CUMSA: 4 Simple Ways to Get a Canadian Work Permit

Have you been looking for a fresh start in a liberal and welcoming country? Are you from Mexico or the US? 

If so, Canada has a wide range of opportunities waiting for you to snatch up through the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUMSA)!

The potential in Canada is paramount. Canada has already regained 75% of job loss since the lockdown started earlier this year in March, adding 84,000 new jobs in October 2020 alone, according to the latest Statistics Canada Labour Force Survey. 

Although borders remain closed for general travel to Canada due to the pandemic, as long as your occupation is considered essential, you will be able to enter Canada, however, will need to self-quarantine for 14 days before you can start working.  

Accompanying great opportunities to work in Canada, are even better benefits, including fantastic paid parental leave, universal healthcare for you and your family as well as free education for your children. You can also enjoy longer paid annual leave and shorter working hours, averaging at just 35.7 hours per week on average! 

Ready to start a new life in Canada? Let's take a look at some of the best ways to get a Canadian work permit through the CUMSA agreement.    

Here are the top 4 programs under CUMSA (the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement):    

• CUMSA Professionals
• CUMSA Intra-Company Transfers
• CUMSA Traders
• CUMSA Investors

How to Get a Canadian Work Permit from Mexico or the US

1. CUMSA Professionals

CUMSA Professionals are for US or Mexican citizens who have a valid Canadian job offer in one of the following qualifying professions:

The great part about this Canadian work permit is that you do not need a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) which makes it easier for your employer and the application process quicker for you! 

You will need proof of your qualifications and some work experience as well as be eligible to enter Canada.

2. CUMSA Intra-Company Transfers

This is a great Canadian immigration option for U.S. and Mexican citizens who are planning to work in Canada for a specific period of time for the same company but at a Canadian branch. In other words, if you are temporarily transferring to a Canadian branch of your current company this is probably the best immigration option for you. This program is for highly skilled professionals employed in managerial, executive occupations, or those requiring specialized knowledge.   

3. CUMSA Traders

If you are planning to come to Canada to partake in a considerable trade deal (more than 50% of trade) between Canada and the US/Mexico this may be the best option for you. The 50% could be either the size or value of the trade.  

4. CUMSA Investors

If you’re looking for investment opportunities in Canada and plan to come to Canada from the US or Mexico to develop your business venture you could apply for a CUMSA Investor visa for essential staff members. 

Alternative Canadian Immigration Options for Americans and Mexicans

Although Canada has this special agreement with the US and Mexico to help improve immigration, this does not mean that they are the only means to come to Canada. If you meet the necessary requirements, you could easily apply through one of over 100 immigration visas and programs. 

There is, of course, the most popular immigration pathway, known as the Express Entry system, which manages three federal economic programs: The Federal Skilled Worker Program, The Federal Skilled Worker Program, and the Canada Experience Program, which handles visa processing in just 6 months.

Another great option is the Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). 11 of Canada’s 13 programs have PNPs, each with numerous streams and categories designed to help simplify the application process and fill the current labour shortage that Canada is facing.     

For more information on how to immigrate to Canada from Mexico, visit our blog here.

For more information on how to immigrate to Canada from the US, visit our blog here.    

Let Us Take Care of Your Canadian Visa Application

Applying for a visa can be time-consuming and confusing. With strict deadlines, procedures, and requirements to adhere to, it can be easy to make a mistake that could cost you your chance to get a Canadian work permit through CUMSA (assuming you are a US or Mexico citizen). But with the guidance and assistance of one of our knowledgeable Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCIC’s), the process will be stress-free.     

When you choose to use our expert and government trusted services, you will receive:

• An in-depth eligibility assessment
• Guidance on which of 100+ immigration programs and visas to choose from;
• An immigration plan tailored to your individual needs;
• A review and submission of all application forms and documentation; as well as
• Support through every step of the application process.

All you have to do is fill out our application form to receive your eligibility assessment and let us take care of the rest. It’s just that simple! Your Canadian journey starts here. 

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