If you are a foreign national looking to work in Canada, a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is often a critical first step. Almost all Canadian work permits require an LMIA, which serves as a formal approval from the Canadian government allowing employers to hire temporary foreign workers. The process involves two main stages, with both the employer and the foreign worker required to take specific steps.

Stage 1: Employer Submits LMIA Application

In the first stage, the Canadian employer must apply to Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) for a Labour Market Impact Assessment. The ESDC reviews the application carefully to determine whether hiring a foreign worker will have a positive, neutral, or negative impact on the Canadian labor market.

Factors considered by ESDC include:

• The availability of Canadian citizens or permanent residents for the job.
• Whether the employer has made sufficient efforts to recruit Canadian workers.
• Wages and working conditions offered to the foreign worker.
• Employer compliance with labor laws and regulations.

Only if these conditions are met will the ESDC issue a positive LMIA. This document is crucial because it confirms that hiring a foreign worker will not negatively impact the job opportunities for Canadian citizens and permanent residents.

Stage 2: Foreign Worker Submits Work Permit Application

Once the employer obtains a positive LMIA, the foreign worker can then proceed to the second stage, which involves applying for the actual Canadian temporary work permit. The foreign national must submit their application to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), along with the LMIA. The application will be reviewed by immigration officers, who will consider the foreign worker’s qualifications, job offer, and other factors before issuing a work permit.

It is important to note that a work permit does not grant permanent residence in Canada. Instead, it is a temporary authorization allowing the individual to work for a specific employer and in a specific role for a designated period. However, holding a Canadian work permit can serve as a stepping stone to permanent residency through various immigration programs, such as Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).

Get Professional Assistance

Navigating the LMIA-based work permit process can be complex and time-consuming. Our team of experts can help you through every step, from securing a positive LMIA to submitting your work permit application.

To find out if we can assist with your LMIA-based work permit, complete our Free Online Evaluation (linked to the form). We will assess your eligibility and provide the results within 3 business days, helping you understand your best options for working in Canada.