersons in the building and  construction industry is subject to an assessment of the availability of domestic labour (an LMIA). As part of the LMIA  process, Service Canada will consult with organized labour prior to making a determination.
  • Regardless of the existence of wording in sales, warranty or service agreements that requires company personnel to perform the installation or servicing, entry should not be granted when personnel will be performing hands-on building and construction work.

Building and construction work includes installing, maintaining and repairing:

  • utility services;
  • any part of the fabric of any building or structure; or
  • machinery, equipment or structures within a building.

Building and construction work includes activities normally performed by (but not limited to):

  • labourers
  • millwrights;
  • heat and frost insulators;
  • bricklayers;
  • carpenters and joiners;
  • electrical workers;
  • operating engineers (includes heavy equipment operators);
  • elevator constructors;
  • sheet metal workers;
  • teamsters;
  • boilermakers;
  • residential, commercial or industrial painters (including the application of all surface coatings no matter how applied);
  • bridge, structural and ornamental ironworkers;
  • plumbers and pipefitters;
  • roofers;
  • plasterers and cement masons.

Building and construction work includes work involving:

  • assembly lines;
  • conveyor belts and systems;
  • overhead cranes;
  • heating, cooling, and ventilation or exhaust systems;
  • elevators and escalators;
  • boilers and turbines; and
  • dismantling or demolition of commercial or industrial equipment or machinery, whether on-site or in-plant.

Also, persons are not covered by this provision if they are seeking entry to engage in site preparation work, services installation (for example, electricity, gas, water) and connection of the commercial or industrial equipment or machinery to such services.

2.6.5 What requirements apply to a person seeking entry to provide after-sales service?

The person seeking entry must possess specialized knowledge essential to the seller’s contractual obligation.

“Specialized knowledge†is considered to be a very high degree of knowledge only given to an already skilled person through extensive training. In determining whether the person possesses specialized knowledge, the following factors should be  considered:

  • the skill and/or knowledge level necessary to perform the proposed activity in Canada (i.e., the services to be provided must require the use of specialized knowledge which generally excludes hands-on building and construction work);
  • the high level of skill or knowledge the person possesses as indicated by a relevant post- secondary degree or diploma, or by licensing, certification or accreditation issued by an authoritative body;
  • additional training, whether in-class or on-the-job, which is essential for providing the service.

The person must be employed by an enterprise established in the U.S. or Mexico.

The person’s proposed activities in Canada must be supported by clear wording in a sales, warranty or service contract.

2.6.6 What requirements apply to the equipment or machinery, or computer software?
  • The equipment or machinery, or computer software must be for use in a commercial or industrial setting. The after-sales service provision does not apply to household or personal goods or appliances.
  • The commercial or industrial equipment or machinery or the computer software must have been manufactured outside Canada.
  • The commercial or industrial equipment or machinery or the computer software must have been purchased from a manufacturer or distributor located outside of Canada.

Equipment or machinery leased or rented from an enterprise outside of Canada is not covered under the after-sales service provision. For computer software, “purchase†includes a licensing agreement.

The purchase of the equipment or machinery or computer software is usually made by a direct sales transaction between a manufacturer or distributor abroad and an end-user in Canada. However, a sales transaction between a foreign manufacturer or  distributor and an affiliate (e.g., parent or subsidiary) or an unrelated distributor in Canada, which in turn sells or leases the merchandise to an end-user, is also covered by this provision. In this instance, the Canadian enterprise selling or leasing to the merchandise to an end-user, is also covered by this provision. In this instance, the Canadian enterprise selling or leasing to the Mexico to provide such services.

Where lease arrangements are involved, it is the initial cross-border transaction which must have involved a sale. The lease arrangement between the Canadian purchaser and an end user is covered as long the equipment remains the property of the  original purchaser and the sales, warranty or service agreement is still in effect.

While NAFTA only provides for after-sales situations, the general provision for business visitors R187, under which this section of NAFTA is implemented) allows individuals to enter pursuant to both sales and lease agreements.

2.6.7 What is third party service?
  • Third party service occurs when a seller located outside Canada (in the U.S. or Mexico or in another country) contracts the after-sales servicing to another firm (a third party). The third party must be established in the U.S. or Mexico.
  • There must be clear wording in the sales agreement that specifies that a third party will perform the installation, warranty or service work. Unless such wording exists, there is no evidence that the third party service is incidental to the sale. However, the firm need not be named in the agreement, as it may take some time for the firm to be identified.
2.6.8 What documentation must the person present to support the application?

A person must present the following documentation:

  • proof of American or Mexican citizenship; and
  • copies of the original sales agreement, and warranty or service agreement, including extensions, which clearly support the purpose of entry.

The warranty or service contract must be incidental to, or connected to the sale of commercial or industrial equipment or machinery, including computer software.

It does not mean that a warranty or service agreement must have the same date as the sales agreement. Particularly with third party service, it may take a number of months after the sale before the company installing or servicing the machinery is identified  and sub-contracted.

The initial warranty or service agreement may be extended provided that the sales agreement, or initial warranty or service agreement contained a provision allowing for the extension. The after- sales service, therefore, continues to be contracted as part of the sale of the equipment or machinery, or computer software.

2.6.9 What if a person is unable to provide documentation?

Before refusing entry based on the lack of documentation, every effort should be made to allow documentation to be provided (e.g., by fax) from the company in Canada or the person’s employer in the U.S. or Mexico.

The requirement for documentation has been imposed in order to clearly establish that the proposed activity is incidental or connected to the sale of the equipment or machinery or computer software. The other parties to the agreement impose the same requirements.

2.6.10 Does the NAFTA affect any requirements for licensing or certification with respect to installation and servicing activities?

No. The NAFTA does not relieve after-sales service personnel, or any other business person, from the obligation to comply with municipal, regional, provincial/territorial, or other federal requirements where these apply.

The grant of entry indicates only that the person complies with the requirements of the Act and Regulations and with the provisions of Chapter 16 of the NAFTA.

2.6.11 When should a Visitor Record be issued to a person entering to perform after-sales service?

Where entry is sought for a period (on-the-job) of longer than two days, a Visitor Record is to be issued to after-sales service personnel. The Visitor Record should be notated “no hands-on work allowed†and be coded FTA or 054.

A Visitor Record serves to facilitate and to control. It is a useful mechanism for providing information to the person entering concerning the activities that are allowed in Canada. The location(s), as well as the name of the company in Canada, should be  indicated on the document.

2.7 Appendix 1603.A.1 – Business visitors (amended)

Amended to include interpretive notes - the official text of Appendix 1603.A.1.

The term “commercial transactionâ€, found in some provisions in Appendix 1603.A.1 may be described as any act, within the confines of the law, which is performed expressly to derive a profit. A “commercial transaction†refers only to discussions and negotiations respecting the sale, purchase, marketing, distribution, advertisement, procurement, transmission, transportation or packaging of goods or services.

Research and design

Technical, scientific and statistical researchers conducting independent research or research for an enterprise located in the U.S. or Mexico.

Growth, manufacture and production

Harvester owner supervising a harvesting crew authorized to enter Canada under applicable law.

  • “Harvester†refers to a machine used for gathering agricultural crops, such as, grains, fruits and vegetables.
  • “Supervising†does not include hands-on work.
  • “Applicable law†refers to Human Resources Centre validation and work permit documentation.

Purchasing and production management personnel conducting commercial transactions for an enterprise located in the U.S. or Mexico.

Marketing

Market researchers and analysts conducting independent research or analysis or research or analysis for an enterprise located in the U.S. or Mexico.

Trade fair and promotional personnel attending a trade convention.

