🇨🇦 LMIA Work Permit Visa – Canada Immigration Guide

What is a LMIA Work Permit Visa?

A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) Work Permit is a type of Canadian work visa that requires an employer in Canada to first obtain government approval to hire a foreign worker. This assessment ensures that no Canadian citizen or permanent resident is available to fill the job.

Once the employer receives a positive LMIA, the foreign worker can apply for a closed work permit tied to that specific employer and job.

Who Needs an LMIA?

  • Foreign nationals who do not qualify under LMIA-exempt categories (e.g., NAFTA, intra-company transfers)
  • Applicants seeking employer-specific work permits
  • Employers wanting to hire a foreign worker for high-demand or hard-to-fill occupations

How to Apply for an LMIA Work Permit

Step 1: Employer Applies for LMIA

  • Submit application to Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC)
  • Pay government processing fee of $1,000 CAD per position
  • Demonstrate efforts to hire Canadians first
  • Wait for LMIA approval (positive decision)

Step 2: Foreign Worker Applies for Work Permit

  • Use the approved LMIA and job offer letter
  • Apply online or at a Visa Application Centre (VAC)
  • Provide biometrics, medical exams (if required), and other documentation

Processing Times (2025 Estimates)

Stage Estimated Time
LMIA Application (Employer) 4–12 weeks
Work Permit Application (Worker) 4–8 weeks (varies by country)
Total Estimated Time 2–4 months

Government Fees

Fee Type Cost (CAD)
LMIA Application (per job position) $1,000
Work Permit Application (per applicant) $155
Biometrics (per applicant) $85
Medical Exam (if required) $200–$300 (varies by country)

Immigration Consultant Agency Fees (Typical in 2025)

Service Fee Range (CAD)
LMIA Application Assistance (Employer) $1,500 – $3,000
Work Permit Application (Worker) $800 – $2,000
Full Package (LMIA + Work Permit) $2,500 – $5,000

Example – Lawseph & Associates Inc.:

  • $2,500 flat fee for complete LMIA + Work Permit application package
  • Installment plans available (e.g., 5 x $500)
  • Government fees and biometrics excluded

Further Reading (Official)

FAQs

Is a job offer enough for the work permit?

For an employer-specific permit, the employer usually also needs a positive LMIA. (Some roles are LMIA-exempt under the IMP.)

Can I get a 2-week decision?

Possibly, if you meet Global Skills Strategy criteria (e.g., outside Canada, TEER 0/1, GTS LMIA or LMIA-exempt with Employer Portal offer). IRCC currently cautions that some GSS files take longer than 2 weeks.

Will an LMIA help my PR chances?

Yes. A qualifying job offer can raise CRS points in Express Entry or support PNP nomination—both can accelerate PR.

How does Lawseph reduce refusal risk?

We build a persuasive case theory, ensure wage/NOC compliance, audit all forms and proofs, and respond quickly to document requests.

Why Hire an Immigration Consultant?

  • Increases chance of approval
  • Avoids errors or incomplete documentation
  • Support with refusal reapplications
  • Access to custom letters of explanation
  • Professional document checklists

Benefits of LMIA Work Permit

  • Gives access to long-term employment in Canada
  • Can lead to permanent residency through Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs
  • Spouse and children may be eligible to accompany (open work permit / study permit)

Important Notes

  • Work permit is employer-specific – changing employers requires a new LMIA
  • Some sectors (e.g., agriculture, caregiving, construction, transport) have high LMIA demand
  • Employers must meet advertising and compliance requirements

Best regards,

Lawseph & Associates Inc.
Licensed RCIC Immigration Consultants
432-100 Richmond St. W., Toronto, ON, M5H-3K6
📞 416-962-3334 |
🌐 lawsephandassociates.com