CUSMA Professionals Guide
How U.S. and Mexican citizens secure LMIA-exempt closed work permits to work in Canada under code T23.
Under the **Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA)**, qualifying professionals are **exempt from the LMIA process**. Employers can hire you instantly without posting ads locally, and you can apply directly at a Canadian Port of Entry (land border or airport).
CUSMA Professional Stream Requirements
To qualify for a CUSMA Professional work permit (Exemption Code T23), you must satisfy the following:
- Citizenship: You must be a citizen of the United States or Mexico. Permanent residents of the U.S. or Mexico are **not eligible** for CUSMA streams.
- Pre-arranged Job Offer: Have a valid job offer from a Canadian employer (or a service contract with a Canadian client) in an eligible profession. Self-employment in Canada is not permitted under this stream.
- Education and Credentials: Meet the specific educational or license requirements listed for that profession under the CUSMA treaty. Most professions require a Bachelor's degree or license.
- Temporary Entry: You must prove your stay in Canada is temporary and that you intend to leave at the end of your permit.
Eligible CUSMA Professions (Partial List)
CUSMA covers over 60 professional occupations. Here are the most common tech, business, and medical roles:
| Profession | Minimum Educational Requirement |
|---|---|
| Computer Systems Analyst | Baccalaureate degree, OR post-secondary diploma and 3 years experience. |
| Engineer (All fields) | Baccalaureate degree, OR state/provincial license. |
| Management Consultant | Baccalaureate degree, OR 5 years experience in a similar consulting field. |
| Graphic Designer | Baccalaureate degree, OR post-secondary diploma and 3 years experience. |
| Scientific Technician | Theoretical knowledge in sciences, and ability to solve practical problems. |
How to Apply at the Port of Entry (POE)
U.S. citizens can apply directly at a Canadian border crossing or airport:
- Employer Portal Submission: Your Canadian employer must submit the offer of employment through the IRCC Employer Portal, select code **T23**, and pay the **$230 CAD** compliance fee before you arrive at the border.
- Gather Documents: Bring your U.S. passport, original degree diplomas, transcripts, a copy of the employment letter, and the 7-digit Offer of Employment number.
- Border Interview: Present your file to the CBSA officer. They will verify your credentials and issue your paper work permit on the spot.
- Border Fee: Pay the standard work permit fee of **$155 CAD** directly to the CBSA office.
This guide compiles official CUSMA rules and professional requirements sourced directly from:
• Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) CUSMA Professionals Guide: canada.ca/cusma-professionals
• IRCC Exemption Code T23 Guidelines: canada.ca/exemption-t23