Employers

Any employer in Canada wanting to hire a foreign worker can generally apply for an LMIA if they cannot find a Canadian citizen or permanent resident to fill the position. Small and large businesses can apply for LMIAs. However, the employer must demonstrate an immediate need to hire a worker and the financial capacity to pay their wages to be eligible.

Foreign Workers

Foreign workers who have been offered a job in Canada and wish to work in the country must have a positive LMIA from their prospective employer to apply for a work permit. Note that there are some exceptions to the LMIA process, including the International Mobility Program, which allows some foreign workers to enter Canada without an LMIA. However, this program is based on international trade agreements and reciprocal agreements between Canada and other select countries. Fill out the form and find out if you can apply for an LMIA.

Advantages:

For Employers:

• Access to Skilled Workers: LMIA allows Canadian employers to hire foreign workers with the specific skills and qualifications they need, which can be particularly valuable when there is a shortage of skilled labor in Canada.
• Flexibility: It provides flexibility in recruiting foreign workers to meet seasonal or short-term labor needs when Canadian workers are unavailable or willing to take on certain jobs.
• Employee Retention:Hiring foreign workers through the LMIA process can help employers retain experienced and trained employees, reducing turnover and training costs.

For Temporary Foreign Workers:

• Work in Canada Legally: An approved LMIA is typically required for foreign workers to obtain a work permit in Canada, allowing them to work legally.
• Opportunity for Permanent Residency: Some LMIA-based work permits can eventually lead to applications for permanent residency in Canada, providing a pathway for foreign workers to become permanent residents.
• Access to Canadian Social Benefits:Depending on the specific work permit, foreign workers with an LMIA can access certain social benefits in Canada, such as healthcare.
• Professional Development: Working in Canada can provide foreign workers with valuable international work experience and the opportunity to enhance their skills and qualifications.
• Family Reunification:In many cases, LMIA-based work permits allow foreign workers to bring their family members to Canada, promoting family reunification.

Eligibilities:

For Employer -

• Registered business
• Business License
• Tax and related documents
• Recruitment efforts
• Funds to support
• LMIA approval from ESDC

For Employee -

• Job Offer
• Resumes
• Language Proficiency Test Result
• Work Experience
• Supportive Documents for ties to home country