Canada-European Union: Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) Work Permits

What is the Canada-European Union: Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) 

Canada and the European Union signed a deal to open markets and drop nearly all import taxes on everything from food to cars.

This agreement is a big deal and stands to have far-reaching effects on the movement of goods and services across the Atlantic.

The agreement provides opportunities for European and Canadian businesses to access each other’s markets and increase demand for labour mobility.

CETA makes it easier for skilled labour and investors to move between Europe and Canada.

CETA includes provisions for skilled temporary foreign workers, intra-company transfers, investors and self employed professionals.

This legislation reflects Canada’s strong relationship with the European Union and is a free-trade agreement closely modelled after the Canada United States Mexico Agreement (CUSMA).

If you are a citizen of the European Union you may qualify to gain temporary entry into Canada as an investor, independant professional or inter company transfer for up to 12 months.

The agreement facilitates temporary entry into the country to promote foreign goods and services or make an investment.

There are four categories offered under the agreements;

• Professionals
• Intra-Company Transferees
• Investors
• Business visitors

Professionals

As a  professional, you must satisfy the minimum credential requirements for your occupation.

You may qualify if:

• you have received an offer of employment in a skilled occupation from a Canadian employer
• the employment is in an approved occupation listed for CETA
• you obtain the necessary certification or registration applicable to practice your profession in Canada

Intra-Company Transferees 

If you are sent from the European Union to work for the same business or an affiliate in Canada, you may be eligible to apply.

You may qualify if:

• You have worked for the same company for at least one year within three years in Europe
• you have worked as a manager, executive, or in a position that uses specialized knowledge
• you meet Canada’s basic entry requirements

Investors

To qualify as a investor, your business must be registered and have majority ownership.

You may qualify for a work permit if:

• you will be involved in planning at the supervisor or executive level
• you will work to provide important skills and services to the enterprise, or
• you invest to develop and direct the enterprise in Canada

Business Visitors

If you are a European Citizen business visitor, you may temporarily enter Canada without applying for a work permit.

You may qualify if:

• your main source of income and profits remains outside of Canada
• you meet Canada’s basic entry requirements

We can help you with CETA Work Permits and anything else regarding your move to Canada.

Click below to start your tailored and confidential consultation, or call Matt 1-604-722-8930.