Work in Canada with Employer Support
A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) work permit is one of the most common ways to work in Canada. It shows that a Canadian employer genuinely needs a foreign worker for a specific role.
Apply for LMIA Work PermitProcess
Get Hired
Find Canadian Job
Step 1
Employer Gets LMIA
Step 2
Apply for Permit
Step 3
Start Working
Goal
LMIA Work Permit
A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a document that a Canadian employer may need to obtain from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) before hiring a foreign worker.
A positive LMIA confirms there is a genuine need for a foreign worker and no Canadian citizen or permanent resident is available to fill the position. Once the employer has a positive LMIA, the foreign worker can apply for a work permit.
Employer-Specific
This is a closed work permit tied to a specific employer, occupation and location in Canada.
Positive LMIA Required
The Canadian employer must first obtain a positive LMIA from ESDC before you can apply for the work permit.
Duration Varies
Work permit duration is typically tied to the job offer. Extensions may be available depending on circumstances.
Pathway to PR
Work experience gained on an LMIA work permit can count towards Express Entry, PNP, or other PR streams.
Spouse Work Permit
Your spouse or common-law partner may be eligible for an open work permit to work anywhere in Canada.
All Skill Levels
LMIA-based permits are available for high-skill and low-skill occupations, including trades, healthcare, agriculture and more.
HOW IT WORKS
Employer Applies for LMIA
The Canadian employer advertises the position, proves no Canadian is available, and applies for a positive LMIA from ESDC.
Worker Applies for Permit
With a positive LMIA and a valid job offer, the foreign worker applies for a work permit from IRCC.
Arrive & Start Work
Upon approval, the foreign worker enters Canada and begins working for the specified employer.
Common
Questions
LMIA Work Permit Insights