  • Where the business of the convention involves sales rather than simple promotion, the provisions under Sales apply.
  • Organizers of trade fairs whose exhibitors are wholly of American or Mexican origin may be granted entry under this provision.
Sales
  • Sales representatives and agents taking orders or negotiating contracts for goods or services for an enterprise located in the U.S. or Mexico but not delivering goods or providing services.
  • Sales representatives and agents cannot sell Canadian-made goods or services provided by a Canadian.
  • This provision allows persons to sell to the general public, provided that the goods or services are not delivered or available to the buyer at the time of sale (on the same business trip). The seller may only take orders for the goods or enter into contracts for the services.
  • Buyers purchasing for an enterprise located in the U.S. or Mexico.
Distribution
  • Transportation operators transporting goods or passengers to Canada from the U.S. or Mexico, or loading and transporting goods or passengers from Canada, with no unloading in Canada, to the U.S. or Mexico.
  • In the NAFTA, a “transportation operator†means a natural person [human being as opposed to a corporate “person†(company)], other than a tour bus operator, including relief personnel accompanying or following to join,  necessary for the operation of a vehicle for the duration of a trip. (See the General Service provision for information on tour  bus operators.)
  • This provision includes those persons necessary for the operation of a land transportation conveyance used to transport goods and/or passengers. Persons covered by the provision include the driver and other persons on the vehicle providing services that support the moving operation of the vehicle (for instance, persons providing services to passengers and persons providing services necessary for the movement of the conveyance).
  • The parties to the NAFTA have agreed that while pilot-vehicle drivers cannot be defined under the Distribution provision of Appendix 1603.A.1, their entry should nonetheless be facilitated. Persons operating highway pilot vehicles (vehicles leading and following trucks transporting over-size loads or hazardous cargo) can be authorized to enter Canada as a member of a crew, pursuant to R186(s) provided the foreign pilot-vehicle driver is accompanying a foreign-owned and foreign-registered vehicle. Ownership of the pilot vehicle is not relevant. This is consistent with the U.S. interpretation of pilot-vehicle drivers entering the U.S. from Canada.
  • Taxi-drivers and passenger-van operators may enter to pick-up passengers for delivery to the U.S. pursuant to an oral or written contract for services, provided that all passengers picked up are disembarked only in the U.S.
  • Although truck drivers involved in international hauling of goods should not normally become involved in the loading or unloading of cargo, there are instances where it is acceptable (e.g., in non-warehouse situations and for cargo such as furniture, chemicals, livestock and building materials). Thus, in special circumstances, particularly involving load safety, the provision also allows the driver, including a relay driver, and the other persons described to participate in the loading and unloading of goods.
  • The provision does not apply to a person whose only or main job duty is to load or unload the vehicle. Thus, the “crew†of a moving van, other than a driver, is not covered. Nor is a helper on a delivery truck covered by the provision (for instance, a helper on a truck delivering large appliances from a store in an American border town to a Canadian customer).
  • An American or Mexican truck driver may load goods in the U.S. or Mexico, then deliver partial loads at several locations in Canada. An American or Mexican driver may also pick-up goods in Canada at one or more locations and take them to the U.S. or Mexico. The American or Mexican driver may combine any or all of these pick-ups and deliveries in one trip as long as the goods picked up in Canada have a final destination in the U.S. or Mexico and are not delivered to another Canadian location. Cabotage, which is pick-up and delivery of the same goods between one location in Canada and another, is not allowed.
  • A bus driver may transport passengers in the same way that truck drivers may transport goods. As long as the trip originates or terminates in the U.S. or Mexico, the bus driver may take the bus to one or several Canadian locations and disembark or board passengers along the way as long as no individuals both join and leave the bus while it is in Canada.
  • Relay drivers (drivers who drive a portion or portions of a route) are also covered by this provision. A relay truck or bus driver need not enter Canada on the truck or bus. A relay driver may enter Canada within a reasonable time before or after the  truck or bus enters.
  • U.S. customs brokers entering Canada to perform brokerage duties relating to the export of goods from Canada to or through the U.S.
  • Customs brokers providing consulting services regarding the facilitation of the import or export of goods.

Note: This provision covers American and Mexican customs brokers travelling to Canada to consult and not to provide brokerage services. 

After-sales service

Installers, repair and maintenance personnel, and supervisors, possessing specialized knowledge essential to a seller’s contractual obligation, performing services or training workers to perform services, pursuant to a warranty or other service  contract incidental to the sale of commercial or industrial equipment or machinery, including computer software, purchased from an enterprise located outside Canada, during the life of the warranty or service agreement.

General service
  • Professionals engaging in a business activity at a professional level in a profession set out in Appendix 1603.D.1.
  • Management and supervisory personnel engaging in a commercial transaction for an enterprise located in the U.S. or Mexico.
  • Financial services personnel (insurers, bankers or investment brokers) engaging in commercial transactions for an enterprise located in the U.S. or Mexico.
  • Public relations and advertising personnel consulting with business associates, or attending or participating in conventions.

Note: “Business associates†refers to colleagues or clients.

  • Tourism personnel (tour and travel agents, tour guides or tour operators) attending or participating in conventions or conducting a tour that has begun in the U.S. or Mexico.

Note: Tourism personnel and tour participants must congregate at a point in the U.S. or Mexico and travel as a group when entering Canada. Tourism personnel wishing to use Canada as a base and seeking entry to conduct tours from within Canada are subject to the LMIA process. 

  • Tour bus operators entering Canada:
    • with a group of passengers on a bus tour that has begun in, and will return to the U.S. or Mexico;
    • to meet a group of passengers on a bus tour that will end, and the predominant portion of which will take place, in the U.S. or Mexico; or 
    • with a group of passengers on a bus tour to be unloaded in Canada, and returning to the U.S. or Mexico with no passengers, or reloading with the group for transportation to the U.S. or Mexico. 

Note:

  • In the NAFTA, a “tour bus operator†means a natural person, including relief personnel accompanying or following to join, necessary for the operation of a tour bus for the duration of a trip. 
  • A foreign tour bus operator may be authorized to enter Canada as a business visitor for a tour of one or several Canadian locations as long as the trip originates and/or terminates in the U.S. or Mexico. While passengers may be boarded or  dropped at a location in Canada, no individuals may both join and leave the bus while it is in Canada. 
  • If a tour originates in Canada (i.e., a bus enters Canada to pick up passengers), the predominant portion of the tour must then take place in the U.S. or Mexico in order to preserve the international nature of the tour. Passengers may be returned to Canada following the tour which has taken place predominantly in the U.S. or Mexico. 
  • Tours that originate in Canada and take place predominantly in Canada, with a minimum time spent in the U.S. or Mexico, do not qualify under NAFTA even if the bus crosses the international boundary during the course of the tour. Operators of  such a tour would not be admissible as “business visitorsâ€. 
  • As well, foreign tour bus operators and transportation operators are still prohibited from conducting “point to point†service (i.e., “cabotageâ€) within Canada - e.g., they cannot pick up passengers in Canada when the final destination of those passengers is another location in Canada. For instance, while an American tour bus operator is allowed to pick up from and return passengers to Canada, specifically for a tour which will take place predominantly in the U.S., the tour bus operator cannot pick up and drop off additional passengers in Canada on his way to the U.S. or when returning from the U.S. following the tour. 
  • Relay drivers (drivers who drive a portion or portions of a route) are also covered by this provision. A relay tour bus driver need not enter Canada on the tour bus. A relay driver may enter Canada within a reasonable time before or after the tour bus enters. 
  • Translators or interpreters performing services as employees of an enterprise located in the U.S. or Mexico.

3.1 What requirements apply to professionals?

The following requirements apply:
  • citizenship of the U.S. or Mexico;
  • profession identified in Appendix 1603.D.1;
  • qualification to work in that profession (degree or certification in a related educational program);
  • pre-arranged employment with a Canadian employer;
  • provision of professional level services in the field of qualification as indicated in the Appendix; and
  • compliance with existing immigration requirements for temporary entry.

3.2 What is Appendix 1603.D.1?

Appendix 1603.D.1, a list of over 60 occupations, is the mechanism by which selected professionals can enter Canada to provide their services. The Appendix is a complete list and cannot be interpreted. Generally, if an occupation does not appear on the list, it is not a profession as defined by Appendix 1603.D.1. However, officers should allow for alternative job titles in instances where the job duties are interchangeable. This can be confirmed by referring to the National Occupational Classification (NOC). The footnotes contained in Appendix 1603.D.1 form part of the Appendix as it appears in the NAFTA. Notes in italics were added to assist officers in understanding the requirements for the Professionals category generally and some individual professions (e.g.,  management consultant). The Minimum Education Requirements and Alternative Credentials indicated for each profession are minimum criteria for entry and do not necessarily reflect the educational requirements, accreditation or licensing necessary to practice a profession in Canada. Professionals can also be authorized to enter Canada as business visitors (General Service provision of Appendix 1603.A.1) when they are not seeking to enter the labour market (meet criteria applicable to business visitors) but will be performing activities such  as soliciting business, consulting, providing advice and meeting clients.

