Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA):

An LMIA is a crucial step for employers who want to hire temporary foreign workers in Canada. It confirms that there is a genuine need for a foreign worker because no Canadian citizens or permanent residents are available for the job.

Employers must apply for an LMIA through Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). The process varies depending on the specific program (e.g., hiring high-wage or low-wage workers, seasonal agricultural workers, or workers through the Agricultural Stream).

Once an LMIA is approved, employers provide a copy of the confirmation letter to each foreign worker. The worker can then apply for a work permit.

Hiring with an LMIA:

If an employer needs an LMIA, they follow the process outlined above. The positive LMIA (sometimes called a confirmation letter) is included in the worker’s application for a Temporary Work Permit.

A single LMIA can cover one or multiple employees, provided they fill identical positions based on the Canadian National Occupation Classification.

Hiring without an LMIA (International Mobility Program):

The International Mobility Program allows employers to hire temporary foreign workers without an LMIA. Employers must check the LMIA exemption code that matches their job posting.

When hiring through this program, employers pay an employer compliance fee and submit an offer of employment form through the Employer Portal. The worker can then apply for a work permit.

Francophone Mobility, under the IMP, offers an LMIA exemption for hiring Francophone or bilingual workers outside Quebec, promoting language diversity across the country

Work Permits:

A work permit is an official document issued by a country’s government that allows foreign nationals to work legally within its borders. Key points about work permits include:

Purpose: Work permits are granted for specific job positions, industries, or durations. They enable foreign workers to contribute to the local economy while adhering to immigration regulations.

Eligibility Criteria:

Applicants must have a job offer from a Canadian employer (or an LMIA, if required).

Work permits may be open or employer-specific, depending on the circumstances.

Application Process:

Employers apply for an LMIA (if needed) or submit an offer of employment.

Workers apply for a work permit, providing necessary documents and paying fees.

Duration and Renewal:

Work permits have validity periods (e.g., 1–3 years).

Extensions or renewals are possible, subject to eligibility and compliance.

Remember that work permits are essential for foreign workers to legally work in Canada.