Your Guide to the Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)
Everything you need to know about LMIA work permit.
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Our team specializes in closed and open work permits, and we’ll guide you through the LMIA work permit process.
Finding a job in Canada as a newcomer can be challenging. Understanding the different types of work permits is crucial. There are work permits that require a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) and those that don’t.
If an employer obtains an LMIA, it’s the first step toward securing a work permit and finding a job in Canada.
What is LMIA?
An LMIA is a letter from the Canadian government stating that hiring a foreign worker won’t harm the local job market. Companies need to show that they couldn’t find a qualified Canadian candidate before they can get an LMIA.
How to apply for an LMIA Work Permit?
An LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) work permit allows foreign workers to come to Canada to work for a specific Canadian employer. To apply for an LMIA application, you’ll typically need to follow these steps:
1. LMIA Requirements for Employer
- Job Posting: The Canadian employer must post the job for a specified period to give Canadian workers a chance to apply.
- LMIA Application: The employer submits an LMIA application to Service Canada, providing details about the job, the foreign worker’s qualifications, and evidence that they’ve tried to hire a Canadian worker.
2. Service Canada Assessment
- Review: Service Canada reviews the employer’s application and determines if there are suitable Canadian workers available for the position.
- Positive or Negative LMIA: If there are no suitable Canadian workers, Service Canada issues a positive LMIA. If there are suitable Canadian workers, they issue a negative LMIA.
3. LMIA requirements for Foreign Workers
- Work Permit Application: If the employer receives a positive LMIA, they can then submit a work permit application on your behalf.
- Required Documents: You’ll need to provide documents such as a valid passport, medical exam results (if required), and proof of ties to your home country.
Important Considerations:
- Processing Time: The processing time for LMIA applications can vary.
- Fees: There are fees associated with both the LMIA application and the work permit application.
- Eligibility Criteria: To be eligible for an LMIA work permit, you must meet specific criteria, such as having a job offer and being in good health.
Why is LMIA important?
LMIA makes sure that hiring a foreign worker for a specific job won’t hurt the Canadian job market. It checks to see if the job offer is real if the company is following all the work rules, and if the job will pay well and have good working conditions.
Steps for Employers to Apply for an LMIA
Below are the main steps employers need to follow:
1. Job Posting. Post the job vacancy publicly for a specified period to give Canadian workers a chance to apply.
2. Prepare the Application. Complete the LMIA application form and submit it to Service Canada along with supporting documents. These documents may include:
- A copy of the job posting
- Proof of efforts to hire Canadian workers
- A detailed job offer for the foreign worker
- Information about the company and its operation
3. Assessment. Service Canada will review the application and assess whether there are suitable Canadian workers available for the position.
4. Decision. Service Canada will issue either a positive LMIA (indicating that a foreign worker is needed) or a negative LMIA (indicating that a Canadian worker is available).
5. Work Permit Application. If a positive LMIA is issued, the employer can then submit a work permit application for the foreign worker.
LMIA process for candidates
As a candidate, you will need to provide information to the Canadian employer:
1. You receive a job offer from a Canadian employer.
2. The employer informs you that an LMIA is required to obtain a work permit for you.
3. You may be asked to provide documents such as your resume, work experience, education certificates, and references.
4. The employer will use this information to prepare their LMIA application.
5. The employer submits the LMIA application to Service Canada.
6. If the LMIA is positive, it means the employer can proceed with your work permit application.
How We Help with LMIA Application
Job Validation Support
We help employers create real job offers that meet ESDC's standards.
Compliance Assurance
Our team checks that the job offer meets all legal requirements.
Occupation Classification
We assist employers in determining the appropriate skill level for the job.
Wages and Prevailing Rates
We work with employers to ensure fair wages for foreign workers.
Other Work Permits Without LMIA in Canada
Our immigration specialists are here to assist you
Need a work permit or LMIA? We can help. Our team specializes in closed and open work permits, and we’ll guide you through the LMIA process.