3.3 Where can a professional apply for a work permit?

Facilitated entry under the NAFTA allows a professional to apply at a POE. An application can also be made at a visa office before departing for Canada. U.S. and Mexican citizens can also apply for professional status in Canada, having been authorized to enter Canada as temporary residents [R199].

3.4 What documentation must a professional present to support an application?

A professional must present the following documentation:
  • proof of American or Mexican citizenship;
  • confirmation of pre-arranged employment provided by:
    • a signed contract with a Canadian enterprise, or
    • evidence of an offer of employment from a Canadian employer, or
    • a letter from the American or Mexican employer on whose behalf the service will be provided to the Canadian enterprise;
  • documentation which provides the following information:
    • the proposed employer in Canada;
    • the profession for which entry is sought;
    • details of the position (title, duties, duration of employment, arrangements as to payment; and
    • the educational qualifications or alternative credentials required for the position; and
  • evidence that the person has at least the Minimum Education Requirements and Alternative Credentials listed in Appendix 1603.D.1 (copies of degrees, diplomas, professional licences, accreditation or registration, etc).
Employment in the Professionals category must be pre-arranged with the Canadian employer. In this context, the Canadian employer may be an enterprise as defined in section 1.10 or an individual. The following are examples of pre-arranged services and do not preclude other arrangements as long as the professional is not self-employed in Canada:
  • an employee-employer relationship with a Canadian enterprise; or
  • a contract between the professional and a Canadian enterprise; or
  • a contract between the professional’s American or Mexican employer and a Canadian enterprise.
The Professionals category does not allow self-employment in Canada (i.e., “hanging-out a shingle†to solicit business in the Canadian labour market). A person who wishes to be self- employed in Canada should consider making an application under another category such as Trader or Investor. However, an American or Mexican citizen who is self-employed outside Canada is not barred from the Professional category, provided the services to be rendered in Canada are pre- arranged with a Canadian employer. The Canadian employer must be separate from the applicant seeking entry as a Professional. This means that if the Canadian enterprise offering a contract or employment to the applicant is a sole proprietorship operated by that applicant, then entry cannot be granted under the Professionals category; further if the Canadian enterprise is legally distinct from the applicant (i.e., a corporation with a separate legal entity) but is substantially controlled by the applicant, entry as a Professional must also be refused. In order to determine if an enterprise is substantially controlled, the following factors must be taken into account:
  • whether the applicant has established the business;
  • whether the applicant has primary, sole, or de facto control of the business;
  • whether the applicant is the primary, sole, or de facto owner of the business;
  • whether the applicant is the primary, sole, or de facto recipient of income of the business.
When a professional applies for a renewal of a work permit, the following activities may indicate that the individual has been self-employed in Canada:
  • incorporation of a company in Canada expressly for the purpose of the business person being self-employed (incorporating does not automatically signify self-employment; the motives for incorporation need to be examined before making a  determination);
  • initiation of communications (e.g., “job hunting†by direct mail or by advertising);
  • responding to advertisements for the purpose of obtaining employment or contracts; or
  • establishing an office which serves as a way to advertise (i.e., a “sign or a shingle†outside the door).
The following activities do not constitute self-employment:
  • responding to unsolicited inquiries about service which the professional may be able to perform; or
  • establishing an office from which to deliver pre-arranged service to clients.
A professional must be entering Canada to provide professional level services in the field of qualification: That is, the professional must be entering to work in an occupation described in Appendix 1603.D.1, for which they are qualified. In making this determination, both the qualification of the individual and the position in Canada must be considered. The duties of the profession that the business person intends to practice in Canada must conform to the job duties of the profession. For instance, an accountant must be seeking to enter Canada as an accountant and not as a bookkeeper, which is not an occupation covered in Appendix 1603.D.1. Alternatively, a bookkeeper cannot be authorized to enter Canada to work as an accountant unless the applicant is also qualified as an accountant as indicated in the Minimum Education Requirements and Alternative Credentials of Appendix 1603.D.1. Additionally, to be authorized to enter Canada under the Professionals category, a professional entering Canada to be a corporate executive must be coming to work in their field of qualification, i.e. an engineer, or the details of the position requirements and job duties of a specific profession are integral to the job. The applicant must meet the qualifications indicated in the Minimum Education Requirements and Alternative Credentials of Appendix 1603.D.1. These qualifications represent only a minimum to permit entry and do not necessarily indicate the level of qualification required to actually work in that profession in Canada. It is not the role of immigration to determine whether or not the applicant has the necessary license or registration to practice a profession in Canada. The employer in Canada and the professional are responsible to ensure that such requirements are met before employment commences. In the case of nurses, however, they are required to hold the appropriate provincial license before they can be granted Professional status. Officers may facilitate their entry (e.g., as a business visitor) to permit them to obtain the appropriate licence, providing they can demonstrate that they have initiated steps towards achieving that objective. In instances where a baccalaureate degree is required, the degree must be in the specific field or in a closely related field. Baccalaureate degrees (or licenciatura) need not have been obtained in colleges or universities in the U.S., Mexico or Canada, whereas post secondary diplomas or certificates should have been earned in one of the three NAFTA countries. It is possible for a professional to be working in Canada on more than one contract at a time. Information on each employer must be included on the work permit.

3.5 What training functions are permitted for professionals?

Professionals can enter Canada to provide training related to their profession, including conducting seminars. The training session must be pre-arranged with a Canadian employer and the subject matter must be at the professional level. Entry does not allow seminar leaders to engage in training that is not pre-arranged with a Canadian employer. The training must form part of the professional training or development of the participants and must be related to their job duties.

3.6 What documents are issued?

Persons who qualify in the Professionals category may issued a work permit pursuant to R204(a), T23.

3.7 How long can a work permit be issued and can it be extended?

Initial work permits can be granted for durations of up to three years. Extensions can also be issued in increments of up to three years with no limit on the number of extensions providing the individual continues to comply with the requirements for professionals. Officers must be satisfied that the employment is still “temporary†and that the applicant is not using NAFTA entry as a means of circumventing normal immigration procedures.

3.8 Appendix 1603.D.1 – Professionals (amended)

Amended to include interpretive notes - the official text of Appendix 1603.D.1 is available.

List of eligible professions under the NAFTA Professionals category

4.1 What requirements apply to intra-company transferees?

The following requirements apply:

  • citizenship of the U.S. or Mexico;
  • seeking employment in an executive or managerial capacity or one involving “specialized knowledgeâ€;
  • transferring to an enterprise that has a qualifying relationship with the enterprise in which he or she is currently employed;
  • enterprises in the U.S. or Mexico and in Canada have a parent, branch, subsidiary or affiliate relationship;
  • continuous employment, in a similar position outside Canada, for at least one year (full-time) in the previous three-year period from the date of initial application; and
  • compliance with existing immigration requirements for temporary entry.

The temporary entry provisions of the NAFTA are to be used in addition to the general entry provisions governing temporary foreign workers.

4.2 Where can an intra-company transferee apply for a work permit?

Facilitated entry under the NAFTA allows an intra-company transferee to make an application at the POE. An application can also be made at a visa office before departing for Canada.

U.S. and Mexican citizens can also apply for intra-company transferee status in Canada, having been authorized to enter Canada as visitors (R199).

4.3 What documentation must an intra-company transferee present to support an application?

An intra-company transferee must present:

  • proof of American or Mexican citizenship;
  • confirmation that the foreign national is currently employed by the enterprise outside of Canada;
  • confirmation that the person has been employed continuously outside of Canada by the enterprise for one year (full-time) within the three-year period immediately preceding the initial date of application (see tip);
  • outline of the applicant’s current position in an executive, or managerial capacity or one involving specialized knowledge, i.e., position, title, place in the organization, job description;
  • in the case of “specialized knowledgeâ€, evidence that the person has such knowledge and that the position in Canada requires such knowledge;
  • outline of the position in Canada, i.e., position, title, place in the organization, job description;
  • indication of intended duration of stay; and
  • description of the relationship between the enterprise in Canada and the enterprise in the U.S. or Mexico.

Officers may request tangible proof to establish the relationship between the Canadian and American or Mexican organizations.

Tip: If the applicant has not had full-time work experience with the foreign company, the officer should consider other factors before refusing the applicant solely on this basis, such as the following: 

  • Number of years of work experience with the foreign company;
  • The similarity of the positions. For example, is the applicant coming to work for a short period of time versus coming from a part-time position to a full-time long-term position?
  • The extent of the part-time position (i.e., 2 days/week versus 4 days/week)
  • Does it appear to be an abuse of the ICT provision?

