Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)
Most foreign workers who wish to work in Canada require a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). This unique document is issued by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). It allows Canadian companies to hire foreign workers to fill labour shortages in certain occupations. This guide will examine the different types of LMIA, their requirements, and the application process.
What is LMIA Work Permit Canada?
The ESDC requires employers to complete the LMIA process to demonstrate that hiring a foreign worker won’t negatively impact the Canadian economy. This includes demonstrating that there were no Canadian permanent residents or citizens available to fill the position the company is trying to fill. Foreign workers who receive a positive LMIA can then apply for a work permit for their new Canadian employer.
How to Hire a foreign worker with an LMIA?
The temporary foreign worker program allows foreign worker to hire foreign workers. Once a positive LMIA is issued by the ESDC after the verification of the job offer, the Citizenship and Immigration Canada issues a valid LMIA Work Permit/Employer specific work permit to the foreign worker following the application.
How long is the processing time for an LMIA Canada application?
Although the standard processing time for LMIA applications is approximately 3 months, the ESDC has now pledged a 10-day service standard for issuing LMIA’s to these three employment categories:
- High Demand and Skilled Trades
- Jobs with top 10% wages
- Short Duration jobs (120 days and below)
LMIA Employer Requirements
Employers who wish to complete an LMIA must meet the following requirements:
- Be willing to pay a $1,000 CAD processing fee. This applies to all LMIA categories except for caregivers working for low-income families and LMIA meant to support permanent resident applications.
- Advertise their job position for a minimum of four weeks before providing an offer to a foreign worker.
- Offer evidence they have used two or more recruitment outlets in addition to the Canadian Job Bank’s website.
- Offer a transition plan that describes how they will reduce their reliance on foreign workers.
- Offer evidence they have invested in training the
- Prove that they will not lay off Canadian workers after hiring the new foreign worker.
Need help with LMIA Work Permit Process?
Prospective Canadian employers and foreign workers who intend to go through the LMIA process should book a consultation with our experts. We have a professional and experienced team led by a Regulated Immigration Consultant. We understand the LMIA process and can help ensure the employer and the employee meet the ESDC’s requirements.
