LMIA:
Labour Market
Impact Assessment
Program Overview
A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a document that Canadian employers may need before hiring a foreign worker. It confirms that hiring a foreign worker will not negatively impact Canada’s job market and that no Canadian citizens or permanent residents are available for the position.
An LMIA is a key part of the process for obtaining a work permit and can also support applications for permanent residence (PR) under programs like Express Entry and the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).
Program Requirements
Employer Requirements
To apply for an LMIA, employers must:
- Be a registered Canadian business with a valid business number (BN).
- Offer a full-time, genuine job that meets prevailing wage standards in Canada.
- Demonstrate efforts to recruit Canadian citizens or permanent residents first, such as advertising the position in Canada.
Foreign Worker Requirements
To work in Canada under an LMIA, foreign workers must:
- Receive a valid job offer supported by a positive LMIA.
- Meet eligibility requirements for a Canadian work permit or permanent residence program (depending on their situation).
Application Process
-
Employer Applies for LMIA
- The employer submits an application to Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), showing recruitment efforts and details of the job offer.
-
LMIA Decision
- If approved, a positive LMIA is issued.
-
Worker Applies for Work Permit or PR
- The foreign worker can use the positive LMIA to apply for a Canadian work permit.
- It can also strengthen their application for permanent residence through Express Entry or a Provincial Nominee Program.
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