Program delivery update: Reciprocal employment general guidelines [R205(b) – C20] – Canadian interests – International Mobility Program
This section contains policy, procedures and guidance used by IRCC staff. It is posted on the department’s website as a courtesy to stakeholders.
August 13, 2026
The instructions for officers processing applications under the Reciprocal Employment general guidelines [R205(b) – C20] have been updated as follows:
Under “Eligibility,” the following guidance has been removed:
However, the foreign national must be currently employed by the company abroad in order for the company to be able to demonstrate reciprocity and to use the C20 code. Starting their employment with the company upon arrival in Canada would not provide the foreign national—or Canadian employer—with the opportunity to benefit from an exchange of knowledge or experience.
In order for reciprocity to exist, an employer–employee relationship must be in place in the organization abroad before the application is submitted for consideration as reciprocity.