LIMIA-based Work Permits

A Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) makes it possible for a Canadian employer to hire a foreign employee. The LMIA is proof that there are no Canadian citizens or permanent residents to perform the duties required by the job and there’s a necessity to hire a foreign worker.

Eligibility requirements for all applicants:

These are some specific requirements that the applicant must follow regardless of where you are or when you apply for your work permit. You can be eligible for the work permit if you :

LMIA Application Process:

The employer should apply for LMIA for job application and the employer must contact the ESDC to get information on requirements and processing details. The employer has to present necessary documents to prove that the applicant will not negatively affect the Canadian labor market.

LMIA processing can take a few weeks or months, depending on the job position.

LMIA Requirements:

LMIA requirements concern high-skilled and low-skilled occupations which are explained below:

1. LMIA for High-Skilled Occupations -

Prior to applying for an LMIA, an employer must advertise a high wage position in high-skilled occupations for at least a month in the national or provincial Job Bank.

The same rule is applied to low wage high-skilled jobs, but with some restrictions - the company can hire only 10% of temporary foreign workers.

2. LMIA for Low-Skilled Occupations -

Prior to applying for an LMIA, an employer must advertise a high wage position in low-skilled occupations for at least a month in the national or provincial Job Bank.

The same rule is applied to low wage high-skilled jobs, but with some restrictions - the company can hire only 10% of temporary foreign workers

These requirements also protect the rights of a potential foreign worker. It ensures a foreign national enjoy the same payment standards and benefits according to the federal and provincial standards.