2024’s Handbook to Canada LMIA Processing Time

Canada's low population density and abundant opportunities are creating a huge demand for skilled workers. However, Canadian employers would need to support their trial to hire a foreign skilled workforce, also known as the Labour Market Impact Assessment or LMIA report.

In today’s article, we will explore the current most searched topic LMIA processing time to Canada along with every detail that you would require to expedite your application to Canadian immigration.

What is LMIA Canada?

LMIA stands for "Labour Market Impact Assessment" which is a process conducted by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) to assess the impact of hiring foreign workers on the Canadian labor market.

Canadian employers may be required to obtain an LMIA report before hiring foreign workers to demonstrate that there are no qualified Canadian citizens or permanent residents available to fill the job positions.

Types of LMIA

The LMIA work permit provides skilled workers with numerous benefits by providing many streams to immigrate. The below are the types of Canada LMIA work permits.

• High-Wage LMIA Stream: Employers looking to hire highly-skilled or semi-skilled temporary foreign workers can utilize this stream. It becomes applicable when the proposed wage meets or exceeds the provincial median wage.

• Low-Wage LMIA Stream: Geared towards filling low-skilled job positions, this stream is activated when the hourly wage for temporary foreign workers falls below the provincial median wage.

• Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program or Agricultural Stream: This program permits farms to recruit foreign agricultural workers for specific roles associated with primary agriculture.

• Permanent Residence LMIA (for Express Entry): This stream targets employers aiming to assist high-wage temporary foreign workers in transitioning to permanent residents of Canada.

• Global Talent Stream LMIA: This avenue allows Canadian companies to onboard highly skilled foreign professionals for in-demand technology and engineering roles endorsed by the government.

• In-Home Caregiver LMIA: This stream caters to private households in need of in-home caregivers for children, seniors, or individuals with medical needs.

LMIA Processing Time in Canada

As per ESDC, LMIA processing time varies from weeks to months. The process begins with a Canadian employer offering a job to a foreign national due to the unavailability of suitable local candidates.

The evaluation ensures no negative impact on the Canadian labor market. Keep in mind the approval timeframe's unpredictability while planning to hire foreign workers or seek employment in Canada.

Current LMIA Processing Time in Canada

The table below presents the average processing times for all Canadian processing centers. It shows the time taken to process complete applications, from receipt by Service Canada to sending the decision letter.

It is highly suggestive that you should consider these averages to plan your employment needs effectively.

Types of LMIA Assessment Reports Provided by ESDC

Having understood the LMIA work permit processing time for different streams, next you need to understand what are the types of reports ESDC provides after the LMIA assessment is done. The two types of reports include:

1. Positive LMIA: Shows that no qualified Canadian or permanent resident is available for a specific job in Canada.
2. Negative LMIA: Indicates enough Canadian or permanent resident candidates are available to fill the open job vacancy.

Tips to Expedite Canada LMIA Processing Time

LMIA work permit processing times can differ based on the volume of applications received by the Temporary Foreign Worker Programs (TFWP). To expedite processing, you can:

1. Utilize the LMIA Online Portal for submission.
2. Ensure your LMIA application is complete before submission (incomplete applications won't be processed).
3. Ensure all necessary documents are signed by the appropriate authority.
4. Respond promptly to Service Canada's requests for additional information or documentation.

LMIA Canada Application Process

In order to get a Canada LMIA work permit, you will need to follow these easy steps that can make your process succeed.

Step 1 - Verify whether you need an LMIA

• Determine if it's necessary to obtain an LMIA for hiring a foreign worker.
• Check if there are any prohibitions to process an LMIA
• Ensure there are no restrictions or prohibitions that prevent the processing of an LMIA.

Step 2 - Determine the required wage rate

Establish the mandated wage rate employers must pay to foreign workers for the specific position and location.

Step 3 -Select the appropriate LMIA stream

Based on the occupation and the wage rate, choose the suitable stream for the LMIA application based on the occupation's classification and wage rate.

