Lmia Canada: Processing Time And Requirements

By Author: Sanjay Yadav
Total Articles: 26
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Looking to work abroad from India?

If you are looking to Work Abroad from India, Canada is one of the top destinations for skilled workers. LMIA can be the perfect solution for it. An LMIA is a document that is required by a Canadian employer before hiring a foreign worker.

LMIA serves as a means for the government to ensure that bringing in foreign workers does not negatively impact the job market. Below is a comprehensive guide about LMIA, its processing time, and other essential requirements for those aiming to work in Canada.

What is LMIA?

A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a document issued by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) that allows Canadian employers to hire foreign workers. The purpose of the LMIA is to verify that there is a genuine need for a foreign worker and that hiring them will not negatively affect the Canadian job market.

Step-by-Step Process to Get a Canada LMIA

The LMIA is a key component of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program. ...
... The steps to get an LMIA Work Permit are as follows:

Step 1: Identify the relevant NOC for the occupation and determine the wage rate.
Step 2: Draft a job posting according to the program requirements.
Step 3: Advertise the position for at least 30 days and interview the local applicants.
Step 4: Collect documents and submit the LMIA application.
Step 5: Pay the application fees for LMIA and attend an interview with an EDSC officer.

LMIA Processing Time in 2025

Generally, the processing time can range from a few weeks to months. The Canada LMIA processing time can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of job being offered and the volume of applications being processed by ESDC. On average, the processing time for an LMIA is around 8 to 12 weeks in 2025. However, it is important to keep in mind that some cases may take longer, especially if there are additional assessments required or if the employer needs to provide additional documentation.

Cost of LMIA Application

Employers must understand that they are legally obligated to bear all the costs related to the LMIA application. Canadian law strictly prohibits employers from passing these costs on to foreign workers, whether directly or indirectly.

This prohibition includes charges for recruitment, job orientation, First Aid training, and any other related fees. Additionally, ensure that recruiters and third-party individuals assist in the hiring process of foreign workers under any pretext.

The cost to apply for an LMIA is CAD 1,000 per application. This fee is typically paid by the employer, although in some cases, the worker may be required to cover this cost. The fee is non-refundable, even if the LMIA application is denied.

Employer Requirements for LMIA

To be eligible for an LMIA, the Canadian employer must meet the following requirements:

Offer a Full-Time, Permanent Job: The position must be permanent and full-time, meaning the worker will be employed for at least 30 hours per week.

Wages and Working Conditions: The wages offered must meet the prevailing wage rate for the job in the specific region where the employer is located.

Recruitment Efforts: The employer must demonstrate that they have made sufficient efforts to hire Canadian citizens or permanent residents for the position before seeking a foreign worker.

Compliance with Canadian Labor Laws: Employers must comply with all relevant Canadian labor laws, including workplace safety standards.

Provide a Positive Impact on the Canadian Job Market: The employer must show that hiring a foreign worker will positively impact the local labor market and economy.

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