Canada Trade Talks May Ease Work Access for Foreign Professionals

Foreign workers and business professionals from several regions may soon find it easier to work in Canada. The federal government has opened discussions on new trade agreements that could reduce hurdles for temporary work access. These talks involve India, Thailand, the United Arab Emirates, and countries within the Mercosur trade bloc.

Public consultations on these proposed deals closed on January 27, 2026. The feedback now helps shape Canada’s approach at the negotiation table.

Focus on Temporary Business Travel

Across all four discussions, one theme stands out. Canada wants public input on the “temporary entry of businesspersons.” The government links this entry to “business activities, investment, or work.”

If negotiators secure agreements in this area, professionals who travel for short-term work or business reasons may benefit the most. Canada already allows some business travel under existing trade deals, but the new talks could expand these options.

Barriers Under Review

The consultations point to common obstacles that slow or block work permits. Thailand’s notice speaks most clearly about the problem, referring to “impediments to obtaining a work permit… on a temporary basis.”

All four consultations highlight two key issues: labor needs tests and limits on the number of workers allowed. If Canada and its partners agree to ease these rules, foreign workers could face fewer delays and clearer requirements.

One example includes work permit rules that often require proof that no Canadian worker can fill a job. Many current trade deals already waive this step, and negotiators may consider similar approaches again.

No Promises Yet

The government has not made firm commitments. Each consultation document frames these topics as areas for discussion, not guaranteed outcomes. One line appears repeatedly: “The following are examples of areas where the Government would appreciate receiving views from Canadians.”

This wording shows that Canada remains open to change based on public feedback and economic priorities.

How Each Region Differs

Thailand
Thailand’s consultation uses the most direct language on work permits. It highlights two-way movement and states:
“Temporary entry of businesspersons from Canada into Thailand and from Thailand into Canada, including impediments to obtaining a work permit to work in the other market on a temporary basis, such as the application of economic needs tests or numerical restrictions.”
Leaders from both countries agreed on October 30, 2025, to begin trade talks.

India
India’s proposed agreement uses broader terms. It invites feedback on which industries could gain most from easier movement. The text refers to:
“business activities, investment, or work,”
and names barriers such as “labor market or economic needs tests” and quotas.

United Arab Emirates
The UAE discussion mirrors India’s language but adds another layer. Canada also seeks views related to the UAE’s request to join a major Pacific trade agreement. Talks on a separate bilateral deal could begin in 2026.

Mercosur
Negotiations with Mercosur involve several South American countries at once. Canada plans to restart paused talks while also considering Uruguay’s request to join the same Pacific trade pact. This approach adds complexity but keeps worker mobility on the table.

What Comes Next

These talks suggest a shift toward smoother short-term work access. While outcomes remain uncertain, professionals abroad may soon see clearer paths to working in Canada if agreements move forward.