KGRAPH

Eligibility

Employer Eligibility

Must be a Canadian employer or a foreign employer with a Canadian branch.
Employer must demonstrate a genuine need to hire a foreign worker.
Must be compliant with Canadian labor laws and employment standards.

Job Offer

The job must be full-time, permanent, or for a specified duration.
Must be a genuine job offer that the employer cannot fill with a Canadian worker.

Recruitment Efforts

Employers must show they have made efforts to hire a Canadian worker by advertising the position.
Employers must provide evidence that no Canadian or permanent resident was available for the position.

Wages and Working Conditions

Wages offered must meet or exceed the prevailing wage rate for the occupation and region.
Working conditions should align with Canadian standards and be safe and fair.

Business Status

Employers must demonstrate that their business is legitimate and operating.

How to apply

To apply for an LMIA in Canada, employers must follow a specific process outlined by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). First, you must determine if you are eligible to hire a foreign worker by ensuring your business and the position meet all the necessary requirements. The next step is to prepare and submit an application to ESDC, which includes detailed information about your company, the job offers, and recruitment efforts to hire Canadian workers. You will need to provide evidence of your efforts to recruit within the Canadian labour market. Once your application is submitted, ESDC will assess whether hiring a foreign worker will have a positive or negative impact on the Canadian job market. If approved, you will receive a positive LMIA, allowing the foreign worker to apply for a work permit. The LMIA process can be complex, and working with experts can help ensure compliance and increase your chances of success.

Documents

Employer Information

A copy of the employer’s business license or registration.
Proof of business activity (e.g., financial statements, tax returns).
Number of employees and job details for the business.

Job Offer Details

A written job offers or contract detailing the position, salary, benefits, and working conditions.
Job description, including duties, qualifications, and experience required.

Recruitment Efforts

Proof of recruitment efforts such as job advertisements (e.g., job postings, newspapers, online ads).
Records of interviews and recruitment results.

Prevailing Wage Information

Evidence that the offered wage is in line with the prevailing wage rate in the region (e.g., wage surveys, salary data).

Workplace Details

Description of the work environment and health & safety conditions.
Proof of workplace compliance with labor laws and regulations.

Proof of Foreign Worker’s Qualifications (if applicable)

Copies of the foreign worker’s resume, educational credentials, and relevant work experience.
Any relevant certifications or licenses for the job.

Immigration Documentation (if applicable)

Copy of the foreign worker’s passport, visa, or work permit (if currently in Canada).
Any previous LMIA approvals or Canadian immigration documentation.

Processing time

The processing time for an LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) in Canada varies depending on several factors, including the type of LMIA application and the volume of applications being processed. Generally, the processing time for a standard LMIA is approximately 10 business days. However, it can take longer if additional documentation or information is required. For high-wage positions, the processing time may be quicker compared to low-wage positions. Expedited processing is available in certain situations, but eligibility must be confirmed with ESDC. It is important to submit a complete and accurate application to avoid delays. You should also factor in extra time for the foreign worker’s work permit application once the LMIA is approved. To ensure the process goes smoothly, it is advisable to work with experts who can help expedite your application and meet all requirements.

Advantages

There are several advantages to obtaining a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) for Canadian employers. First, it allows employers to hire foreign workers when there is a shortage of qualified Canadian citizens or permanent residents. This helps businesses fill critical skill gaps and maintain operations effectively. Obtaining an LMIA also ensures that employers comply with Canadian immigration and labour laws, which can help avoid penalties or fines. Additionally, the LMIA process can improve an employer's reputation by demonstrating a commitment to following the proper legal procedures and ensuring fair working conditions. A positive LMIA also enables the foreign worker to apply for a work permit, which provides them with the legal authorization to work in Canada. By hiring a foreign worker with the necessary skills, employers can boost productivity and enhance business growth. Furthermore, the LMIA process ensures that the wages and working conditions for foreign workers align with industry standards, contributing to better workplace standards overall. Lastly, obtaining an LMIA helps ensure that foreign workers' employment will have a positive impact on the Canadian job market and economy.

Labour Market Impact Assessment

Program Features

Eligibility

How to apply

Documents

Processing time

Advantages

Application Process

Initial Assessment

Document Preparation

Application Submission

Processing & Follow-up

Quick Overview

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Frequently Asked Questions

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