In order to qualify in the intra-company transferee category, a business enterprise “is or will be doing business†in both Canada and the business person’s home country, the U.S. or Mexico.

Note: “Doing business†means regularly, systematically, and continuously providing goods and/ or services by a parent, branch, subsidiary, or affiliate in Canada and the U.S., or Mexico, as the case may be. It does not include the mere presence of an agent or office in Canada or in the U.S. or Mexico. For instance, a company with no employees which exists in name only and is established for the express purpose of facilitating the entry of intra-company transferees would not qualify. 

An applicant seeking entry to open a new office on behalf of the American or Mexican enterprise may also qualify, having established that the enterprise in Canada is expected to support a managerial or executive position or, in the case of specialized  knowledge, is expected to be doing business. Factors such as the ownership or control of the enterprise, the premises of the enterprise, the investment committed, the organizational structure, the goods or services to be provided and the viability of the American or Mexican operation should be considered.

Intra-company transferees may be authorized to enter Canada for short term assignments and may divide work between Canada and the U.S. or Mexico.

In assessing an application as an intra-company transferee under the NAFTA, the general provisions which deal with intra-company transferees (R205(a), C12) may also be considered .

4.4 What are an affiliate, a branch, an enterprise, a parent and a subsidiary?

Affiliate means:

  • one of two subsidiaries, both of which are owned and controlled by the same parent or individual; or
  • one of two legal entities, owned and controlled by the same group of individuals, each individual owning and controlling approximately the same share or proportion of each company. 

Branch is an operating division or office of the same organization housed in a different location.

Enterprise is "any entity constituted or organized under applicable law, whether or not for profit and whether privately or publicly owned including any corporation trust, partnership, sole proprietorship, joint venture or other association". 

Parent means a firm, corporation or other legal entity which has subsidiaries.

Subsidiary refers to a firm, a corporation, or other legal entity of which a parent owns:

  • directly or indirectly, half or more than half of the entity and controls the entity; or
  • owns, directly or indirectly, 50% of a 50-50 joint venture and has equal control and veto power over the entity; or
  • owns directly or indirectly, less than half of the entity, but in fact controls the entity.

4.5 What is “executive capacity�

“Executive capacity†refers to a position in which the employee primarily:

  • directs the management of the organization or a major component or function of the organization;
  • establishes the goals and policies of the organization, component, or function;
  • exercises wide latitude in discretionary decision-making; and
  • receives only general supervision or direction from higher level executives, the board of directors, or stockholders of the organization. 

An executive does not generally perform duties necessary in the production of a product or in the delivery of a service. In smaller businesses, the title of the position may not be sufficient to establish that a position is managerial or executive. For  example, an architect who incorporates a business and hires a secretary and a draughtsman is not automatically considered to be  holding an executive or managerial position. In order to qualify as a manager or executive as described in the intra-company  transferee category, the architect must be engaging in managerial or executive duties rather than purely architectural ones. 

4.6 What is “managerial capacity�

“Managerial capacity†refers to a position in which the employee primarily:

  • manages the organization, or a department, subdivision, function, or component of the organization;
  • supervises and controls the work of other supervisory, professional, or managerial employees, or manages an essential function within the organization, or a department or subdivision of the organization; 
  • has the authority to hire and fire or recommend those, as well as other, personnel actions (such as promotion and leave authorization); if no other employee is directly supervised, functions at a senior level within the organization hierarchy or  with respect to the function managed; and 
  • exercises discretion over the day-to-day operations of the activity or function for which the employee has the authority.

A first-line supervisor is not considered to be acting in a managerial capacity unless the employees supervised are professional.

A manager does not primarily perform tasks required in production of a product or in the delivery of a service.

In smaller businesses, the title of the position may not be sufficient to establish that a position is managerial or executive (refer to section 4.5, What is “executive capacityâ€?). 

4.7 What is “specialized knowledge�

To have specialized knowledge an ICT applicant would be required to demonstrate, on a balance of probabilities, a high degree of both proprietary knowledge and advanced expertise. 

Proprietary knowledge alone, or advanced expertise alone, does not qualify the applicant under this exemption.

See guidance for officers assessing qualifying job positions for Specialized Knowledge workers under the General Provisions (C12 exemption). 

Note: The use of the term “specialized knowledge†applicable to the after-sales service personnel of the business visitor category (Appendix 1603.A.1) differs. For after-sales service, specialized knowledge reflects special training which raises the level of  expertise beyond hands-on building and construction work. 

4.8 What documents are issued?

Persons who qualify as intra-company transferees are to be issued a work permit pursuant to R204, T24.

4.9 How long can a work permit be issued and can it be extended? 

A work permit issued at the time of entry can have a maximum duration of three years. However, individuals authorized to enter Canada to open an office or to be employed in a new office should be issued an initial permit for a maximum period of one year. 

Extensions can be granted for a duration of up to two years if the person continues to comply with the requirements for intra-company transferees.

The category of intra-company transferees is the only NAFTA category to have a “cap†imposed on the total duration of employment. The total period of stay for a person employed in an executive or managerial capacity may not exceed seven years. The total period of stay for a person employed in a position requiring specialized knowledge may not exceed five years. 

Note: For these cases, a minimum period of one year of full-time employment outside Canada must pass after the time cap before applicants are eligible to be issued a new work permit in these categories. 

Intra-company transferees are not necessarily required to re-locate to Canada; however, they are expected to actually occupy a position within the Canadian branch of the company. There should be a clear employer-employee relationship with the Canadian company, and the Canadian company should be directing the day-to-day activities of the foreign worker. This is especially important for workers working at client sites and not at the parent, branch, affiliate, or subsidiary. 

Alternatively, officers should examine whether the applicant might better be classified as a business visitor, which includes provision of after-sales service. (See Business visitors, section 2 of this Appendix.) 

Issuance of short-term work permits for specific projects is permissible, whether the project is taking place at the company premises in Canada or at a client site (generally seen as applicable for persons the company needs to transfer for their specialized knowledge). Long-term work permits in the intra-company transferee category should not be issued for service personnel living outside Canada whom the company wishes to parachute into a client site of the international company on an as-needed basis. 

Traders and investors

An applicant can be granted trader or investor status, but not both. If an applicant is unsure as to the applicable status or wishes to be considered under both, all sections of the application form must be completed. (Refer to sections 5.2 and 6.2 for information concerning the application form.). 

  •  

5.1 What requirements apply to traders?

The following requirements apply:

  • applicant has American or Mexican citizenship;
  • the employing enterprise has American or Mexican nationality;
  • activities involve substantial trade in goods or services;
  • trade is principally between either the U.S. or Mexico, and Canada;
  • position is supervisory or executive, or involves essential skills; and
  • compliance with existing immigration requirements for temporary entry.

5.2 Where can a trader apply for a work permit?

An application should be submitted at a visa office.

The Regulations allow a citizen of the U.S. or Mexico to apply for a work permit either at a POE (R198) or at a visa office. However, due to the complexity of the application and for reasons of client service, program consistency and reciprocity, an application for a work permit for entry as a trader should be submitted at a visa office. Because of reciprocal treatment offered to Canadians, U.S. and Mexican citizens who are granted temporary resident status can also apply for trader status from within Canada (R199). 

A person who wishes to submit an application at a POE is to be counselled to submit the application at a visa office. Upon receiving a request for extension, the file from the issuing office should be requested to compare the original information and  documentation with that presented in support of the extension request. 

Persons applying for trader status must complete an Application for Trader/Investor Status [IMM 5321 (PDF, 161.76 KB)] in addition to the application for a work permit. 

5.3 What criteria must be met?

Nationality

The applicant is an American or a Mexican citizen and the employing enterprise to or from which the applicant is coming has American or Mexican nationality. 

American or Mexican nationality means that the individual or corporate persons who own at least 50 percent interest in the entity (directly or by stock), must hold American or Mexican citizenship. The place of incorporation of an enterprise is not an indicator of nationality. Nationality is indicated by ownership. A letter attesting to ownership from a corporate secretary or a company lawyer may be used in determining nationality. In cases where an entity’s shares are sold exclusively on a stock exchange of the country of incorporation, nationality can be presumed to the same. In cases of a multinational entity whose shares are exchanged in more than one country, then the applicant should submit evidence that the entity meets the nationality requirement. 

