What is an LMIA?
LMIA stands for Labour Market Impact Assessment. It’s how the government checks that hiring you won’t hurt Canadian job opportunities. Employers must advertise for four weeks, prove no Canadian was available, and pay a wage matching the government’s median for the role.
Once approved, that LMIA can be used to apply for a work permit and even boost your CRS points if you’re in Express Entry.
Important Updates About LMIA Points
Yes, temporarily IRCC has taken away the 50 points you could have accumulated with an LMIA. However, the 200 points still stand.
So how do we apply for an LMIA and get you the 200 points? If not an LMIA, perhaps we can look into and see if you qualify under the Global Talent Stream, maybe Intercompany Transferee (also known as ICT), or perhaps a C11 work permit.
If yes, you can still accumulate points towards your Express Entry application.
Pro Tips for Employers
Here are some pro tips. Employers must submit a transition plan for high-wage roles. This is a written document for the employer to submit to prove that they’re not just relying on foreign workers forever, but have a strategy to hire and train Canadians over time.
There are strict rules for who qualifies for an LMIA process. Do you know them? If not, it all depends on location, job offer, employer’s financial situation, etc. Also remember, processing can take weeks or even months, so plan early.
How VisaPath Can Help
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From job offer to approved LMIA, we can help both employers and employees through their entire process. Contact us today!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)?
An LMIA is a document that an employer in Canada may need to obtain before hiring a foreign worker. It confirms that there is a need for a foreign worker to fill the job and that no Canadian worker is available to do the job. Positive LMIAs are sometimes called “confirmation letters.
Who Needs an LMIA?
Most employers hiring through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) require an LMIA. Certain categories under International Mobility Program (IMP), like Intra-Company Transfers or C11 Entrepreneurs, can bypass the LMIA.
Why Is Planning Early Important?
Processing times for LMIAs vary depending on the stream, location, and demand. In many cases, it can take 8 to 12 weeks or even longer. Strategic planning ensures timely hiring without disrupting business operations.
