A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a crucial document that Canadian employers must obtain before hiring foreign workers. Understanding the LMIA process is essential for both employers and prospective employees seeking work permits in Canada in 2026.
What is an LMIA?
An LMIA is issued by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) and confirms that hiring a foreign worker will not negatively impact the Canadian labor market. It demonstrates that no qualified Canadian citizen or permanent resident is available for the position.
Types of LMIA Work Permits
1. High-Wage LMIA
For positions paying at or above the provincial/territorial median wage. Employers must demonstrate recruitment efforts and create a transition plan.
2. Low-Wage LMIA
For positions below the median wage. Subject to cap limitations (maximum 20% of workforce in most cases) and shorter validity periods.
3. Global Talent Stream (GTS)
Expedited processing (within 10 business days) for highly skilled workers in designated occupations. Part of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program.
LMIA Application Requirements for Employers
Employer Obligations:
• Demonstrate genuine recruitment efforts (minimum 4 weeks)
• Advertise on Job Bank and two additional recruitment methods
• Offer wages matching or exceeding prevailing wage rates
• Provide suitable working conditions
• Show business legitimacy and financial capability
• Pay application fee ($1,000 per position)
Required Documentation:
• Business registration and incorporation documents
• Detailed job description and employment contract
• Proof of recruitment efforts
• Financial statements
• Workplace safety insurance documentation
• Transition plan (for high-wage positions)
LMIA Processing Times 2026
• Global Talent Stream: 10 business days
• High-Wage positions: 8-12 weeks
• Low-Wage positions: 8-12 weeks
• Seasonal Agricultural Workers: 2-4 weeks
• In-home caregivers: 6-10 weeks
Processing times vary by occupation, location, and application completeness.
Work Permit Application After LMIA Approval
Once the employer receives a positive LMIA, the foreign worker can apply for a work permit.
Required Documents:
• Valid passport
• Positive LMIA letter and LMIA number
• Job offer letter
• Educational credentials and work experience proof
• Language test results (if applicable)
• Police clearance certificate
• Medical examination results
• Proof of funds
Work Permit Processing Times:
• Inside Canada: 4-6 months
• Outside Canada: 8-12 weeks (varies by country)
LMIA Exemptions
Certain work permits don't require an LMIA:
• Intra-company transfers
• CUSMA/NAFTA work permits
• International agreements (CETA, GATS)
• Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
• Open work permits for spouses
• Bridging open work permits
Common LMIA Refusal Reasons
• Insufficient recruitment efforts
• Wage below prevailing rates
• Inability to demonstrate business legitimacy
• Incomplete documentation
• Negative labor market impact
• Previous compliance issues
LMIA to Permanent Residence Pathway
An LMIA-supported work permit can lead to permanent residence through:
• Express Entry (50-200 CRS points for job offer)
• Provincial Nominee Programs
• Atlantic Immigration Program
• Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot
Costs Involved
• LMIA Application Fee: $1,000 per position
• Work Permit Fee: $155
• Work Permit Processing Fee: $100
• Biometrics Fee: $85
• Legal/Consultant Fees: $2,000-$5,000 (varies)
Tips for Successful LMIA Application
1. Start early - process takes 2-4 months minimum
2. Ensure thorough recruitment documentation
3. Offer competitive wages above median rates
4. Maintain detailed records of all communications
5. Consider Global Talent Stream for tech positions
6. Work with licensed immigration consultants
How Waymark Immigration Can Help
Navigating the LMIA process requires expertise and attention to detail. Our licensed RCICs assist both employers and foreign workers with:
• LMIA application preparation and submission
• Recruitment strategy development
• Document preparation and review
• Work permit applications
• Compliance monitoring
• Permanent residence pathways
Contact Waymark Immigration today for professional LMIA and work permit services. Book your consultation to discuss your specific situation.
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