Colombians Working in Canada: LMIA Exempt Jobs You Should Know

For many Colombians, settling in Canada represents a major opportunity, but also a challenge filled with legal procedures and complex requirements. Fortunately, the Free Trade Agreement between Canada and Colombia offers more accessible paths to work legally.

This article explores how certain Colombian professionals and technicians can obtain work permits without an LMIA under this bilateral agreement. It also examines who is excluded, the benefits for families, and how to transition toward permanent residence.

What is an LMIA and Why Does it Matter?

The Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a document that Canadian employers must obtain in order to hire a foreign worker, proving that no Canadian citizen or permanent resident is available to fill the job. However, thanks to the FTA between Canada and Colombia, certain Colombian professionals and technicians are exempt from this requirement, which simplifies and speeds up the process of obtaining a work permit.

LMIA-Exempt Worker Categories Under the Canada-Colombia FTA

The agreement identifies several categories of Colombian workers who can benefit from LMIA exemption:

• Business visitors: Individuals entering Canada to engage in commercial activities without directly entering the Canadian labor market.

• Professionals: Individuals with a pre-arranged job offer in Canada in specific occupations.

• Technicians: Skilled workers in technical roles listed in the agreement.

• Intra-company transferees: Employees of Colombian companies transferred to branches or affiliates in Canada in executive, managerial, or specialized knowledge roles.

Eligible Professional and Technical Occupations

The FTA includes a list of specific technical occupations whose holders may benefit from LMIA exemption. These include:

• Civil, mechanical, industrial, and electrical engineering technologists and technicians

• Construction inspectors and estimators

• Electricians and plumbers

• Information systems and computing technicians

• Graphic designers and illustrators

• Chefs and cooks

• Purchasing and international sales agents

It’s important to note that, for professionals, the agreement uses a “negative list” — meaning all professions are included unless specifically excluded.

Occupations Excluded from LMIA Exemption

Some professions are not covered by the LMIA exemption under the FTA, including:

• Health professionals such as doctors, dentists, and registered nurses

• University professors and primary/secondary school teachers

• Social workers and psychologists

• Creative and performing artists

• Managers in cultural industries, manufacturing, and telecommunications

• Lawyers and judges (except foreign legal consultants)

For a complete and detailed list of excluded occupations, consult the official Government of Canada website.

Additional Benefits for Workers and Their Families

Beyond simplifying the work permit process, the FTA offers other important benefits:

• Open work permits for spouses: Spouses of professionals and technicians who obtain a work permit under the FTA may be eligible for an open work permit, allowing them to work in any occupation in Canada.

• Pathway to permanent residency: Work experience gained under an LMIA-exempt permit can count toward immigration programs such as the Canadian Experience Class, making it easier to apply for permanent residency.

Your Profession May Be Covered by the FTA — Let’s Help You Find Out

Understanding whether your occupation is covered under the FTA — and how to take advantage of this opportunity — can be complex. At AskAïa, we’re here to help you navigate this process and build a personalized immigration strategy that aligns with your professional and personal goals.

Find out if your profession is LMIA-exempt and start building your path to Canada with confidence. Schedule your session with Bani here.