The North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) is a trade agreement between the United States, Canada, and Mexico that has been in effect since 1994. One aspect of NAFTA that has received increased attention in recent years is the international mobility program, which allows certain professionals to work temporarily in another NAFTA country.

Under the international mobility program, individuals in certain professions can obtain a work permit to work in another NAFTA country for a temporary period of time. The list of professions eligible for the program includes engineers, architects, accountants, management consultants, and others. This program is designed to facilitate the movement of professionals across the NAFTA region and promote economic growth.

The process for obtaining a work permit under the international mobility program varies depending on the country you are applying to. In Canada, for example, professionals must obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from the government before applying for a work permit. This process can take several months and requires the employer to demonstrate that they have made efforts to hire a Canadian worker before hiring a foreign worker.

In the United States, professionals can apply for a TN (Trade NAFTA) visa at the border. This visa is valid for up to three years and can be renewed indefinitely as long as the individual remains eligible for the program. To be eligible for a TN visa, the individual must have a job offer in a qualifying profession and meet certain education and experience requirements.

In Mexico, professionals must obtain a Temporary Resident Visa and a temporary work permit. The process can take several months and requires the employer to demonstrate that they have made efforts to hire a Mexican worker before hiring a foreign worker.

Overall, the international mobility program under NAFTA provides an avenue for professionals to gain experience working in another country and for companies to access skilled labor from across the region. For individuals looking to take advantage of this program, it is important to understand the requirements and process for obtaining a work permit in the country they wish to work in. For employers, it is important to understand the obligations and costs associated with hiring a foreign worker under the international mobility program.