Canada–United States–Mexico Agreement (CUSMA/USMCA)
Statutory definition
CUSMA Annex 1603 and the related schedules specify the professions eligible for temporary entry as CUSMA/TN professionals, the qualifications required, and the procedural requirements. IRPR s 204(a) provides the LMIA exemption for CUSMA professionals. CUSMA professional work permits are typically available at the port of entry for citizens of the US and Mexico who are pre-approved for one of the listed professions.
Explanation
CUSMA professionals can enter Canada to work in designated professional categories (engineers, accountants, lawyers, nurses, scientists, etc.) without an LMIA. The work permit is issued at the port of entry upon presentation of credentials and employment documentation. Initial permits are typically granted for 1 or 3 years and are renewable. CUSMA is one of the most used IMP categories for skilled American and Mexican workers entering Canada.