The Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between Canada and Colombia has not only strengthened the commercial ties between the two nations but has also opened up new opportunities for labor mobility. This agreement enables Colombian professionals and technicians to work in Canada in specific sectors and thereby, contributing to the economic growth and development of both countries. However, one of the essential elements of the Agreement is that the candidate must be of Colombian nationality.

The opportunities within the FTA

For most of the applicants, they are exempted of the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) which facilitates the access to a wide range of jobs, classified according to the National Occupational Classification (NOC). For professionals and executives (levels 0 and 1), most positions are available—with a few exceptions in sectors such as healthcare, education, social services, cultural industries, and certain executive roles in areas like sports, transportation, manufacturing, telecommunications, postal services, utilities, and construction.

For technicians and technologists (levels 2 and 3), the FTA covers diverse areas including various branches of engineering (civil, mechanical, industrial, electrical, or electronic), as well as specialized trades such as electricians, plumbers, and mechanics. Moreover, opportunities extend to sectors like mining, energy, design, technology, and industrial supervision, allowing professionals from varied backgrounds to find a place in Canada’s dynamic labor market.

The Path to a Closed Work Permit

Accessing these career opportunities involves a well-defined process that requires collaboration between the Canadian employer and the applicant. Initially, the employer must report the job offer through the official Government of Canada portal. This process includes registering on the system, completing an online form (which incorporates the F12 code related to the job classification), and paying the required fee. Once completed, a unique number is generated and, along with the job offer letter, provided to the worker.

For the Colombian professional or technician, the next step is to meet specific academic and work experience requirements. Professionals are expected to have completed at least four years of university studies, while technicians or technologists must have a minimum of two years of specialized training. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate a basic or intermediate level of proficiency in English or French, depending on the job’s requirements, and provide all necessary documentation such as a valid passport, academic certificates, language test results, and proof of work experience.

Once all documentation is gathered, the applicant must complete the work permit application via the IRCC* portal, pay the relevant fees, and, if required, undergo biometric processing. This initiates the evaluation process which, upon approval, allows for entry and employment in Canada.

The FTA between Canada and Colombia represents an excellent opportunity for Colombian professionals and technicians to access well-paying, high-quality jobs in the Canadian labor market. Although the process requires careful preparation and adherence to specific requirements, having the proper guidance can smooth the way toward success.        

 At Wexcan, we are here to support you throughout your immigration journey.

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*: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada is Canada's government department responsible for immigration, settlement, resettlement and citizenship programs and services.

None of our posts on this blog constitute legal advice. For legal advice, we invite you to schedule a meeting here.