LMIA Work Permit in Canada 2026: Employer & Worker Guide
Navigate the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) process for Canada work permits in 2026. Learn eligibility, streams, costs, and steps for employers and workers. Start your Canada work visa journey today! IRCC Official Guide
Overview of LMIA Work Permits 2026
A key step for hiring foreign workers in Canada
What is an LMIA?
A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a document that Canadian employers may need to hire foreign workers under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). It proves no Canadian citizen or permanent resident is available for the job. An approved LMIA allows workers to apply for a Canada work visa, potentially leading to permanent residence via Express Entry. Learn More
Employers
Hire foreign workers to fill labor shortages.
- Prove recruitment efforts
- Meet wage requirements
- Submit LMIA application
Workers
Secure a Canada work permit with an LMIA.
- Job offer required
- Language proficiency
- Work experience
Express Entry Boost
LMIA jobs add points to your CRS score.
- 50-200 CRS points
- Faster PR processing
- High-wage positions
LMIA Streams for 2026
Overview of key LMIA streams for employers and workers
| Stream | Purpose | Eligibility Highlights | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| High-Wage Stream | Jobs paying above provincial median wage | Recruitment efforts, prevailing wage, transition plan | 6-10 weeks |
| Low-Wage Stream | Jobs paying below provincial median wage | Cap on foreign workers (10-20%), housing support | 8-12 weeks |
| Global Talent Stream | Tech and innovative roles | In-demand occupations (e.g., NOC 21211), Labour Market Benefits Plan | 2-4 weeks |
| Agricultural Stream | Farming and primary agriculture roles | Production requirements, housing, seasonal workers | 8-12 weeks |
| Caregiver Stream | In-home caregivers for children/elderly | Job offer, CLB 5, 1-year experience | 10-14 weeks |
Key Notes
- High-wage stream supports Express Entry with 50-200 CRS points.
- Global Talent Stream prioritizes tech roles, with faster processing.
- Employers must comply with TFWP regulations, including workplace safety.
- Check Median Wages
LMIA Application Process
Steps for employers and workers to secure an LMIA work permit
Step 1: Employer Recruitment
Advertise the job for 4 weeks to prove no Canadians are available. Use Job Bank or equivalent.
Step 2: Submit LMIA Application
Employer submits LMIA to ESDC via LMIA Online Portal. Fee: $1,000 CAD per position.
Step 3: LMIA Approval
ESDC assesses impact on labor market; issues positive or negative LMIA.
Step 4: Worker Applies for Permit
Worker uses positive LMIA to apply for a work permit via IRCC. Processing: 2-8 weeks.
Common Application Mistakes
- Inadequate recruitment efforts (e.g., not advertising on Job Bank)
- Incorrect NOC code (use NOC 2021)
- Missing documents (e.g., job offer, business legitimacy proof)
- Tip: Consult a RCIC for compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions (20)
Answers to common LMIA work permit questions for 2026
A work permit supported by a Labour Market Impact Assessment, required for most TFWP jobs.
Employers hiring foreign workers under TFWP, unless exempt (e.g., NAFTA, GATS).
$1,000 CAD per position; work permit fee: $155 CAD.
2-14 weeks, depending on the stream (e.g., Global Talent: 2-4 weeks).
No, exemptions apply for intra-company transfers, international agreements, or open work permits.
No, only employers can apply; workers use the approved LMIA for a work permit.
A fast-track LMIA for tech and innovative roles, with 2-4 week processing.
High-wage: above provincial median; low-wage: below, with stricter caps.
Yes, via Express Entry (50-200 CRS points) or PNP streams.
Job offer, recruitment proof, business legitimacy, wage details.
A plan to reduce reliance on foreign workers, required for high-wage streams.
No formal appeal, but you can request a review or reapply.
The median wage for a job in a region, set by ESDC. Check Wages
Yes, for in-home caregiver roles, unless transitioning to PR.
Employers must advertise on Job Bank for 4 weeks to prove recruitment efforts.
Only with a valid work permit or implied status.
A plan for Global Talent Stream to show benefits to Canada’s economy.
Yes, for roles under international agreements or significant benefit categories.
Match job type, wage, and industry to streams; consult ESDC guidelines.
No, LMIAs are employer-specific; a new LMIA is needed.
🎯 Expert Immigration Consultation
Need help navigating the LMIA process or applying for a Canada work visa? Contact a licensed immigration consultant for personalized guidance on your journey to work in Canada.
