Government
A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) confirms that hiring a foreign worker will not negatively affect the Canadian labour market.
Hire foreign talent with clarity and compliance
We help Canadian employers navigate the LMIA process with clear requirements, compliant recruitment, and complete documentation.
What is an LMIA?
Understand what the LMIA means for the government, the employer, and the worker.
Employer
It validates your hiring need and authorizes you to hire international talent who wouldn’t otherwise be allowed to work in Canada.
Worker
It confirms that your employer needs you and gives you the opportunity to apply for a closed work permit so you can live and work in Canada for up to 3 years.
How the LMIA Process Works
1
Initial Assessment
We start with a consultation to understand your situation, goals, eligibility and timelines. This helps us determine whether an LMIA is required and which program stream applies to your case.
Book your Assessment2
Employer Preparation
We will help you prepare all required documents including job descriptions, recruitment proofs, and wage details to support the LMIA application and meet government standards.
3
Documentation and Review
Every document is carefully reviewed to ensure consistency, confirm that the position meets current ESDC requirements, and build a submission strategy that minimizes errors, strengthens your case, and increases approval chances.
4
LMIA Submission
We prepare and submit the LMIA application to Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), ensuring every detail is complete and consistent to reduce delays or refusals.
5
Decision & Support
Once a decision is issued, we guide both the employer and the worker on next steps — whether that’s posting the job offer, collecting new documents, or preparing the work permit application.
6
Work Permit Application
With a positive LMIA, the worker can apply for a Canadian work permit. We organize all supporting documents, double-check details, and help ensure a smooth transition to authorized work in Canada.
LMIA Streams
Different streams apply depending on the position, wage, and industry.
High-Wage Stream
For job offers at or above the regional median wage. We help employers prepare the required transition plan and supporting evidence to meet ESDC standards.
Low-Wage Stream
For offers below the regional median wage. We clarify requirements for housing, transportation, and site limits to ensure compliance and avoid rejections.
Global Talent Stream
For specialized or technical positions that qualify for faster processing. We prepare the Labour Market Benefits Plan and coordinate documentation to meet program expectations.
Ready to start your LMIA process?
Every case begins with a consultation where we assess eligibility, explain next steps, and outline the best strategy for your situation.
Start NowFrequently asked questions
Do I always need an LMIA for a work permit?
No. Some work permits are LMIA-exempt under international agreements or special programs. When an LMIA is required, the employer must obtain it before the worker can apply for a work permit.
Who is responsible for paying LMIA fees?
The employer pays the government processing fee and covers recruitment costs. It is illegal for employers to recover LMIA-related expenses from workers directly or indirectly.
How long does the LMIA process take?
Average timelines range from 8 to 12 weeks, depending on the stream and workload at Service Canada. Global Talent Stream applications are typically processed within two weeks if all documents are complete.
What is the difference between High-Wage and Low-Wage streams?
High-Wage jobs pay at or above the regional median wage and need a transition plan. Low-Wage jobs pay below the median and may include limits or extra employer conditions.
What is the Global Talent Stream?
A fast-track LMIA option for employers hiring highly skilled talent in tech and specialized occupations. It requires a Labour Market Benefits Plan outlining how the hire will contribute to innovation and skill development in Canada.
Can a worker apply for an LMIA directly?
No. Only employers can apply for an LMIA. Once approved, the foreign worker uses the LMIA confirmation letter to apply for a closed work permit.
Why do some LMIA applications get refused?
Common reasons include missing recruitment proof, wages below the regional standard, unclear job duties, inconsistencies in documents, or a weak business justification for hiring a foreign worker. We can help you avoid these pitfalls book a meeting.
How long is a positive LMIA valid?
A positive LMIA is usually valid for six months. The worker must apply for the work permit before it expires. The worker may get an closed work permit valid for up to three years, depending on the job offer.
Are employers required to advertise the position?
In most streams, yes. Employers must post the job on at least three recruitment platforms for a minimum of four weeks and provide detailed evidence of their efforts when submitting the LMIA.