A citizen of the U.S. or Mexico who is a permanent resident of Canada does not qualify to bring an employee into Canada under trader status. Similarly, shares of a corporation or other business organization owned by a citizen of the U.S. or Mexico who is a  permanent resident of Canada cannot be considered in determining majority ownership to qualify the company for bringing in an employee as a trader. 

The applicant may be trading on their own behalf or as an agent of a person or an organization engaged in trade principally between Canada and the U.S. or Mexico. 

Substantial trade

The applicant is seeking temporary entry to carry on substantial trade in goods or services principally between Canada and the U.S. or Mexico. Over 50 percent of the total volume of international trade conducted by the entity must be between Canada and the U.S. or Mexico. However, the duties of the individual applicant need not be similarly divided. 

Trade means the exchange, purchase, or sale of goods and/or services. Goods are tangible commodities or merchandise having intrinsic value, excluding money, securities, and negotiable instruments. Services are economic activities whose outputs are other than tangible goods. Such activities include, but are not limited to international banking, insurance, transportation, communications and data processing, advertising, accounting, design and engineering, management consulting and tourism. 

“Substantial trade†is determined by the volume of trade conducted as well as the monetary value of the transactions. Numerous transactions, although each may be small in value, might establish the requisite continuing course of international trade. Officers must be satisfied that the business person’s predominant activity in Canada is international trading. 

Trade between the U.S. or Mexico and Canada must already be in existence as evidenced by completed sales or binding contracts that call for the immediate exchange of goods or services. An applicant cannot qualify as a Trader for the purpose of searching for a trading relationship. 

Capacity

The applicant’s job duties in Canada will be employed in a capacity that is supervisory, or executive or involves essential skills. 

The supervisory or executive element of the position must be a principal function of the duties while working in Canada. A supervisor is a manager who is primarily responsible for directing, controlling and guiding subordinate employees and who does not routinely engage in hands-on activities. Note that a first line supervisor would not generally meet these requirements. An executive is in a primary position in the organization with significant policy authority. 

Indicators of supervisory or executive capacity are:

  • position title;
  • place in the organizational structure;
  • job duties;
  • degree of ultimate control and responsibility over operations;
  • number and skill levels of immediately subordinate employees over whom supervision is exercised;
  • level of pay commensurate with a senior position; and
  • qualifying executive or supervisory experience.

The size of the entity will dictate which indicators are more significant.

Essential skills or services are special qualifications that are vital to the effectiveness of the firm’s Canadian operations. In general, essential skills are possessed by specialists, not ordinary skilled workers. The essential employee is not required to have  been previously employed by the American or Mexican enterprise unless the skills required can only be obtained through working for that enterprise. 

In assessing essential skills, officers must be satisfied, based upon a consideration of the following factors, that trader status is warranted: 

  • the degree of proven expertise of the applicant in the area of specialization;
  • the uniqueness of the special skills. The availability of workers in Canada to perform such work, not as an LMIA, but rather as a measure of the degree of the specialization or uniqueness of the skill; 
  • the function of the job;
  • the period of training required to perform the contemplated duties; and
  • a salary commensurate with the special expertise. The salary of an applicant with essential skills should be significantly higher than that of a skilled labourer in the relevant occupation. 

A highly trained technician may sometimes qualify as having essential skills. A highly trained or specially qualified technician employed by a firm to train or to supervise personnel employed in manufacturing, maintenance and repair functions may be granted trader status even though some manual duties may be performed, provided that the firm cannot obtain the services of a qualified Canadian technician. For example, a qualified technician coming to perform warranty repairs on intricate and complex products sold in trade between Canada and the U.S. or Mexico can be granted trader status if the Canadian entity establishes that it cannot obtain the services of a qualified Canadian technician. It is expected that the firm in Canada will, within a reasonable period of time, locate and train a Canadian as a highly skilled technician. The absence of an effective training program for a Canadian is sufficient reason to refuse repeated requests for an American or a Mexican highly trained technician to occupy a position not requiring essential skills. 

5.4 What documents are issued?

Persons qualifying in the Trader category may be issued a work permit pursuant to R204; T21 should be used.

5.5 How long can a work permit be issued and can it be extended?

  • The initial work permit can have a maximum duration of one year.
  • Extensions should be granted for a duration of two years provided that all requirements described above continue to be met. 

An applicant’s expression of a definite intention to return to the U.S. or Mexico when trader status terminates will normally be accepted as sufficient evidence of temporary intent, unless there are indications to the contrary. 

Trader status would end upon the applicant taking another job, engaging in an activity which is not consistent with this status, closing down the business, etc. 

6.1 What requirements apply to investors?

The following requirements apply:

  • applicant has American or Mexican citizenship;
  • enterprise has American or Mexican nationality;
  • substantial investment has been made, or is actively being made;
  • applicant is seeking entry solely to develop and direct the enterprise;
  • if the applicant is an employee, position is executive or supervisory or involves essential skills; and
  • compliance with existing immigration measures applicable to temporary entry.

6.2 Where can an investor apply for a work permit?

An application should be submitted at a visa office.

The Regulations allow a citizen of the U.S. to apply for a work permit either at a POE (R198) or at a visa office. However, due to the complexity of the application and for reasons of client service, program consistency and reciprocity, an application for a work permit as an investor should be submitted at a visa office. Because of reciprocal treatment for Canadians, U.S. and Mexican citizens who are granted temporary resident status can also apply for investor status from within Canada (R199). 

A person who wishes to submit an application at a POE is to be counselled to submit the application at a visa office. Upon receiving a request for extension, the file from the issuing office should be requested to compare the original information and  documentation with that presented in support of the extension request. 

Persons applying for investor status must complete an Application for Trader/Investor status [IMM 5321 (PDF, 161.76 KB)] in addition to the application for an employment authorization. 

6.3 What criteria must be met?

  • The applicant is a citizen of the U.S. or Mexico and the enterprise or firm to which the applicant is coming has American or Mexican nationality. 

Note: American or Mexican nationality means that the individual or corporate persons who own at least 50 percent interest (directly or by stock) in the entity established in Canada must hold American or Mexican citizenship. Joint ventures and partnerships are limited to two parties. 

In parent-subsidiary situations, officers should consider the nationality of the corporate entity established in Canada.

A letter attesting to ownership from a corporate secretary or a company lawyer may be used in determining nationality.

The place of incorporation of an enterprise is not an indicator of nationality. Nationality is indicated by ownership.

  • The applicant is seeking temporary entry solely to develop and direct the operations of an enterprise in which the applicant has invested, or is actively in the process of investing, a substantial amount of capital. 

Note: This criterion does not apply to an employee of an investor

“Develop and direct“ means that the applicant should have controlling interest in the enterprise. An interest of 50 per cent or less usually will mean that the applicant does not have requisite control, particularly in smaller enterprises. An equal share of the investment, such as an equal partnership, generally does not give controlling investment in Canadian-based corporations. 

However, in cases of American and Mexican corporate investment in Canadian-based corporations, the focus should be less on an arithmetical formula and more on corporate practice, since control of half or less of the stock sometimes gives effective control. A joint venture may also meet the "develop and direct" requirement, provided that the American or Mexican corporation can demonstrate that it has, in effect, operational control. 

Investment involves placing funds or other capital assets at risk in the commercial sense in the hope of generating a profit or a return on the funds risked. If the funds are not subject to partial or total loss if investment fortunes reverse, then it is not an investment which can be used to support investor status. (Investor status could not, therefore, be extended to non-profit organizations). 

If the applicant is in the process of investing, mere intent to invest or prospective investment arrangements entailing no present commitment will not suffice. The applicant must be close to the start of actual business operations, not merely in the stage of signing contracts (which may be broken) or scouting for suitable locations and property. The investment funds must be irrevocably committed to the business. 

Whether an investment has been, or will be made, the applicant must demonstrate prior or present possession and control of the funds or other capital assets. 

