Hiring a foreign worker in Canada requires careful planning and compliance with immigration regulations. In most cases, employers must first obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) before hiring a foreign national. An LMIA is a crucial step in proving that hiring a foreign worker will have a positive or neutral impact on the Canadian job market.

Whether you are an employer looking to fill a labor shortage or a foreign worker seeking employment in Canada, we are here to guide you through the LMIA process.

 

What is an LMIA?

A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a document issued by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) that assesses whether there is a need for a foreign worker to fill a job position. The LMIA ensures that no qualified Canadian citizens or permanent residents are available to take the job before a foreign worker is hired.

✔ A positive LMIA means an employer is approved to hire a foreign worker.
✔ A negative LMIA means the position should be filled by a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.

 

Who Needs an LMIA?

Most employers hiring foreign workers under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) require an LMIA. However, some work permit categories under the International Mobility Program (IMP) may be LMIA-exempt due to international trade agreements or reciprocal benefits.

If you're unsure whether an LMIA is required for your hiring needs, we can assess your situation and provide expert guidance.

 

Types of LMIA Applications

✔ High-Wage LMIA – For jobs that pay above the median wage in the province or territory.
✔ Low-Wage LMIA – For jobs that pay below the median wage, with additional employer requirements.
✔ Global Talent Stream (GTS) – A fast-track LMIA for highly skilled workers in specialized fields like tech and engineering.
✔ Agricultural LMIA – For employers hiring foreign agricultural workers under the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP) or the Agricultural Stream.
✔ Dual Intent LMIA – Allows a foreign worker to apply for both a temporary work permit and permanent residency (e.g., through Express Entry).

 

LMIA Application Process

1. Employer Recruitment Efforts – Employers must demonstrate they have actively advertised the position and attempted to hire Canadians first.

2. LMIA Application Submission – The employer submits a complete LMIA application to ESDC, including job details and proof of recruitment efforts.

3. ESDC Review & Decision – ESDC assesses whether hiring a foreign worker will benefit or harm the Canadian labor market.

4. Worker Applies for a Work Permit – If approved, the foreign worker can apply for a work permit using the positive LMIA and job offer.

 

Processing Time for LMIA Applications

LMIA processing times vary based on the type of application and demand, but the Global Talent Stream (GTS) can be processed in two weeks, while standard LMIAs may take several months.

 

How We Can Help

The LMIA process involves strict regulations, extensive paperwork, and potential delays if not handled correctly. Our team assists both employers and foreign workers with:

✔ Assessing eligibility for an LMIA
✔ Preparing and submitting a complete LMIA application
✔ Guiding employers through recruitment requirements
✔ Helping foreign workers apply for work permits after a positive LMIA

 

Start Your LMIA Process Today!

If you're an employer looking to hire a foreign worker or a foreign worker exploring job opportunities in Canada, contact us today for expert assistance!