Work Permit (LMIA-Exempt or LMIA-Based)
- Fastest Option: Global Talent Stream (GTS) – 2 weeks (for tech workers).
Requirements:
- Job offer from a Canadian employer
- – LMIA
- – Proof of qualifications (degree, experience)
- Language Certificate IELTS
- Biometrics & medical exam (if needed
The Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) Work Permit allows foreign workers to work in Canada when no Canadian citizens or permanent residents are available for the job. Below is a detailed breakdown of the LMIA process, eligible jobs, fees, and requirements.
What is an LMIA Work Permit? An LMIA is a document that proves a Canadian employer needs a foreign worker because no qualified Canadians are available.
- Closed Work Permit: Tied to one employer.
- Validity: Usually 1-2 years (can be extended).
- Processing Time: 1-3 months(faster under Global Talent Stream – 2 weeks).
LMIA Work Permit Requirements
1. For Employers
- ✔Prove efforts to hire Canadians first (job ads, interviews).
- ✔ Offer prevailing wage (as per Job Bank data).
- ✔ Pay compliance fees ($1,000 per worker).
- ✔ Submit a detailed job offer (duties, salary, benefits).
2. For Foreign Workers
- ✔ Valid job offer from a Canadian employer.
- ✔ Relevant experience & qualifications(matching the job).
- ✔ No criminal record (police clearance required).
- ✔ Medical exam (if working in health/childcare).
LMIA-Eligible Jobs List (High-Demand Occupations) Jobs that commonly get LMIA approval include:
🔹 Tech & IT Jobs
- – Software Engineers & Developers
- – Data Scientists & AI Specialists
- – Cybersecurity Experts
- – Cloud Computing Specialists
🔹 Skilled Trades
- – Welders & Metal Fabricators
- – Electricians & Plumbers
- – Heavy-Duty Mechanics
🔹 Healthcare & Caregiving
- – Nurses (RNs, LPNs)
- – Physicians & Surgeons
- – Caregivers (Home Support Workers)
🔹 Engineering & Construction
- – Civil Engineers
- – Architects
- – Project Managers
🔹Hospitality & Food Industry
- – Chefs & Cooks (especially in high-demand provinces)
- – Restaurant Managers
Full LMIA-Eligible Jobs List: [Canada’s Job Bank – Eligible Occupations](https://www.jobbank.gc.ca/home)
LMIA Work Permit Application Process
Step 1: Employer Applies for LMIA
- – Submits LMIA application to Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC).
- – Includes:
- – Proof of recruitment efforts (job ads, interview records).
- – Job offer details (salary, duties, contract).
- – **$1,000 LMIA fee** (unless exempt)
Step 2: LMIA Approval
- Takes 1-3 months (faster under Global Talent Stream).
- – If approved, the employer gets a positive LMIA.
Step 3: Worker Applies for Work Permit
- Submits: – Job offer letter + positive LMIA
- – Proof of qualifications (degrees, experience letters)
- – Passport & biometrics
- – Police clearance & medical exam(if required)
Step 4: Work Permit Issued
- Processing time: 1-3 months (varies by country).
- – Worker can move to Canada and start working.
LMIA & Work Permit Fees
- | Fee Type | Cost (CAD)| |————-|————–|
- LMIA Processing Fee (Employer Pays) | $1,000 |
- Work Permit Application Fee | $155
- Biometrics Fee| $85
- Open Work Permit Holder Fee (if applicable) | $100
- Medical Exam (if required) | $200-$300 |
- Total Cost**: ~$1,340 – $1,640 CAD
How to Speed Up the Process
- Apply under Global Talent Stream (GTS)
- 2-week LMIA processing. ✔
- Ensure all documents are complete (missing files cause delays).
- ✔ Hire an immigration lawyer (for complex cases).
Can LMIA Lead to Permanent Residency (PR)?
- Yes! An LMIA job can help with:
- – Express Entry (FSW/CEC)
- – Extra 50-200 CRS points. – Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
- Many provinces prioritize LMIA holders.
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC) After 1 year of work.
⚠️ Common LMIA Rejection Reasons
- ❌ Employer didn’t prove recruitment efforts.
- ❌ Job offer salary below market rate.
- ❌ Worker lacks required qualifications.
- ❌ Incomplete application.
Final Tips for Success
- ✔ Find a genuine employer (avoid scams).
- ✔ Ensure the job matches your experience.
- ✔ Apply under GTS if in tech (fastest option).
