Canadian Work Permits Requiring A LMIA

A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is the default process that employers must follow when hiring foreign workers and it is part of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). This is a two-steps process that is lengthy and needs to be followed in detail. The LMIA fee must be paid by the employer; although, this fee can be waived if certain conditions are met.

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The main purpose of the LMIA is to give priority to Canadian citizens or Canadian permanent residents when fulfilling a labour shortage.

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The first step is handled by the employer who must submit the LMIA application to Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). ESDC will assess the application by ensuring that the need of a new foreign national is justified. If ESDC officers are satisfied that the employer followed certain standards during the hiring process and there is no Canadian citizen or permanent resident to fulfill such a position, ESDC will issue a positive LMIA.

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If the LMIA is positive, the prospect foreign national may proceed with the second step which is to apply for a temporary work permit with Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

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Whether you are an employer seeking to hire international employee(s) or a worker with a prospect employer seeking to hire you through this process, we can assist with the application to Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) and with the application to Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

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As the process tends to be lengthy, in 2017, Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada released the Global Skills Strategy in order to allow for faster processing times, mainly in industries and occupations that are important for the Canadian economy. When assessing your personal situation, we will always lookout for your best interest, and we will see if you are eligible for any of the quicker processing times.