labour market impact assessment (LMIA)
Complete LMIA application support for Canadian employers hiring foreign workers. From pre-assessment to approval, we guide you through the process compliantly and efficiently.
Understanding LMIA
A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a document from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) confirming that hiring a foreign worker will not negatively impact the Canadian labour market.
Most Canadian employers need an LMIA before a foreign worker can apply for a work permit. The LMIA process involves demonstrating recruitment efforts, justifying wage levels, and meeting specific requirements based on your industry and position type.
Processing times: 10 business days (high-wage/Global Talent Stream) to 8 weeks (standard stream)
LMIA approval is required for:
- General skilled workers in most industries
- Positions requiring specialized expertise
- Seasonal workers
- Agricultural workers
- In-home caregivers and support workers
Why employers work with us
LMIA applications are detailed and technical. Common mistakes lead to refusals, wasted fees ($1,000), and delays of 8-10 weeks before you can reapply.
Our approach:
We represent both the employer and the prospective employee — a unique advantage. With credentials in both Human Resource Management and Immigration Law, we understand hiring needs and immigration requirements equally.
What this means for you:
- Higher approval rates through complete application accuracy
- Proper documentation from the start
- Compliance assurance throughout the process
- Alignment between employer needs and employee qualifications
- Time savings (we handle the complexity)
Complete LMIA support
Pre-Assessment
What we evaluate:
Position qualification and NOC classification. Wage requirements. Recruitment compliance. Likelihood of approval.
Timeline: 3-5 business days
Application Preparation
What we prepare:
Complete LMIA forms. Supporting documentation. Transition plans (high-wage). Business case justification.
Timeline: 1-2 weeks + processing
Post-Approval Support
After LMIA approval:
Work permit guidance. LMIA compliance. Ongoing support. Permanent residence pathways.
Ongoing: Throughout employment
LMIA categories
High-Wage Positions
Definition: Wage at or above the provincial/territorial median hourly wage
Requirements:
- Minimum 4 weeks recruitment on Job Bank + 2 additional methods
- Transition plan (showing knowledge transfer to Canadians)
- Business legitimacy documentation
Benefits: Expedited processing available (Global Talent Stream: 10 days). Employee's spouse can get open work permit.
Processing: 10 days (Global Talent Stream) or 8-12 weeks (standard)
Low-Wage Positions
Definition: Wage below the provincial/territorial median hourly wage
Requirements:
- Cap on foreign workers (20% of workforce in most locations)
- Enhanced recruitment (Job Bank + 3 additional methods)
- Accommodation and transportation information required
- Mandatory employer compliance inspection within first year
Processing: 8-12 weeks
Recent policy note:
Some sectors and regions have temporary restrictions on low-wage LMIAs. Contact us to confirm current eligibility.
Global Talent Stream
For high-demand tech and specialized positions
Category A: Designated referral partners
Category B: Unique, specialized talent in Global Talent Occupations List
Benefits:
- 10 business day processing
- 2-year work permits (renewable)
- Spouse gets open work permit
Requirements: Labour Market Benefits Plan (commit to creating jobs for Canadians, training, knowledge transfer)
When you don't need an LMIA
Some foreign workers qualify for work permits without an LMIA under the International Mobility Program.
Intra-Company Transfers
Transfer executives, senior managers, or specialized knowledge workers from your foreign entity to Canada.
Requirements: 1 year continuous employment with foreign entity. Qualifying corporate relationship. Position in executive/managerial/specialized knowledge category.
CUSMA/USMCA
For citizens of United States or Mexico in specific professional categories.
Eligible: 60+ professions including accountants, engineers, architects, lawyers, scientists, management consultants.
CETA
Canada-European Union trade agreement for EU citizens.
Categories: Intra-company transferees, business visitors, investors, service suppliers, independent professionals.
Significant Benefit
Workers providing significant economic, social, or cultural benefit to Canada.
