LMIA explained (Canadian government hiring approval)
LMIA stands for Labour Market Impact Assessment — in simple terms, it is the Canadian government's permission for a Canadian employer to hire a foreign worker when no Canadian candidate is available for the job.
Registration is free and takes less than one minute.
REGISTER NOWWho applies for the LMIA
The employer applies, not the candidate. The Canadian company must prove it advertised the position locally, that it pays the wage set for that occupation and region, and that hiring a foreign worker will not harm the Canadian labour market.
The employer also pays the government processing fee for the LMIA. You should never be asked to pay for an employer's LMIA.
What it means for you
A positive LMIA is what makes your work permit application possible. Together with your employment contract, it is the core document of your file.
Because the LMIA fixes the job title, the wage and the location, you know before travelling exactly what you will earn and where you will work.
Timelines
LMIA processing typically takes several weeks to a few months depending on the stream and the province. Many employers we work with already hold approved LMIAs, which significantly shortens the process for the candidate.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to pay for the LMIA?
No. The LMIA is requested and paid for by the Canadian employer.
Is a job offer with LMIA a guarantee of a visa?
No. It is a required condition, but the final decision on the work permit belongs to Canadian immigration authorities.