Step 4 - Prepare advertising and recruitment campaign

• Develop an advertising and recruitment strategy as per the requirements of the chosen LMIA stream.
• Conduct an advertising and recruitment campaign for the prescribed period: Actively execute the advertising and recruitment efforts within the designated timeframe.

Step 5 - Complete the LMIA application package

Compile and organize all necessary documents for the LMIA application, including forms, proofs of recruitment, a recruitment summary, and all supporting documents.

Step 6 - Pay fees and submit the LMIA application

Process the accompanying fees and submit the complete LMIA application.

Step 7- Maintain ongoing records

• Continue the advertising & recruitment campaign and keep records of the results.
• Participate in the final phone interview
• Engage in the conclusive phone interview with the Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) officer as part of the assessment process.

Step 8 - Receive the LMIA decision

• Await the decision regarding the LMIA application.
• Provide the LMIA decision to foreign workers
• Share a copy of the LMIA decision with the relevant foreign workers as applicable.

LMIA Online Application: Benefits and Requirements

LMIA Online applications offer a reliable and secure electronic platform for Canadian employers and third-party representatives. With a Job Bank account, you can:

1. Submit LMIA applications 24/7.
2. Complete or revisit applications before submission.
3. Upload supporting documents securely.
4. Pay LMIA fees, if applicable.
5. Receive real-time updates on your application status.
6. Access correspondence and decision letters from Service Canada.
7. Review previously submitted applications.
8. Monitor application status when a third-party representative submits on your behalf.

To access the LMIA Online Portal, employers and representatives need a valid Job Bank account for authentication. If you don't have one, sign up now.

Once your Job Bank account is ready, you can complete your LMIA application via the portal and track its status at any time by logging in.

What are the Exemptions to LMIA Requirements?

Certain conditions provide exemptions from the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) requirement, allowing specific individuals to bypass the LMIA process. Here are some of the primary exemptions

• International Mobility Program (IMP): Canadian employers can enlist temporary foreign workers through the IMP without undergoing the LMIA process.

• Workers Covered Under International Agreements: Employees covered under international agreements, such as the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) or the General Agreement on Trade in Services (GATS), may be exempt from the LMIA requirement.

• Reciprocal Employment: This encompasses programs like the International Experience Canada (IEC), enabling youth from select countries to work in Canada temporarily.

• Public Policies: Certain public policies issued under A25.2, both domestically and internationally, may grant exemptions from the LMIA requirement.

• Francophone Mobility: This initiative exempts employers from the LMIA when hiring Francophone or bilingual temporary foreign workers outside Quebec.

What Happens After LMIA is Approved?

Upon the approval of a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), the following LMIA process for Canada will happen.

• LMIA Approval Time: Employers will receive a letter confirming the LMIA application's approval after the LMIA processing time in 2024. As of October 31, 2023, this positive LMIA remains valid for 12 months from the date of issue.

• Sending Documents to the Foreign Worker: After the LMIA application is endorsed, employers forward a copy of the approval letter and Annex A to the foreign worker.

• Work Permit Application: Armed with these documents, the foreign worker proceeds to apply for a work permit. Processing times for work permits may vary depending on the submission location of the application.

Optimizing Your Application for Expediting Your Canada LMIA Processing Time

While understanding LMIA's importance is one thing, the biggest challenge however lies in your efforts to obtain a neutral or positive assessment report, along with ensuring effective navigation - fast and smooth LMIA processing time in Canada.

Overwhelmed by the LMIA application process? Fret not! Because you are not alone. At GetGIS, our immigration experts will guide you at every step. From eligibility assessment to application submission, we ensure efficiency and effectiveness.

Don't let Application complexity hinder your goals - contact us today and let’s achieve success together. Book Your Free Consultation

Useful Links: For Further

What is Canadian PR & Benefits of it for an Indian?

New Immigration Rules of Canada | Level Plans 2023-25

2024 Guide on How to Get an Employment Reference Letter for Canada PR