Examples: Emergency repairs, highly specialized expertise, significant investment, academic researchers.
You still need to:
Submit offer of employment and employer compliance fee ($230), but LMIA process is avoided.
Recent successful applications
Manufacturing – Toronto
Automation equipment installation
HVAC – Northern BC
Regional expansion project
Tech Start-Up – Ontario
Executive recruitment
LMIA processing timelines
Current processing times:
- High-wage positions: 8-12 weeks
- Low-wage positions: 10-14 weeks
- Seasonal agricultural workers: 4-8 weeks
- Global Talent Stream: 10 business days
Complete timeline (LMIA + Work Permit):
Weeks 1-2: Pre-assessment and recruitment planning
Weeks 3-6: Active recruitment (4 weeks minimum)
Week 7: Application preparation
Week 8: LMIA submission
Weeks 9-18: LMIA processing
Week 19: LMIA approval
Weeks 20-24: Work permit processing
Total: Approximately 6-7 months from start to employee arrival
Expedited (Global Talent Stream): Approximately 4 months total
Maintaining LMIA compliance
LMIA approval comes with strict obligations. Non-compliance can result in serious consequences including inability to hire foreign workers for up to 5 years.
Employer obligations:
- Pay the wage stated in the LMIA (cannot reduce after approval)
- Provide working conditions as described in application
- Make reasonable efforts to hire/train Canadians
- Maintain accurate records for 6 years
- Cooperate with inspections if selected
Consequences of non-compliance:
Administrative Monetary Penalty: $1,000 per violation per worker (max $100,000)
Bans from hiring: 1-5 years depending on severity
LMIA revocation: Current LMIA cancelled, employee's work permit may be revoked
Public disclosure: Company name and violations published on government website
How we help you stay compliant:
- Explain all LMIA conditions clearly at outset
- Provide compliance checklist and record-keeping templates
- Answer questions as situations arise
- Help prepare for inspections if selected
Frequently asked questions
How long does the LMIA process take?
Standard processing: 8-12 weeks for high-wage, 10-14 weeks for low-wage. Global Talent Stream: 10 business days. Total timeline including recruitment typically 6-7 months (standard) to 4 months (expedited).
What is the LMIA application fee?
$1,000 per position, paid to Service Canada. This fee is non-refundable even if refused. Separate from professional fees for application preparation.
Can I hire multiple foreign workers under one LMIA?
Yes, if they are the same occupation and wage. For example, 5 construction workers at same wage can be one LMIA. You pay $1,000 per position ($5,000 total for 5 positions).
What if my LMIA is refused?
You can reapply immediately (no waiting period), but must address refusal reasons. Common reasons: insufficient recruitment, wage below prevailing rate, position not justified, incomplete documentation. We review refusal reasons and advise on reapplication viability.
Does an LMIA guarantee a work permit?
No. LMIA approval means the job offer is valid, but the worker must still apply for a work permit through IRCC. IRCC assesses admissibility (health, security, ties to home country). Most LMIA-approved workers receive work permits, but IRCC can refuse independently.
Can my employee apply for permanent residence?
Yes. Many LMIA workers qualify for permanent residence after gaining Canadian work experience. Common pathways: Canadian Experience Class (1 year skilled work), Provincial Nominee Programs (employer-supported streams), Federal Skilled Worker (Canadian work adds Express Entry points).
Dual perspective advantage
Diana vander Zande, RCIC R525854, holds credentials in both Human Resource Management and Immigration Law:
Human Resource Management
Western University
Immigration Law
Ashton College
Human Services
Sheridan College
This unique background allows us to understand employer hiring needs, navigate HR compliance requirements, guide employees through immigration processes, and ensure alignment between both parties.
By representing both employer and employee, we have a complete picture of your hiring situation and can increase approval likelihood.
Ready to hire foreign talent?
If you're considering hiring foreign workers or need LMIA support, a consultation can clarify your options, requirements, and timeline.