What is an LMIA? How is an LMIA different from other work permits?

An LMIA, or Labour Market Impact Assessment, is a document issued by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) or (Service Canada as we call it) that assesses the impact of hiring a foreign worker on the Canadian labour market. Most Canadian employers who wish to hire foreign workers through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) have to apply for an LMIA.

LMIA is usually used when an employee applies for an employer specific work permit/Closed work permits.

Here's how an LMIA differs from other work permits:

v  LMIA Requirement: For most foreign workers, an employer must obtain a positive LMIA before the worker can apply for a work permit. The LMIA demonstrates that the employer has made efforts to hire a Canadian citizen or permanent resident but has been unable to find a suitable candidate, and therefore needs to hire a foreign worker.

v  Validity and Specificity: An LMIA is specific to the employer, job position, and location. It typically has an expiry date and cannot be transferred to a different employer or job. Other types of work permits, such as Post Graduate Work Permit, or Spousal Open Work Permits, and those issued through international agreements like NAFTA (now USMCA) or through intra-company transfers, may not require an LMIA and may have different validity periods and conditions.

v  Eligibility Criteria: To obtain an LMIA, the employer must meet certain eligibility criteria set by ESDC, including demonstrating efforts to recruit Canadians or permanent residents, providing fair wages and working conditions, and complying with all relevant laws and regulations. Other eligibility criteria for other work permits vary depending on the specific program or agreement under which they are issued.

v  Processing Time: Obtaining an LMIA can be a lengthy process, as it involves advertising the job position, waiting for responses from potential Canadian candidates, and submitting evidence of recruitment efforts to ESDC for assessment. Other types of work permits may have shorter processing times.

 

  I   v  Impact on Permanent Residence: Having a job offer supported by a positive LMIA can be beneficial for foreign workers who wish to apply for permanent residence in Canada through programs like Express Entry. Certain LMIA-supported job offers may award additional points in the Express Entry CRS score ( 50 points or 200 points), potentially improving the candidate's chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.

If you need assistance or information in filing your LMIA application , Reach out to us or Book a Consultation with us at -Blue Vervain Immigration Services Inc.

Call/ Whatsapp : +16475621925

Instagram: @bluevervainimmigration

Email: [email protected]

Web: www.bluevervain.ca

NOTE:- We DO NOT provide Job Assistance and we DO NOT help in hiring foreign workers. We only prepare applications for LMIA if you already have a job offer from an employer.