The Agreement on Trade Continuity between Canada and the United Kingdom (CUKTCA) allows eligible UK citizens and Canadian employers to benefit from LMIA-exempt work permits under Canada’s International Mobility Program (IMP). This agreement ensures continued economic and labour mobility cooperation between Canada and the UK following Brexit.
In practical terms, the Agreement on Trade Continuity between Canada and the United Kingdom (CUKTCA) enables certain professionals, business visitors, intra-company transferees, and investors from the UK to work in Canada without requiring a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). These work permits are issued under IRCC’s “Agreements or Arrangements” category.
If you are a UK national currently in Canada—or an employer seeking to hire UK talent—this agreement may offer a faster, more flexible pathway to lawful employment. An experienced immigration lawyer in Ottawa can help determine eligibility and ensure compliance with IRCC requirements.
👉 Learn more about our services at Venko Law Firm.
What Is the CUKTCA Under the International Mobility Program?
The CUKTCA is a bilateral trade agreement that preserves provisions previously available under the Canada–EU Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), but specifically for the United Kingdom.
Under IRCC rules, work permits issued pursuant to the Agreement on Trade Continuity between Canada and the United Kingdom (CUKTCA) fall under:
- International Mobility Program (IMP)
- LMIA exemption code: T44
- Category: International Agreements
This means Canadian employers are not required to prove labour market shortages, making the process faster and less burdensome.
Categories of Work Permits Available Under CUKTCA
1️⃣ Business Visitors
UK business visitors may enter Canada for short-term activities such as meetings, consultations, or training without a work permit, provided they do not enter the Canadian labour market.
2️⃣ Professionals and Technologists
Eligible UK professionals in specific occupations may obtain employer-specific work permits under the Agreement on Trade Continuity between Canada and the United Kingdom (CUKTCA).
3️⃣ Intra-Company Transferees
Employees of UK companies transferring to a Canadian branch, subsidiary, or affiliate may qualify if they are:
- Executives
- Senior managers
- Employees with specialized knowledge
4️⃣ Investors and Independent Professionals
Individuals making substantial investments or providing contracted services may qualify, subject to strict documentation and eligibility rules.
Eligibility Requirements (Summary Table)
| Requirement | Description |
| Citizenship | Must be a UK citizen |
| Job Offer | Canadian employer required (except some visitors) |
| Occupation | Must fall under eligible CUKTCA categories |
| Work Permit Type | LMIA-exempt under IMP |
| Compliance | Employer must submit offer via IRCC Employer Portal |
⚠️ IRCC requirements, processing times, and fees may change at any time. Always verify current rules on Canada.ca or consult a lawyer.
Employer Compliance Obligations
Even though CUKTCA work permits are LMIA-exempt, Canadian employers must still:
- Submit an offer of employment through the IRCC Employer Portal
- Pay the employer compliance fee
- Provide a genuine job offer consistent with the agreement
Failure to comply may result in penalties or future hiring bans. Our team can assist employers with compliance through our permanent residency lawyer in Ottawa services.
Recent IRCC Guidance and Practical Tips
- CUKTCA continues to apply independently from the EU trade framework
- Border officers assess eligibility strictly against agreement categories
- Supporting documents (contracts, credentials, corporate links) are critical
💡 Tip: Many refusals occur due to improper classification under the agreement. Legal guidance significantly reduces risk.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
No. While similar, the CUKTCA applies only to the United Kingdom and operates independently following Brexit.
No. Eligible applicants receive LMIA-exempt work permits under the International Mobility Program.
Indirectly, yes. Canadian work experience gained may support PR pathways such as Express Entry or PNPs.
Validity depends on the category, job offer, and IRCC officer discretion.
Yes. Spouses may be eligible for open work permits, and children may study in Canada.
For official updates, visit IRCC: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship.html
Why Choose Venko Law Firm?
Venko Law Firm is a trusted Canadian immigration law firm based in Ottawa. We provide professional guidance on study permits, work permits, permanent residency, family sponsorship, refugee claims, humanitarian and compassionate applications, visitor visas, and more.
Our Ottawa-based lawyers combine precision, professionalism, and compassion to help clients navigate Canada’s immigration system with confidence.
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