What is LMIA?
A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a document that a Canadian employer may need to obtain before hiring a foreign worker. A positive LMIA (sometimes called a "confirmation letter") confirms that there is a need for a foreign worker and that no Canadian worker or permanent resident is available to fill the job. The LMIA is issued by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC).
The LMIA process is critical because it serves as proof to the Canadian government that hiring a foreign worker will not negatively impact the Canadian labour market. Once an employer obtains a positive LMIA, the foreign worker can apply for a work permit to work in Canada. An LMIA-based work permit is one of the most reliable pathways to Canadian work experience, which in turn can lead to permanent residency (PR) through programs like Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP).
At Visa Solution Plus, we assist both employers seeking to hire foreign workers and workers looking for LMIA-supported job opportunities. Our team of immigration consultants has extensive experience with LMIA applications across various industries and NOC codes, including high-wage, low-wage, agricultural, and Global Talent Stream categories.
Types of LMIA
High-Wage LMIA
For positions paying at or above the provincial/territorial median wage. Employers must submit a Transition Plan showing efforts to reduce reliance on foreign workers.
Low-Wage LMIA
For positions below the provincial median wage. Employers face a cap on the proportion of low-wage temporary foreign workers and must provide transportation and housing.
Global Talent Stream
Fast-tracked LMIA for highly skilled workers in tech and innovation sectors. 2-week processing time for qualifying employers and positions.
Agricultural LMIA
For seasonal or permanent agricultural workers. Includes Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP) and Agricultural Stream.
PR-Support LMIA
LMIA obtained specifically to support a PR application through Express Entry. Adds 50-200 CRS points. Worker may or may not need a work permit.
LMIA-Exempt Work Permits
Some work permits don't require LMIA — PGWP, NAFTA/CUSMA, intra-company transfers, international agreements, and significant benefit exemptions.
LMIA Application Process
LMIA Requirements for Employers
- Business Registration: Valid Canadian business with CRA number
- Recruitment Evidence: Proof of advertising on Job Bank + 2 platforms for 4+ weeks
- Prevailing Wage: Must offer at or above the prevailing wage for the position
- Transition Plan: (High-wage) Plan to reduce dependence on foreign workers
- Business Legitimacy: Proof of genuine business operations — CRA tax filings, T4 summaries, etc.
- Processing Fee: CAD $1,000 per position (non-refundable)
LMIA to PR Pathway
An LMIA-supported work permit is one of the most effective pathways to Canadian Permanent Residency. Here's how it works:
| Step | Details | CRS Points |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Positive LMIA | Employer obtains LMIA | +50 to +200 |
| 2. Work Permit | Worker obtains employer-specific work permit | — |
| 3. Canadian Experience | 1 year of Canadian work builds CRS score | +40 to +80 |
| 4. Express Entry / PNP | Apply for PR through EE or provincial nominee | Variable |
| 5. PR Approval | Become a Canadian permanent resident | — |
Our LMIA Service Fees
| Service | Description |
|---|---|
| LMIA Processing | End-to-end LMIA application management for employers |
| Work Permit Application | Complete work permit filing after LMIA approval |
| PR Pathway Consultation | CRS assessment and PR strategy planning |
| LMIA-Exempt Assessment | Evaluation of LMIA-exempt work permit eligibility |
Get Started with LMIA Today
Whether you're an employer or a worker — we can help.
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