IRCC.com
Work Permit2 min read

By

LMIA-exempt work permit codes 2026 — full list with examples

LMIA-exempt work permit codes 2026 — full list with examples

Key takeaways
The LMIA-exempt work permit codes for 2026 include T24, T23, T35, and C41. Candidates for T24 must be part of an intra-company transfer, while T23 and T35 cater to specific professional agreements under CUSMA and CETA. Spousal open work permits (C41) allow partners of skilled workers to work in Canada without a job offer. Applicants must detail the relevant codes on the IMM 5710 form when applying.

Understanding the LMIA-exempt work permit codes for 2026

In Canada, certain work permits do not require a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), simplifying the application process for many foreign workers. The LMIA-exempt work permit codes for 2026 include:

  • T24: Intra-company transfer
  • T23: CUSMA professionals
  • T35: CETA professionals
  • C41: Spousal open work permit
  • C43: Post-graduation work permit holders transitioning to other work permits

These codes represent specific categories for workers, and grasping their implications is essential for a successful application.

Who is eligible for an intra-company transfer work permit?

The T24 intra-company transfer work permit applies to employees of multinational companies who are being transferred to a Canadian branch, subsidiary, or affiliate. To qualify, the applicant must meet several criteria:

  • Have been employed with the company for at least one year.
  • Hold a position that is managerial, executive, or involves specialized knowledge.
  • Be transferring to a position similar in nature to their previous role.

When completing the IMM 5710 form, candidates should include the T24 code and provide documentation to support their employment and role specifications.

What are the eligibility requirements for a spousal open work permit?

The C41 spousal open work permit allows spouses of skilled workers in Canada to work without needing a job offer. To qualify, the applicant must:

  • Be married to or in a common-law relationship with a foreign national who holds a valid work permit.
  • Ensure that the principal applicant's work permit is valid for at least six months at the time of application.

On the IMM 5710 form, applicants should specify the C41 code and provide proof of their relationship, such as marriage certificates or cohabitation agreements.

How can PGWP holders apply for an LMIA-exempt work permit?

For those holding a post-graduation work permit (C43), transitioning to another LMIA-exempt work permit is possible. Candidates must:

  • Meet the eligibility criteria for the new work permit category they are applying for.
  • Ensure their PGWP is valid at the time of application.
  • Complete the IMM 5710 form, indicating the relevant LMIA-exempt code.

Providing accurate information and supporting documents is crucial for a smooth application process.

In summary, understanding the LMIA-exempt work permit codes for 2026 is important for foreign workers looking to work in Canada. Each code has specific eligibility requirements, and applicants should carefully complete their applications to comply with Canadian immigration regulations.

Official current rules are at canada.ca; this guide is independent reference content.

A small portion of this article — research support, fact-cross-checking, and copy-editing — was assisted by AI tooling. Editorial decisions, source verification, and final sign-off remain with our team. We cite primary sources from canada.ca for every factual claim.

Last reviewed: June 8, 2026

IRCC.com is an independent news site and not affiliated with the Government of Canada.

Want the next IRCC update in your inbox?

Weekly digest. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.

Free tools for this topic

More news

Temporary foreign workers in P.E.I. report fraud and abuse, but only 10 employers have faced…

Temporary foreign workers in Prince Edward Island (P.E.I.) have reported instances of fraud and abuse, yet only ten employers have faced penalties for these violations.

Open Work Permit vs Employer-Specific Work Permit: What's the Difference?

An open work permit lets you work for almost any employer and isn't tied to a job, but you must qualify through a specific route like a PGWP, spousal permit, or bridging permit. An employer-specific permit locks you to one job and usually needs a job offer plus an LMIA. Here's ho

Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): Eligibility and How It Works

A plain-English guide to the Post-Graduation Work Permit: what it is, who qualifies, how and when to apply, and how to use it as a path toward permanent residence. Covers the once-per-lifetime rule, DLI eligibility, timing deadlines, and what to confirm on IRCC.

Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP): Who Qualifies and How to Apply

A Bridging Open Work Permit lets eligible Canadian PR applicants keep working while their application is processed. Learn who qualifies, the program stages that trigger eligibility, how to apply online, and why applying before your current permit expires matters most.

Spousal Open Work Permit: Who Is Eligible

A spousal open work permit lets the spouse or common-law/conjugal partner of a Canadian worker, student, or PR/citizen work for almost any employer. Eligibility now depends on which status your partner holds; confirm current rules and fees on the official IRCC website.

LMIA Explained: When an Employer Needs One

A plain-language guide to the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA): what it is, when a Canadian employer actually needs one versus an LMIA-exempt permit, how the process works step by step, and how it can boost an Express Entry profile.

Comments

For general discussion only. We can’t review individual cases or give immigration advice — for that, contact a licensed representative.

Comments post instantly. Spam and abuse are filtered automatically.

No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts.