Question 1

What is an LMIA exemption code under the International Mobility Program (IMP)?

Accepted Answer

An LMIA exemption code is a specific legal code under IRPR Sections 204 to 208 that allows a Canadian employer to hire a foreign worker without undergoing ESDC's Labour Market Impact Assessment process.

Question 2

What are the most common LMIA exemption codes in Canada?

Accepted Answer

Common codes include C10 (Significant Benefit), C14 (Intra-Company Transferee), C16 (Francophone Mobility), C41/C42 (Spousal Open Work Permits), and T24 (CUSMA Professionals).

Question 3

Does an employer need to pay an Employer Compliance Fee for LMIA-exempt work permits?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Employers hiring under an LMIA-exempt closed work permit must submit an offer of employment through IRCC's Employer Portal and pay the $230 CAD Employer Compliance Fee before the foreign worker applies.

Code	Exemption Name	IRPR Statutory Section	Category
C10	Significant Benefit (General)	IRPR 205(a)	Public Interest
C11	Entrepreneurs & Self-Employed	IRPR 205(a)	Business / Economic
C14	Intra-Company Transferees (ICT)	IRPR 205(a)	Multinational Corporate
C16	Francophone Mobility (Outside Quebec)	IRPR 205(a)	French Minority
C41	Spouse of High-Skilled TFW	IRPR 205(c)(ii)	Family / Spousal
C42	Spouse of Master’s / PhD Student	IRPR 205(c)(ii)	Family / Spousal
T24	CUSMA Professionals (USA / Mexico)	IRPR 204(a)	Free Trade Agreement
C20	Reciprocal Employment	IRPR 205(b)	Cultural / Academic

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