Work in Canada Through International Reciprocity


Apply for the C20 Work Permit with Cougar Immigration

Are you coming to Canada through an international agreement that supports reciprocal work opportunities? The C20 Reciprocal Employment Work Permit allows foreign workers to take up employment in Canada without an LMIA, when similar opportunities are available to Canadians abroad.

At Cougar Immigration, we help professionals, artists, academics, and interns take advantage of this unique LMIA-exempt stream with confidence and full legal support.

 

What is the C20 Work Permit?

The C20 work permit, under section R205(b) of Canada’s immigration regulations, is issued under the International Mobility Program (IMP). It promotes reciprocal employment opportunities that allow foreign nationals to work in Canada when equivalent opportunities are available to Canadians in the other country.

This pathway is commonly used in:

  • International youth exchange programs (e.g., Working Holiday programs)
  • Academic exchange or research placements
  • Professional mobility programs
  • Artistic, cultural, or entertainment collaborations

It’s ideal for individuals participating in bilateral government agreements, university exchanges, or international partnerships.

 

Who Can Apply?

You may qualify for the C20 Reciprocal Employment Work Permit if:

  • You have a job offer from a Canadian employer under a program or agreement that includes reciprocal employment
  • Your home country offers similar opportunities to Canadians
  • The employment in Canada is temporary and for a defined duration
  • The reciprocal nature of the program or partnership is clearly documented
  • You meet standard admissibility requirements (health, security, etc.)

We review your offer and program agreement to ensure full compliance with C20 criteria.

 

How Cougar Immigration Supports You

C20 applications require evidence of reciprocity and program eligibility. Cougar Immigration provides:

  • Program Assessment: We determine if your role qualifies under a reciprocal agreement
  • Employer Guidance: We assist Canadian employers with employer compliance and offer documentation
  • Document Preparation: We prepare program agreements, job descriptions, reciprocal documentation, and application forms
  • Submission & Representation: We submit your LMIA-exempt application and manage all communication with IRCC
  • Extension & Transition: If applicable, we support transitions to other work permits or permanent residence programs

We handle the complexity so you can focus on the opportunity.

 

Pricing

Fees may vary depending on program structure and documentation needs.

 

Why Choose Cougar Immigration?

With in-depth experience handling LMIA-exempt permits under Canada’s International Mobility Program, Cougar Immigration ensures your application is strong, accurate, and aligned with IRCC expectations. We’ve helped professionals, artists, researchers, and students successfully enter Canada through reciprocal pathways.