On July 5, 2024, Canada introduced a new instruction for businesspersons under the Canada-Ukraine Free Trade Agreement (CUFTA). These provisions, which took effect on July 1, 2024, are designed to facilitate the temporary entry of businesspersons from Ukraine into Canada.
The updated CUFTA provisions cover four categories of businesspersons:
- Business Visitors: Ukrainian business visitors can now conduct a wider range of activities in Canada without work authorization. These activities include meetings and consultations, research and design, manufacturing and production, sales, marketing, distribution, after-sales services, and general services.
- Intracompany Transfers: Intra-company transferees can obtain work permits for up to three years without needing a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), expediting the transfer process. This category is available for executives, managers, and specialized knowledge workers, similar to existing trade agreements with other countries. This mobility offers international workers opportunities for career development and gaining international experience.
- Investors: Ukrainian investors wishing to set up a business in Canada or make substantial investments in Canadian businesses can obtain work authorization for up to one year. Additionally, spouses of Ukrainian investors can accompany them in Canada and obtain open work permits.
- Professionals: Certain professionals can work in Canada for up to one year. The list of eligible professionals is extensive and includes all TEER 0 and 1 occupations, except for specific positions in health, education and social services, law, and cultural industries. Eligible skilled professionals must have over two years of work experience in their field, completed at least four years of post-secondary education, be fluent in English or French, and have a valid job offer.
The CUFTA allows work permit applications to be assessed under paragraph 204(a) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations (IRPR), part of the International Mobility Program (IMP). This agreement aims to strengthen economic ties between Canada and Ukraine by facilitating easier movement for business professionals and encouraging investment opportunities. By easing the entry process for Ukrainian businesspersons, CUFTA is set to enhance bilateral trade and economic collaboration, reflecting Canada’s commitment to fostering a dynamic and interconnected global economy.