Officers should assess the nature of the transaction to determine whether a particular financial arrangement may be considered an investment for the purpose of investor status. Following are some factors which may be considered in making a determination: 

  • Funds: Mere possession of uncommitted funds in a bank account would not qualify, whereas, a reasonable amount of cash  held in what is clearly a business bank account or similar fund used for routine business operations may be counted as investment funds. 
  • Indebtedness: Mortgage debt or commercial loans secured by the enterprise’s assets cannot count toward the investment as there is no requisite element of risk. Loans secured by the applicant’s own personal assets, such as a second mortgage on a home, or unsecured loans, such as a loan on the applicant’s personal signature, may be included since the applicant risks the funds in the event of business failure. 
  • Lease/rent payments: Payments in the form of leases or rents for property or equipment may be calculated toward the investment in an amount limited to the funds devoted to that item in any one month. However, the market value of the leased equipment is not representative of the investment and neither is the annual rental cost (unless it has been paid in advance) as these rents are generally paid from the current earnings of the business. 
  • Goods/equipment as investment: The amount spent for purchase of equipment and for inventory on hand may be calculated in the investment total. The value of goods or equipment transferred to Canada (such as factory machinery shipped to Canada to start or enlarge a plant) is considered an investment provided the applicant can demonstrate that the goods or machinery will be put, or are being put, to use in an ongoing commercial enterprise. 

There is no minimum dollar figure established for meeting the requirement of “substantial†investment. Substantiality is normally determined by using a “proportionality test†in which the amount invested is weighed against one of the following factors: 

  • the total value of the particular enterprise in question (determining proportion is a largely straightforward calculation involving the weighing of evidence of the actual value of an established business, i.e., purchase price or tax valuation,  against the evidence of the amount invested by the applicant); or 
  • the amount normally considered necessary to establish a viable enterprise of the nature contemplated. (This may be a less straightforward calculation. Officers will have to base the decision on reliable information on the Canadian business scene to determine whether the amount of the intended investment is reasonable for the type of business involved. Letters from chambers of commerce or statistics from trade associations may be reliable for this purpose.) 

Only the amount already invested or irrevocably committed for investment can be considered in determining substantiality.

The investment must be significantly proportional to the total investment. The total investment is the cost of an established business or money needed to establish a business. In businesses requiring smaller amounts of total investment, the investor must  contribute a very high percentage of the total investment, whereas in businesses of larger total investment, the percentage of the  investment may be much less. In applying the test, officers must first focus on the nature of the business to determine reasonably  the total amount of investment needed to establish such business. 

Clearly, the total amount of money needed to start a consulting service will be much less than to open an automobile manufacturing plant or even a restaurant. In the case of a consulting firm, it might be found that a total of $50,000 investment is necessary to become fully operational. In order to qualify as an investor, an applicant would have to invest a high percentage of the $50,000. For a total investment of $1 million, the investor might reasonably have to invest at least $500,000 to $600,000; whereas for a $10 million manufacturing plant, $2-3 million might suffice, based on the sheer magnitude of the dollar amount invested. (These examples are not intended to establish any set dollar figures, but are used only to demonstrate by example the application of the proportionality test.) 

The enterprise must be a real and active commercial or entrepreneurial undertaking which operates to produce some service or commodity for profit. It cannot be a paper organization or an idle, speculative investment held for potential appreciation in value. For instance, passive investment in developed or undeveloped real estate or stocks does not qualify. (Evidence that an applicant intends and has the ability to invest additional funds in the future in an enterprise may demonstrate that the business is, or will be, a viable commercial enterprise. A plan for future investment, expansion, and/or development is significant in meeting this criterion.) 

The objective of investor status is to promote productive investment in Canada. Therefore, an applicant is not entitled to this status if the investment, even if substantial, will return only enough income to provide a living for the applicant and family. 

There are various ways to assist in determining whether an enterprise is marginal, in the sense of only providing a livelihood for the applicant. For instance, an applicant may show that the investment will expand job opportunities locally or that it is adequate to ensure that the applicant’s primary function will not be that of a skilled or unskilled labourer. If the applicant has substantial income from other sources and does not rely on the investment enterprise to provide a living, the investment may be one of risk and not one of providing a mere livelihood. Therefore, the investment would not be in the marginal category. 

6.4 What criteria must be met to qualify to bring an employee to Canada in investor status?

Criteria applicable to the employer

To bring an employee to Canada in investor status, the nationality requirement must be met:

  • the prospective employer in Canada must be a citizen of the U.S. or Mexico who is maintaining investor status in Canada; or
  • if the prospective employer is a corporation or other business organization, the majority ownership must be held by citizens of the U.S. or Mexico who, if not residing in the U.S. or Mexico, are maintaining investor status in Canada. 

A citizen of the U.S. or Mexico who is a permanent resident of Canada does not qualify to bring an employee into Canada under investor status. 

Shares of a corporation or other business organization owned by a citizen of the U.S. or Mexico who is a permanent resident of Canada cannot be considered in determining majority ownership to qualify the company for bringing in an employee as an  investor. 

Criteria applicable to the employee

The applicant must be an American or Mexican citizen who qualifies in a supervisory or executive capacity or possesses skills essential to the firm’s operations in Canada. 

The supervisory or executive element of the position is a primary function. The supervisor is primarily responsible for directing, controlling and guiding subordinate employees and does not routinely engage in hands-on activities. (A first line supervisor would  not, as a general rule, qualify). An executive or manager is in a position in the organization with significant policy authority. 

Indicators of supervisory or executive or managerial capacity are:

  • position title;
  • place in the organizational structure;
  • job duties;
  • degree of ultimate control and responsibility over operations
  • number and skill levels of immediately subordinate employees over whom supervision is exercised;
  • level of pay; and
  • qualifying executive or supervisory experience.

The size of the Canadian office will dictate which indicators are more relevant.

Essential skills or services are special qualifications that are vital to the effectiveness of the firm’s Canadian operations over and above qualifications required of an ordinary skilled worker. 

An employee with essential skills is not required to have previously worked for the enterprise unless the skills required could only be acquired by working for the enterprise. 

Officers must be satisfied that, based upon a consideration of the following factors, investor status is warranted:

  • the degree of proven expertise of the applicant in the area of specialization;
  • the uniqueness of the special skills;
  • the length of experience and training with the firm;
  • the period of training required to perform the contemplated duties; and the salary that the special expertise can command. 

There are two exceptions to the application of the factors concerning essential skills:

New enterprises

  • investor status may be granted to an employee not possessing essential skills when the employee is needed for the start-up of a new enterprise; 
  • the employee and the company will have to demonstrate need, based upon familiarity with the American or Mexican operations of the firm; 
  • this provision usually applies where a firm established in the U.S. or Mexico seeks to use a skilled American or Mexican employee in the early stages of a Canadian investment; 
  • investor status will normally be granted for a period not to exceed one year;
  • this procedure is designed to assist new enterprises to establish themselves and to allow them a reasonable period of time to train a Canadian for a position not requiring essential skills. 
Highly trained technicians
  • a highly trained or specially qualified technician employed by a firm to train or supervise personnel employed in manufacturing, maintenance and repair functions may be granted investor status even though some manual duties may  be performed, provided that the firm cannot obtain the services of a qualified Canadian technician; 
  • the emphasis is on “highly trainedâ€. For example, a qualified technician coming to perform warranty repairs on intricate and complex products sold in trade between Canada and the U.S./Mexico can be granted investor status if the  employing firm establishes that it cannot obtain the services of a qualified Canadian technician. It is expected that the firm in Canada will, within a reasonable period of time, locate and train a Canadian as a highly skilled technician. 

The absence of an effective training program for a Canadian is sufficient reason to refuse repeated requests for an American or a Mexican worker to occupy a position requiring high technical skills. 

6.5 What documents are issued?

Persons qualifying in the Investor category may be issued a work permit pursuant to R204, T22.

6.6 How long can a work permit be issued and can it be extended?

A work permit issued at the time of entry can have a maximum duration of one year.

Extensions should be granted for a duration of two years provided that the requirements outlined above are met.

An applicant’s expression of a definite intention to return to the U.S. or Mexico when investor status terminates will normally be accepted as sufficient evidence of temporary intent unless there are indications to the contrary.

Investor status would end upon applicant taking another job, engaging in an activity which is not consistent with this status, closing down the business, etc. 

The immigration provisions of the NAFTA are of particular interest to Canadian, American and Mexican teachers who have been offered temporary appointments at the university, college, and seminary levels. The following is intended to provide information concerning the application of the temporary entry chapter of the NAFTA for university, college and seminary teachers. 

  • It reflects the desirability of facilitating temporary entry on a reciprocal basis for persons whose activity or profession is described in the chapter. 
  •  It recognizes the need to ensure border security and protect indigenous labour and permanent employment.

