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Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)

The Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a crucial document that Canadian employers must obtain before hiring foreign workers. It is designed to ensure that hiring foreign talent will not negatively impact the Canadian labor market. At TopNation Immigration Services, we assist employers and foreign workers in navigating the LMIA process, making it easier to bring international talent to Canada.

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What is a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)

An LMIA is a formal approval from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), confirming that there is a genuine need for a foreign worker to fill a specific position because no qualified Canadian citizen or permanent resident is available for the role. An approved LMIA demonstrates that hiring a foreign worker will have a positive or neutral impact on the Canadian labor market. Once the LMIA is granted, the foreign worker can apply for a work permit.

The LMIA serves to protect the Canadian workforce by ensuring that all efforts have been made to hire locally before seeking international candidates. It is a key step in the process of employing foreign workers in Canada.

Who Needs an LMIA?

Canadian employers who wish to hire foreign workers for positions in Canada generally require an LMIA. This includes industries such as healthcare, agriculture, construction, and technology, where there may be a shortage of skilled workers in the local market. Foreign nationals applying for temporary work permits typically need an LMIA to obtain authorization to work in Canada.

However, certain situations may exempt an employer from needing an LMIA. In general, any time a Canadian employer cannot fill a position with a local worker and wishes to hire internationally, they must apply for an LMIA.

Types of LMIA

Different LMIA categories exist depending on the job type, including high-wage, low-wage, and specialized programs like the Global Talent Stream. Each category has unique requirements, and we help you choose the right path for your needs.

There are several different types of LMIA, each corresponding to the type of job being offered and the wage level:

High-Wage Positions

These are jobs where the wage is above the provincial or territorial median wage. Employers offering high-wage positions must submit transition plans outlining how they will reduce their reliance on foreign workers over time.

Low-Wage Positions

Jobs that pay below the median wage fall into this category. Employers must adhere to caps on the number of low-wage foreign workers they can employ.

Global Talent Stream (GTS)

This stream is part of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) and allows employers to hire highly skilled foreign talent quickly. Positions typically involve technology or specialized fields where local talent is in short supply.

Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP)

Employers in agriculture can hire foreign workers for seasonal positions through this program, often without needing a traditional LMIA, though similar processes apply.

LMIA Exemptions

While many employers require an LMIA to hire foreign workers, certain categories of workers are exempt. These exemptions are generally based on international agreements, specific occupations, or programs aimed at improving social and cultural exchanges.

International Agreements
Workers covered by international agreements like NAFTA, CETA, or GATS may not need an LMIA to work in Canada.
Intra-Company Transfers
Workers transferring from one branch of a company to another within Canada may be exempt from needing an LMIA.
Post-Graduation Work Permit Holders
International students who have completed their studies in Canada and are on a post-graduation work permit can often work without an LMIA.
Mobilité Francophone
French-speaking foreign workers who are destined for jobs outside of Quebec are exempt from the LMIA requirement under certain conditions.

The LMIA Application Process

The LMIA application involves advertising the job, submitting the necessary documentation, and demonstrating that no Canadian worker is available. We guide you through the steps to ensure timely and successful approval.

  • 1st StepJob Posting

    Employers must advertise the position to Canadian citizens and permanent residents for a specific period, typically at least four weeks, to demonstrate that no qualified local candidates are available.

  • 2nd StepSubmit Application

    Employers submit the LMIA application to ESDC, along with documentation proving recruitment efforts, financial capability, and the necessity of hiring a foreign worker.

  • 3rd StepReview by ESDC

    ESDC reviews the application, considering the impact hiring a foreign worker would have on the Canadian labor market.

  • 4th StepDecision

    If approved, the employer will receive a positive LMIA, which they can forward to the foreign worker. The foreign worker can then apply for a work permit using the LMIA.

  • 5th StepWork Permit Application

    Once the LMIA is received, the foreign worker submits a work permit application to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), attaching the positive LMIA to their application.

How We Can Help

Our team at TopNation Immigration offers comprehensive support through every step of the LMIA process. From application preparation to compliance with regulations, we ensure a hassle-free experience for both employers and foreign workers.
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Eligibility Assessment

We help employers determine whether they need an LMIA and guide them on the best approach to meet their labor needs.

Application Preparation

We assist in preparing and submitting a complete LMIA application, including all required documentation such as recruitment efforts, transition plans (if necessary), and financial documentation.

Employer Guidance

We provide detailed advice on job posting requirements, ensuring all criteria are met to satisfy ESDC's recruitment standards.

Timely Follow-Up

We track the progress of your LMIA application and respond to any requests for additional information from ESDC, ensuring a smooth and timely process.

Simplify Your LMIA Process with Expert Guidance

Our team of experienced immigration consultants is here to provide tailored support, from the initial job posting to securing a positive LMIA. Don’t let paperwork slow you down—let us guide you through each step with confidence and ease. Contact us today for a free consultation.

For a seamless, professional, and successful immigration experience.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to the most common questions about the LMIA process, from application timelines to costs and eligibility. We provide clarity on the essential details to help you navigate the system smoothly.

1How long does it take to get an LMIA?
The processing time for an LMIA can vary depending on the type of application. High-wage positions typically take about 2 to 4 months, while the Global Talent Stream may process faster, within two weeks.
2What happens if my LMIA application is rejected?
If your LMIA application is rejected, ESDC will provide reasons for the refusal. We can help you address any issues and reapply, ensuring all criteria are met to improve your chances of approval.
3Can I apply for a work permit without an LMIA?
In some cases, you can apply for a work permit without an LMIA if you qualify for an exemption, such as through an international agreement or intra-company transfer. Otherwise, a positive LMIA is required.
4What is the cost of applying for an LMIA?
The cost to apply for an LMIA is generally $1,000 per position. Certain categories, such as applications under the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program, may be exempt from this fee.
5Do employers need to reapply for an LMIA if they want to extend the foreign worker’s employment?
Yes, employers typically need to reapply for a new LMIA if they wish to extend the employment contract beyond the initial period approved by ESDC.