Once the work permit application is approved, foreign workers receive a letter of introduction if they
are outside Canada or a new work permit if they are already in Canada or applying at the time of
entry. The letter of introduction is exchanged for a work permit at the port of entry, provided all
requirements are still met.
The International Mobility Program is primarily administered by Immigration, Refugees and
Citizenship Canada (IRCC), with the involvement of other federal government departments such as
the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and Employment and Social Development Canada
(ESDC). It should be noted that the IMP is separate from the Temporary Foreign Worker Program
(TFWP), which is primarily administered by ESDC with support from IRCC and CBSA. The IRCC
operates the International Mobility Program Unit specifically for companies seeking to hire foreign
workers through this program.
