Most foreign workers looking to work in Canada need a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), an important document issued by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). This document enables Canadian businesses to hire foreign workers to address labour shortages in specific industries.

With extensive experience and expertise, our visa consultants offer a comprehensive Canada LMIA Work Permit guide, covering various LMIA types, eligibility criteria, and the application process. The ESDC mandates that employers complete the LMIA process to prove that hiring a foreign worker will not adversely affect the Canadian labour market. This requires showing that no Canadian citizens or permanent residents were available to fill the position the company needs to fill. Once foreign workers obtain a positive LMIA, they can proceed to apply for a work permit with their new Canadian employer. Explore the Canada LMIA process, work permit types, and application insights with Flyworld Migration experts.

Canada LMIA Application Process

The LMIA process begins when an employer submits an application to ESDC. The assessment includes various factors such as:

• The offered salary must be equal to or greater than the regional occupation average.
• The employer must prove they have made genuine efforts to hire Canadian workers.
• The conditions of employment must adhere to local labor laws.

Once the employer’s application is approved, the foreign worker can apply for their work permit through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Types of LMIA Work Permits

Getting a Canada visa can be challenging. Our experienced migration consultants will assist you throughout the LMIA process. Once approved, the employer can hire you, and you can apply for a work permit with IRCC to start working legally in Canada. These are two types of LMIA work permits under the Canadian government:

• Low-Wage: This is required for positions that pay less than the provincial median wage.
• High-Wage: This is for positions that provide wages higher than the provincial median.
• Agricultural: This is designed for foreign workers filling agricultural roles. There are specific categories such as the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program and Agricultural Stream.
• Global Talent Stream: This fast-track program targets highly skilled workers in specific fields, such as IT professionals, engineers, and other tech-related roles.
• Facilitate: Quebec employers can apply for a facilitated LMIA, which differs from other types as it does not require proof that Canadian workers are unavailable for the position.

Canada LMIA-Exempt Work Permits

In certain circumstances, foreign workers may be exempt from the LMIA process. For example, workers covered under international trade agreements, self-employed entrepreneurs, and intra-company transferees may not require an LMIA. If you are an employer or a foreign worker navigating this complex process, it is advisable to consult with our immigration experts at Flyworld Migration to ensure compliance with all requirements and maximize your chances of success.