What is an LMIA?
LMIA stands for “Labour Market Impact Assessment.” While exemptions do exist, an LMIA is typically completed by a Canadian employer before they can officially hire a temporary foreign worker, and before that worker may complete a work permit application.
An LMIA fulfils two purposes: 1. To prove that there is a need for a temporary foreign worker in this position; and 2. That there are no suitable Canadian citizens or permanent residents that are available to fill this position.
Do I Need to Get One?
A potential applicant should review the LMIA exemption codes and work permit exemptions and seek to find the most relevant code to their specific situation. The description of an applicable code should clarify if you need to fill out an LMIA. Any offer of employment must include the appropriate exemption code.
Alternatively, an applicant may contact the International Mobility Workers Unit if the temporary foreign worker they seek to hire is both, outside of Canada during the time of application, and from a country whose nationals are visa-exempt.
About the LMIA Process
LMIAs are obtained through Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC); however, the specific process can differ depending on the program one is hiring through. This includes high-wage workers, low-wage workers, workers through the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program, and workers through the Agricultural Stream.
Once an LMIA is issued, the foreign worker can apply for a work permit through their local visa office to come to work in Canada.
How Long will it Take to Process my LMIA Application?
Average Labour Market Impact Assessment processing times for June 2021
Global Talent Stream - 8 business days
Agricultural stream - 13 business days
Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program - 7 business days
Permanent residence stream - 17 business days
In-home caregivers - 13 business days
High-wage stream - 33 business days
Low-wage stream - 29 business days
Please note that the ESDC is currently experiencing a high number of applications, resulting in longer processing times for some Temporary Foreign Worker Program streams.
How can I reduce delays in my processing time?
Fully check that your LMIA application, including all necessary documentation, is complete before submitting
If Service Canada does contact you for additional information, documentation, or clarification regarding your application, be sure to respond promptly and accurately
How can WE help?
At Calver and Associates, we regularly assist clients with both the LMIA process and the subsequent Work Permit Application.
We begin our process by assessing which Canadian Work Program best fits your case, and then evaluate your likelihood of a successful application under this program. We will review all aspects of the client’s job offer to ensure that it meets Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) requirements.
We prepare a comprehensive document checklist specific to your application, prepare the application forms on your behalf, and ensure that all requirements are completed accurately. We submit your application to the appropriate government offices and continue to monitor its progress. We remain aware of any processing delays and do not consider our job done until your application has been approved successfully.
Our Services
Calver and Associates is a leading provider of Canadian Immigration services in Durham Region. We serve clients across Canada and internationally. Our Registered Canadian Immigration Consultant has over 10 years of experience in Canadian Immigration law and over four years of experience serving those in the Oshawa area.
We can assist with applications for both temporary and permanent residency in Canada. We handle applications for study permits, permanent residency, family class sponsorship, visitor visas, work permits, and Canadian citizenship. We also handle criminal inadmissibility cases by developing remedies for refusal.
