LMIA-based Work Permit

An LMIA-based work permit in Canada allows a foreign worker to work for a specific employer who has received a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). The employer must demonstrate a need for a foreign worker due to a lack of available Canadian workers. Once the LMIA is approved, the foreign worker can apply for a work permit using the job offer and LMIA details. This permit is typically valid for up to two years and may be renewed, offering a pathway to permanent residence in Canada.

Types of LMIA:

- In Canada, there are several types of Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIA) depending on the type of job and the employer's needs.

1. High-Wage Positions:

  • For positions where the wage is at or above the median wage for the province or territory.

  • Employers must provide detailed recruitment and advertising records to show efforts to hire Canadians or permanent residents before seeking foreign workers.

  • Requires rigorous proof of recruitment efforts within Canada.

    2. Low-Wage Positions:

  • For positions where the wage is below the median wage for the province or territory.

  • Employers face more restrictions, such as limits on the number of low-wage foreign workers they can hire and requirements to provide return transportation and appropriate housing.

  • Imposes more restrictions and requirements on employers.

    3. Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP):

  • For temporary foreign workers hired for seasonal agricultural work, typically for a specific period each year.

  • Employers must provide free housing and return transportation for workers.

  • Focuses on seasonal agricultural work with specific support requirements for workers.

    4. Agricultural Stream:

  • For both seasonal and long-term agricultural work that is not covered under SAWP.

  • Employers need to provide free housing and ensure that working conditions meet Canadian labor standards.

  • Covers a broader range of agricultural jobs with similar worker support requirements.

    5. Global Talent Stream (GTS):

  • Designed to help Canadian businesses quickly hire highly skilled global talent, especially in the tech and innovation sectors.

  • This stream offers faster processing times, typically within two weeks.

  • Offers expedited processing for high-demand skilled positions

    6. LMIAs for Specific Groups:

  • Includes special categories for certain types of workers, such as caregivers, academic researchers, and performing artists.

  • Each group has specific requirements and conditions.

  • Tailored requirements for unique worker categories.

Qualifications：

Foreign Worker Qualifications:

  1. Valid Job Offer: Accept a job offer from an employer with a positive LMIA.

  2. Skills and Experience: Possess the necessary qualifications, skills, and experience for the job.

  3. Language Proficiency: Prove proficiency in English or French (standardized tests like IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF).

  4. Admissibility to Canada: Meet health, security, and background check requirements.

Project Advantages：

  1. Work Permit with LMIA: Obtain and renew work permits in Canada using LMIA.

  2. Extra Points for Express Entry: Gain 50 or 200 additional points in the Express Entry CRS, boosting chances for permanent residency.

  3. Low Financial Requirements: No need for significant financial resources or assets.

  4. Lower Fees: Lower processing fees compared to other immigration pathways.

  5. Canadian Work Experience: Enhance qualifications and gain valuable Canadian work experience.

  6. Family Immigration: Bring spouse and children; spouses can work, children get free education and healthcare.

  7. Early Adaptation: Adapt to Canadian life and culture early, easing long-term integration.

Employer Qualifications:

  1. Recruitment Efforts: Prove attempts to hire Canadians before considering foreign workers (minimum 4 weeks of advertising).

  2. Genuine Job Offer: Provide a detailed job offer including title, duties, wage (meeting prevailing rates), and employment duration.

  3. Compliance with Employment Standards: Ensure the job meets federal and provincial employment standards.

  4. Business Legitimacy: Show proof of a legally established and operational business (licenses, tax records).

  5. Transition Plan (High-Wage Positions): Submit a plan to reduce reliance on foreign workers over time.

Next

Intra-Company Transfer Work Permit