Work Permits Without LMIA for EU Citizens in Canada

By Visa Jobs CanadaJuly 29, 2025Work Visas & LMIA NewsCanadian immigration, European countries, LMIA-exempt work permits, visa sponsorship, work permits

Are you from one of the European Union (EU) member countries? If so, you have a unique opportunity when it comes to pursuing a work permit in Canada! Thanks to the Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), citizens from eligible EU countries can apply for work permits that are often easier and faster to obtain. Let’s delve into what this means for you and how to navigate the process.

What is CETA?

The CETA agreement not only strengthens trade relations but also streamlines the process for EU citizens seeking to work in Canada. One of the most significant benefits is that CETA permits are LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment)-exempt, meaning no additional evaluation is needed to determine the impact hiring a foreign worker will have on the Canadian job market. This can save you valuable time and make the application process less daunting.

Who is Eligible for CETA Work Permits?

A CETA work permit is available to citizens from EU countries like Germany, Italy, Spain, and many others—totaling 27 countries. But not everyone is eligible in the same way. Here’s a quick overview of who can apply:

Intra-company transferees: Executives, supervisors, or specialized workers who are already employed by a company in the EU looking to work temporarily at a branch in Canada.
Investors: Individuals who have made substantial investments into a Canadian business or are developing one.
Professionals: Those with a university degree or specific qualification providing contractual services to clients in Canada.
Technologists: Engineering or scientific experts looking to bring their skills to the Canadian workforce.

Steps to Apply for a CETA Work Permit

Applying for a CETA work permit involves two main phases: the employer’s responsibilities and your own as the applicant.

Employer’s Steps:

Submit a job offer via the Employer Portal.
Pay the necessary compliance fee of $230.
Provide you with an offer number to include in your application.

Your Steps:

Once your employer completes their part, you can begin your application:

Confirm your eligibility.
Complete the required forms.
Gather necessary documents, such as proof of education and experience.
Pay the processing fee of $150.
Submit your application to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

It’s essential to keep in mind that processing times can vary widely depending on your country of citizenship, so be prepared for a wait of anywhere from one week to three months.

Can My Spouse Apply for an Open Work Permit?

If you secure a CETA work permit, your spouse or common-law partner may be eligible for an Open Work Permit (OWP). This lets them work in Canada while you are employed there. However, they must meet specific requirements, such as being in a genuine relationship with you and meeting general eligibility conditions like having valid temporary residency.

Additional Entry Requirements

Every applicant, regardless of their visa route, needs to meet Canada’s general entry requirements. This includes proving financial stability, showing intent to return home after the permit expires, and being admissible to Canada. If you face any issues regarding admissibility—such as prior criminal records—it’s advisable to seek guidance from a qualified immigration lawyer.

If you’re considering job opportunities in Canada through the CETA pathway or just starting to explore the idea of moving here, don’t forget to check out our website, VisaJobsCanada.com. We focus specifically on Canadian jobs with visa sponsorship options, making the process simpler for international applicants like you.