LMIA – Labour Market Impact Assessment

What is a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)?

The Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is an official document issued by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). It authorizes Canadian employers to hire foreign workers when they are unable to fill job vacancies with Canadian citizens or permanent residents. The LMIA process ensures that hiring foreign talent will not negatively impact the local labour market.

How Does the LMIA Work?

1. Job Advertising:
   Employers must advertise the job on multiple platforms, such as job portals, newspapers, and employment websites, for at least one month to prove that no suitable Canadian candidate is available.

2. Application for LMIA:
   If no qualified Canadian is found, the employer can apply for an LMIA, allowing them to hire a foreign worker.

3. NOC Classification:
   The job must be listed in the National Occupation Classification (NOC) system, which categorizes jobs based on skill level and industry.

4. Tax Compliance:
   Employers must be regular taxpayers in Canada and demonstrate compliance with Canadian labour laws.

Importance of LMIA for Canada Immigration

• Work Permit: A positive LMIA is required for foreign workers to secure a Canada work permit and support their job offer.
• Express Entry Points: Candidates in the Express Entry pool can receive additional points on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) if their job offer is backed by a positive LMIA, increasing their chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.
• Faster Immigration: A valid LMIA helps expedite the visa application process, enabling faster migration through official channels.