International Mobility Program Processing Time & Fees (2025 Update)

If you are planning to move to Canada for work through the International Mobility Program (IMP), one of the most common questions you might have is:

👉 “How long does the process take and how much does it cost?”

In this post, we’ll break down the IMP processing times, work permit fees, and share some expert tips on how you can speed up the process.

Whether you’re applying from inside or outside Canada, this guide will help you set the right expectations and prepare your documents properly.

What is the International Mobility Program (IMP)?

The International Mobility Program allows Canadian employers to hire foreign workers without needing an LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment). This makes it faster and easier compared to other work permit programs.

The program covers several categories, such as:

Intra-company transfers
Open work permits for spouses
Post-graduation work permits
Special agreements (e.g., under trade deals like CUSMA)

If you want to understand the program in detail, check out our guide 👉 How to Move to Canada in 2 Weeks Through the International Mobility Program in 2025.

International Mobility Program Processing Time (2025)

The processing time for IMP work permits depends on:

Country of application (inside or outside Canada)
Type of work permit (open vs employer-specific)
Online vs paper application
Current IRCC workload

Average Processing Times:

Online applications outside Canada: 6 to 12 weeks
From inside Canada: 3 to 8 weeks
Employer-specific permits: usually faster than open permits
Biometrics & medical exams: may add 2 to 4 additional weeks

✅ Pro Tip: Always apply online. Paper applications take longer and are less trackable.

For the latest updates, you can also visit the official IRCC website, as times are updated regularly.

International Mobility Program Fees (2025)

Here’s the official cost breakdown for IMP applications:

Type of Fee	Cost (CAD)
Employer Compliance Fee (paid by employer)	$230
Work Permit Processing Fee (paid by applicant)	$155
Open Work Permit Holder Fee (if applicable)	$100
Biometrics Fee (per person)	$85
Medical Exam (if required)	$100–$300 (depends on country)

💡 Remember: The employer must pay the compliance fee, and this cannot be passed on to the worker.

How to Ensure Faster IMP Processing

Getting your work permit quickly is possible if you follow these best practices:

Apply online – Always choose the digital route.
Submit complete documents – Missing documents cause delays. Double-check IRCC checklists.
Provide accurate job offer details – Ensure the employer submitted the offer through the Employer Portal and paid the compliance fee.
Do biometrics early – Book your appointment as soon as you receive the instruction letter.
Use GCKey or IRCC secure account – Track progress and respond quickly to any requests.
Avoid peak seasons – Applications often spike during summer; applying earlier can save weeks.

Related Resources

Final Thoughts

The International Mobility Program is one of the fastest and most reliable ways to work in Canada without going through the LMIA process. While the processing time usually ranges from 3 to 12 weeks, you can speed things up by applying online, preparing complete documents, and staying proactive.

When it comes to fees, expect around CAD $155 for the work permit, plus $230 employer compliance fee, and additional charges if you require biometrics or medical exams.

If you prepare in advance, your journey to Canada can be smoother than you think.

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