LMIA for Work Permit
LMIA-Based Work Permits
LMIA stands for Labour Market Impact Assessment. It is designed to ensure that the employment of temporary foreign workers (TFWs) in Canada does not negatively impact the local labor market. The LMIA process helps Canadian employers prove that there is a genuine need to hire foreign workers for certain job positions. It opens doors to exciting employment opportunities in Canada for temporary foreign workers.
LMIA-based Work Permit Application Process
The application process for getting an LMIA-based work permit involves two main steps:
The employers apply to obtain LMIA for TFW
This step determines the required wage rate employers must pay to foreign workers. To determine this, employers must compare foreign workers’ wages with the provincial/ territorial median wage. Wages should be similar to those paid to Canadians and permanent residents employed in the same job and work location. Then, the application is submitted to Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) for review and assessment.
The TFW applies for the work permit visa
The second step of the LMIA application includes the recruitment process. Here, the employer must execute and provide evidence of their efforts to recruit Canadian citizens or permanent residents for the job before considering hiring a TFW.
Post approval of LMIA
Once the employer receives a positive LMIA, they can begin the process of hiring TFWs. A positive LMIA is valid for up to 6 months after the date of issue. After receiving positive LMIA results, the employer must notify the TFW workers to apply for a work permit or permanent residence.
To apply for a work permit, a worker needs
- a job offer letter
- a contract
- a copy of the LMIA, and
- the LMIA number
Labour Market Impact Assessment Based Work Permit Eligibility and Requirements
To be eligible for an LMIA-based work permit, certain requirements must be fulfilled. These requirements include:
- A valid job offer from a Canadian employer who has obtained a positive LMIA.
- Proof of the TFW's qualifications and ability to perform the offered job.
- Adherence to specific requirements set by the LMIA for the particular job position.
- The ability to prove your intention to leave Canada after your work permit expires.
- The ability to meet the necessary health and security standards.
LMIA Processing Times in 2023
LMIA processing times can vary depending on the type of LMIA application, location, and other factors, such as the volume of applications being processed and the current workload of ESDC. The standard LMIA work permit application takes ten days to 2 months to process. Employers must plan and initiate the LMIA process well before hiring a foreign worker to account for potential processing delays.
LMIA-based work permit fees
There are fees associated with obtaining an LMIA-based work permit. LMIA application fee is $1,000 per employee. These fees are payable by the employer and include application processing fees for LMIA, work permit processing fees for the TFW, and other applicable fees.
A LMIA is required for a work permit in Canada. However, certain types of work permits, such as open work permits or intra-company transferees, are exempt from the LMIA.
The processing time varies depending on several factors. It ranges from 15 days to several months.
No, LMIA and work permit are not the same. An LMIA is a document that Canadian employers may need to obtain to hire foreign workers, while a work permit is an authorization that allows you to work in Canada.
The cost of an LMIA in Canada varies depending on the type of LMIA being applied for. The cost of the application fee is $1,000.
Yes, it is possible to get an open work permit after obtaining a positive LMIA, but it depends on the specific situation and eligibility criteria.
No, you are not allowed to do another job while on LMIA. If you want to work another job on an LMIA-based work permit, you need to apply for a new work permit.
The LMIA is valid for a limited time. It cannot be used twice for multiple jobs or locations. You need a new LMIA for a different job or location.
There is no fixed waiting period after LMIA to apply for PR, but you should review the requirements and eligibility criteria for your chosen PR program to determine when you can apply.
How can ImmiTrust Immigration help with your LMIA Application?
ImmiTrust Immigration is a trusted immigration consultancy firm that specializes in assisting individuals and employers with various immigration matters, including LMIA applications. We provide professional guidance and assistance throughout the application process by understanding the intricate details of the LMIA process. Our consultants can help streamline the process and maximize the chances of getting a positive outcome for your LMIA-based work permit application.
