LMIA Application Canada
A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) lets a Canadian employer hire a foreign worker when no Canadian is available. We guide employers and workers through LMIA requirements, documentation and the application process.
What is an LMIA?
A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a document a Canadian employer may need before hiring a foreign worker. A positive LMIA shows there is a need for a foreign worker and that no Canadian worker is available to fill the job. Many employer-specific work permits depend on a positive LMIA.
Employer-driven
The employer applies to Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC).
Supports a work permit
A positive LMIA supports an employer-specific work permit application.
A step toward PR
LMIA-backed work experience can strengthen some permanent residency pathways.
LMIA streams
LMIAs vary by the position, wage and industry. Understanding the streams helps you apply the right way.
High-Wage & Low-Wage
LMIA requirements differ based on the position's wage relative to the provincial median.
Global Talent Stream
Faster processing for eligible in-demand and technology occupations.
Agricultural & Seasonal
Dedicated streams for primary agriculture and seasonal roles.
How the LMIA process works
We guide employers and workers through each stage with clear, personalized support.
Assess the position
Confirm the role, wage, NOC/TEER and stream.
Recruitment
Meet the advertising and recruitment requirements.
Prepare the LMIA
Compile the application and supporting documents.
Submit to ESDC
File the LMIA application and pay the fee.
Decision
Receive a positive or negative LMIA.
Work permit
The worker applies for an employer-specific work permit.
What you may need
Requirements vary by situation. Below are commonly requested documents.
Employer documents
- Business legitimacy documents
- Job offer and wage details
- Proof of recruitment
Position details
- Job description
- NOC / TEER code
- Work location and hours
Recruitment proof
- Advertising records
- Results of the recruitment effort
Worker documents
- Passport
- Qualifications and experience
Who this is for
These profiles commonly apply with our support.
Canadian employers
Employers who need to hire a foreign worker.
Workers with a job offer
Workers with an offer that requires an LMIA.
Skilled trades
Employers filling skilled roles.
Tech & in-demand roles
Positions eligible for the Global Talent Stream.
Agriculture
Primary agriculture positions.
Caregivers
Eligible caregiver roles.
LMIA questions
How long does an LMIA take?
Processing times vary by stream and current ESDC timelines; the Global Talent Stream is generally faster.
Does every work permit need an LMIA?
No. Many employer-specific permits need one, but LMIA-exempt categories and open work permits do not.
Who pays the LMIA fee?
The employer generally pays the LMIA processing fee, and it cannot be passed on to the worker.
Can an LMIA lead to PR?
LMIA-backed work and a valid job offer can add points or support certain permanent residency pathways.
Can Lifeline help both employer and worker?
Yes. We guide employers on the LMIA and workers on the resulting work permit application.
Start your LMIA application
Get licensed guidance on LMIA requirements and the work permit that follows.