No. The new provisions enhance or expand the general or universal provisions which exist in each country. Thus, for American and Mexican teachers coming to Canada, the NAFTA augments the existing provisions respecting exchange professors, guest lecturers and visiting professors. (See Annex 1 for details of general provisions.) 

Canadian, American and Mexican teachers can now obtain a document authorizing employment to undertake a temporary appointment at a university, college, or seminary in one of the other countries simply by presenting at the POE a letter from the employer describing the temporary appointment. 

Note: Appendix 1603.D.1 of the NAFTA lists those professions whose members are eligible for facilitated entry to the other countries. Only those activities which are generally understood to be associated with the performance of a profession may be  undertaken by a person seeking to enter or to remain in Canada temporarily to practice the profession. 

Thus, a person entering to be employed temporarily as a university teacher can carry out the range of duties normally associated with that position. 

Yes. Persons who are not citizens but have immigration status as a legal permanent resident of the other countries do not have access to facilitated entry under the NAFTA. They do, however, continue to have access to each country through existing general or universal provisions governing the entry of temporary foreign workers. 

No. The immigration chapter of the NAFTA covers temporary entry only.

The NAFTA defines “temporary entry†as “...entry without the intent to establish permanent residence.†This definition is consistent with immigration law. It is adaptable to individual circumstances and it recognizes that the concept of temporary  entry cannot be based simply on a specific time limitation. 

The definition does not allow for open-ended temporary entry. The provisions of the NAFTA cannot be used as a mechanism to circumvent procedures applicable to permanent employment nor as a means to establish de facto permanent residence. 

Upon arrival at a POE, a work permit may be granted for the length of the contract up to a maximum of twelve months. If the appointment is for a period greater than twelve months, a renewal of the work permit must later be requested and obtained. (A person who is in possession of a valid work permit is eligible to apply for a renewed work permit, and should apply at least one month before the expiry of the work permit. An application can be downloaded from CIC’s website or from the Call Centre. 

Multiple renewals will not be approved routinely even though a lengthy appointment might have been indicated at the time of arrival in Canada. The longer the duration of temporary stay, the greater the onus will be on the individual, especially when requesting an extension of status, to satisfy an officer of temporary intent. 

Yes. Many temporary foreign workers in general are authorized to work temporarily in a permanent position that, for one reason or Yes. Many temporary foreign workers in general are authorized to work temporarily in a permanent position that, for one reason or 

The procedures which apply to permanent employment are unaffected by the NAFTA. The advertising procedure required as part  of the LMIA process continues for permanent appointments. 

On the other hand, the NAFTA prohibits, as a condition for temporary entry, “...prior approval procedures, petitions, labour certification tests, or other procedures of similar effect.†Service Canada labour certification is, therefore, prohibited for a temporary appointment. A hiring (advertising) process which is independent of a labour certification test or other procedure of similar effectFootnote* is permissible for a temporary appointment under the NAFTA. 

A university can institute a “Canadians-firstâ€Footnote** hiring policy and not be in conflict with provisions of Chapter 16 or any other provisions of the NAFTA. The university would simply be exerting its prerogative as an employer. 

Should a decision be made, though, to offer a temporary appointment to a teacher who is a U.S. or Mexican citizen, then that person’s entry to Canada and authorization to work will be facilitated through the provisions of Chapter 16 of the NAFTA. 

Return to footnote* A “procedure of similar effect†is an administrative or legal requirement which may have the consequence of delaying or preventing a person covered by Chapter 16 from engaging, or continuing to engage, in a covered  profession, occupation, or activity. It does not include the immigration procedures established by Canada, the U.S. or Mexico: 1) to implement the provisions of Chapter 16 of the NAFTA, 2) to ensure compliance with general entry requirements relating to public health, safety, and national security. 

Return to footnote** The term “Canadians-first†refers to citizens and permanent residents of Canada.

The university must offer the person permanent/indeterminate employment. The applicant can then apply for permanent residence, and benefit from receiving points for ‘arranged employment’. If they qualify as a skilled worker permanent resident, then a permanent residence visa will be issued.  

Teachers require work permits to teach temporarily in Canada at a university, college or seminary. An American or Mexican citizen can apply for a work permit at a Canadian POE and must provide the following documentation:

  • 1. evidence of citizenship (passport or birth certificate);
  • 2. a letter or signed contract from the institution providing full details of the temporary appointment including:
    • the nature of the position offered; 
    • arrangements for remuneration;
    • educational qualifications required; and
    • the duration of the appointment.
    • While not mandatory, for the purpose of further facilitating entry at the border, it is recommended that the letter or contract specify that “the offer of employment is for a temporary appointment consistent with the terms of the North  American Free Trade Agreementâ€; 
  • 3. evidence that the applicant holds at least a baccalaureate degree.

Applicants must, as well, be able to satisfy an immigration officer of general compliance with the requirements of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and Regulations, e.g., be in good health and have no criminal record. 

Note: There is a processing fee for a work permit.

As mentioned earlier, one of the fundamental principles of the immigration chapter of the NAFTA is reciprocity. While the procedures at a U.S. or Mexican POE may not be exactly the same as ours, Canadians will be subject to exactly the same criteria for facilitated temporary entry under the NAFTA. Canadians should contact a U.S. POE or consulate or Mexican consulate for full details. 

The NAFTA contains no provisions for a person to appeal a decision refusing entry because of non- compliance with entry requirements. In the event of a refusal to grant entry, officers will provide reasons for the refusal. 

Yes. The immigration chapter of the NAFTA provides for a consultation procedure involving the participation of immigration officials of Canada, the U.S. and Mexico. In practice these officials meet regularly to harmonize their respective NAFTA procedures and to resolve problems relating to the on-going implementation of the chapter. 

Code C22

Persons who are engaged by post-secondary educational institutions (e.g., universities, community colleges and similar institutions) as:

  • exchange professors coming to Canada on a reciprocal basis;
  • guest lecturers who are invited by a post-secondary institution to give a series of lectures which does not comprise a complete academic course and is for a period of less than one academic term or semester; 
  • persons coming as visiting professors for a period of not more than two academic years to take a position with a post-secondary institution and who retain their former position abroad (as this does not apply to Summer Student instruction, appropriate terms and conditions should be imposed). 

University teachers

The duties of a university teacher include:

  • teaching one or more subjects within a prescribed curriculum;
  • preparing and delivering lectures to students;
  • conducting seminars or laboratory sessions;
  • stimulating and guiding class discussions;
  • compiling bibliographies of specialized materials for outside reading assignment;
  • preparing and administering examinations and grading answer papers;
  • assigning and marking essays;
  • directing research programs of graduate students;
  • conducting research in a particular field of knowledge, and publishing findings in books or professional journals;
  • serving on faculty committees concerned with such matters as curriculum revision, academic planning and degree requirements; 
  • advising students on academic and other matters;
  • assisting students with the conduct of various scholarly, cultural and political clubs or societies;
  • providing professional consultative services to government, industry and private individuals;
  • attending regional and international conferences dealing with academic specializations; and
  • teaching as required in an adult education or university extension program, by means of correspondence courses or night classes. 

Teachers at this level usually specialize in one subject, or two or more related subjects.

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GATS

This section contains policy, procedures and guidance used by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada staff. It is posted on the Department’s website as a courtesy to stakeholders. 

Like the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), the temporary entry of business persons under the General Agreement on Trade in Services (GATS) can be facilitated without the need for a Labour Market Impact Assessment. In the area of temporary entry of individuals, Canada requested and offered access for three categories of business persons: business visitors, intra-company transferees and professionals. 

Both business visitors and intra-company transferees entering under GATS qualify under Canada’s generally applicable immigration rules: R186(a) and R205(a) C12. However, there are unique rules for the entry of professionals under GATS. These professionals may be granted work permits pursuant to R204, T33 if they meet the criteria outlined below. 

A GATS Professional is a person who seeks to engage, as part of a services contract obtained by a company in another Member nation, in an activity at a professional level in a profession set out below, provided that the person possesses the necessary  academic credentials and professional qualifications, which have been duly recognized, where appropriate, by the professional  association in Canada. The Professionals category is designed to facilitate the short-term entry of a limited list of professionals employed by service providers of Member nations, in those service sectors to which Canada has made commitments. 

