Your Gateway to Working in Canada with Employer Support
A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a document issued by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) that assesses the impact of hiring a foreign worker on the Canadian labour market. Before most employers can hire a foreign worker, they need to obtain a positive LMIA demonstrating that no Canadian citizen or permanent resident is available to fill the position.
An LMIA-based work permit allows foreign nationals to work in Canada temporarily when Canadian employers cannot find suitable Canadian workers for the position. This is one of the most common pathways for skilled workers to gain Canadian work experience.
Months Validity
To use approved LMIA
Processing Fee
Per LMIA application
Years Maximum
Initial work permit length
For positions offering wages at or above the provincial/territorial median hourly wage.
For positions offering wages below the provincial/territorial median hourly wage.
Two pathways for on-farm primary agriculture roles.
Fast-track LMIA for highly skilled roles in tech & innovation.
Employers who fail to comply with LMIA conditions may face penalties, bans from the program, and their foreign workers could lose their work authorization.
Employer conducts comprehensive recruitment efforts, advertising the position for at least 4 weeks on multiple platforms including Job Bank.
Employer submits LMIA application to ESDC with proof of recruitment, job details, business documentation, and $1,000 processing fee.
ESDC reviews the application, assesses labour market impact, and may request additional information. Processing time: typically 1-2 months.
If approved, employer receives positive LMIA confirmation letter with LMIA number. Valid for 6 months from issue date.
Foreign worker applies for work permit using LMIA number, job offer letter, and supporting documents. Can apply online or at port of entry.
Upon work permit approval, foreign worker can enter Canada and begin employment with sponsoring employer.
LMIA applications are processed for various occupations across all skill levels. Here are some frequently approved positions:
Not all work permits require an LMIA. Here's how they compare:
| Aspect | LMIA Required | LMIA-Exempt |
|---|---|---|
| Processing Time | 1-2 months for LMIA + work permit time | Work permit processing only |
| Employer Cost | $1,000 LMIA fee + recruitment costs | No LMIA fee required |
| Recruitment Required | Yes, minimum 4 weeks | No recruitment needed |
| Examples | Most standard job offers | CUSMA/NAFTA, IEC, Intra-company transfers |
| Restrictions | Tied to specific employer | Varies by program |
Some work permits are LMIA-exempt under international agreements (CUSMA/NAFTA), provincial programs (PNP), or special categories (Intra-Company Transfers, Francophone Mobility). Ask us if your situation qualifies!
We guide employers through the entire LMIA application process, ensuring all documentation meets ESDC requirements and maximizing approval chances.
Develop compliant recruitment strategies that satisfy LMIA requirements while genuinely searching for qualified candidates.
Once LMIA is approved, we assist foreign workers with their work permit applications for smooth, efficient processing.
Ensure your business remains compliant with all LMIA conditions and foreign worker program requirements.
Explore LMIA-exempt options and determine the most efficient pathway for your hiring needs.
Provide continuous support for employers and foreign workers throughout the employment period.
Our experienced team specialize in LMIA applications for employers and work permit applications for foreign workers. Let us handle the complexity while you focus on growing your business.
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