← Back to Binder HR
Legislative Update

Federal labour-mobility law takes effect for selected regulated occupations

The law creates a route from provincial or territorial authorization to corresponding federal credentials in covered occupations.

Federal recognition

The Free Trade and Labour Mobility in Canada Act came into force January 1, 2026. Its labour-mobility provisions allow a worker authorized by a province or territory to seek a corresponding federal licence or certificate in a covered occupation.

Examples include land surveyors, locomotive engineers, train conductors and yard foremen. Conditions can still include proof of good standing, fees and, for some occupations, an examination or assessment.

Limits

The law does not create general interprovincial recognition for every regulated profession. Occupations regulated only by provinces and territories—such as doctors, nurses, construction workers and veterinarians—are outside this federal pathway, as are occupations regulated only by the federal government.

View primary source ↗