Occupations covered

Group 1 includes six occupations: Engineers, Agrologists, Architects, Forestry professionals, Geomatics professionals and Land surveyors. 

Group 2 includes three occupations: Foreign legal consultants, Urban planners and Senior computer specialists. Professionals in this group are subject to additional requirements pertaining to the prospective enterprise in Canada and the foreign service provider. As well, limits exist for the number of persons allowed entry under specific projects. 

Gats professional occupations, together with minimum educational requirements, alternative credentials and other licensing requirements

Gats professional occupations, together with minimum educational requirements, alternative  credentials and other licensing requirements 

Engineer

Minimum educational requirement alternative credentials: 

Baccalaureate degreeFootnote*

Other requirements: 

Provincial licenceFootnote**

Agrologists

Minimum educational requirement alternative credentials: 

Baccalaureate degree in agriculture or related science plus four years of related experience

Other requirements: 

Licensing required in New Brunswick, Alberta & Quebec. Temporary licensing required in British Columbia.

Architects

Minimum educational requirement alternative credentials: 

Baccalaureate degree in architecture

Other requirements: 

Provincial licence and certificate required to practice

Forestry Professionals 

Minimum educational requirement alternative credentials: Baccalaureate degree in forestry management or forestry engineering, or a provincial licence 

Other requirements:

Licensing as a forester or forestry engineer is required in Alberta, British Columbia & Quebec.

Geomatics ProfessionalsFootnote*** 

Minimum educational requirement alternative credentials: Baccalaureate degree in surveying, geography or environmental sciences plus three years related experience. 

Land Surveyors 

Minimum educational requirement alternative credentials:Baccalaureate degree

Other requirements: 

Provincial licence

Foreign Legal Consultants  

Minimum educational requirement alternative credentials:Baccalaureate degree in law

Other requirements: 

Provincial licence

Foreign Legal Consultants 

Minimum educational requirement alternative credentials:Baccalaureate degree in law

Other requirements: 

Provincial licence

Urban Planners

Minimum educational requirement alternative credentials:Baccalaureate degree in urban planning

Other requirements:

Provincial licence

Senior Computer Specialists 

Minimum educational requirement alternative credentials: Graduate degreeFootnote**** in computer sciences or related discipline and ten years of experience in computer sciences. 

Footnote *

Baccalaureate means a degree from an accredited academic institution in Canada or equivalent.

Return to footnote*referrer

Footnote ** 

Provincial licence means any document issued by a provincial/territorial government or under its authority which permits a person to engage in a regulated activity or profession. 

Return to footnote**referrer

Footnote *** 

Geomatics Professionals must be working in aerial surveying or aerial photography.

Return to footnote***referrer

Footnote ****

Graduate degree means at least a Master’s degree from an accredited academic institution in Canada or equivalent. Academic equivalencies will be determined by the relevant equivalency services in Canada. 

Return to footnote****referrer

The time limit imposed is a maximum three months or 90 consecutive days within a twelve month period.

The applicant must be seeking entry pursuant to a signed contract between the foreign service provider and a Canadian service consumer, and must work in one of the service sectors listed above. 

Applicants must have their academic credentials and professional qualifications recognized by the professional association in Canada before entry can be granted and must have been granted a licence (where applicable). See paragraph on credential and licensing requirements below. 

Applicants must have their academic credentials and professional qualifications recognized by the professional association in Canada before entry can be granted and must have been granted a licence (where applicable). See paragraph on credential and licensing requirements below. 

Secondary employment is not permitted (prohibition on working for an employer who is not named on the authorization) and extension of the employment authorization as a GATS professional beyond the 90 days is not permitted. 

The applicant must meet the following criteria:

  • 1. Possess citizenship of a Member nation, or the right of permanent residence in Australia or New Zealand. Note that member nations (numbering 148 as of 2005) are listed on the World Trade Organization website. 
  • 2. Deliver a service pursuant to a signed contract between a Canadian service consumer and a service provider of a WTO member nation. In the case of foreign legal consultants, urban planners and senior computer specialists, the foreign service provider must not have a commercial presence in Canada; 
  • 3. Possess professional qualifications in an occupation identified in the chart above.
  • 4. NOT provide service in any of the following service sectors: education, health related services or recreational, culture and sports services. 
  • 5. Possess qualifications that have been recognized, where appropriate, by the professional association in Canada.
  • 6. Comply with existing immigration requirements for temporary entry, including TRV requirements.
  • 7. In the case of foreign legal consultants, urban planners and senior computer specialists, the employer in Canada must be engaged in substantive business. 
  • 8. In the case of senior computer specialists, a limit of ten entrants per project has been imposed.
  • 9. Entry is for a period of 90 days.

Personnel agencies:

Where the contract is between a Canadian company and a foreign personnel placement or personnel supply agency to supply the Professional, entry may not be granted pursuant to the GATS, even where the occupation is listed in the professional category. 

Remuneration

The Professional may or may not be remunerated in Canada.

Doing business

The Professional’s foreign-based employer must have been established for a reasonable period of time and be actively “doing businessâ€. (See section 4.3 of Appendix G, intra-company transferees, for a definition.) 

Legal Consultants, Urban Planners & Senior Computer Specialists

In the case of Legal Consultants, Urban Planners and Senior Computer Specialists, our GATS commitments further specify that the Canadian company party to the contract must not be a personnel placement or personnel supply agency. 

The fact that the employer in Canada must be engaged in substantive business is interpreted to mean that the enterprise is not a shell or established merely for the purpose of facilitating the entry of foreign workers. Officers will have to rely on information provided by the applicant and supported by documents from the employer in Canada. 

The requirement that the foreign service provider not have a commercial presence in Canada can only be established by relying on information provided by the applicant. Officers should confirm that the professional is not seeking entry to provide services to their company or employer, which has established itself in Canada simply to facilitate the entry of its own employees. 

As there is no central body responsible for regulating computer specialties, the entry of Senior Computer Specialist is restricted to individuals with a Masters Degree in a related discipline, as well as documented ten years experience in that field. The criteria was introduced as a control measure to ensure that only highly qualified experienced computer specialists are permitted entry under the GATS professional category. 

The limit of ten entrants per project imposed on Senior Computer Specialists can be verified by relying on information provided by the foreign service provider or the service consumer in Canada. 

  • Citizenship of a Member nation (listed at the World Trade Organization website) or permanent resident status in Australia and New Zealand;
  • Copy of a signed contract between the service provider and the Canadian service consumer; the contract may have been signed by a foreign service provider located in any Member nation or by a Canadian-based company established by that foreign service provider to sell its services in Canada;
  • Documentation which provides the following information:
    • the profession for which entry is sought and province of destination; 
    • details of the position (job description, duration of employment, arrangements as to payment); and
    • the educational qualification or alternative credentials required to discharge job duties in Canada;
  • Evidence that the applicant has professional qualifications as detailed in the chart (copies of degrees, diplomas, professional licences, accreditation or registration, etc.); 
  • Documentation from the appropriate professional association in Canada, indicating that the applicant’s academic credentials and professional qualifications have been duly recognized; and 
  • Where required, a temporary or permanent licence issued by the appropriate provincial/territorial government.

In processing applications from Professionals, it is essential that officers refer to the chart in order to understand what credentials are required for each occupation and which provinces issue licences for the practice of those occupations. 

If a licence to practice in Canada is required, officers cannot issue a work permit unless the applicant has obtained, prior to arrival in Canada, a temporary or permanent licence from the appropriate province. 

If the applicant presents a provincial licence, it is not necessary for officers to examine the documentation from a professional association or the applicant’s professional qualifications as the province has already done that, except in the case of Foreign  Legal Consultants, Urban Planners and Senior Computer Specialists where the foreign-based employer cannot be established in  Canada. 

If no licence is required to practice in Canada, officers cannot issue a work permit unless the applicant can produce documentation from an appropriate professional association in Canada, indicating that their academic credentials and  professional qualifications have been recognized. 

If the applicant presents such documentation from the appropriate professional association in Canada, it is not necessary for officers to examine the applicant’s educational credentials as the professional association has already done that. 

The work permit should be coded using Exemption Code T33.

Applications for work permits may be made at a visa office or at a POE (for applicants who do not require a temporary resident visa). 

There is a firm time limit on the entry of GATS Professionals. They should be granted status for the period required to complete the work, up to a maximum of three months. Extensions must not be granted beyond three months. 

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FATS

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