An LMIA is a document that Canadian employers may need to acquire before hiring a foreign worker. Issued by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), this assessment determines the impact of hiring a foreign worker on the Canadian labor market. For employers, understanding the labour market impact assessment processing time is essential, as it affects the overall hiring timeline.

A positive LMIA indicates that there is a genuine need for a foreign worker to fill the position because no Canadian workers are available to do the job. This document is also vital for foreign workers applying for a Canadian work permit. By being aware of the processing timeline, employers can strategically plan their recruitment processes.

Navigating the labour market impact assessment processing time requires a clear understanding of the overall LMIA process. The processing time can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the LMIA stream you are applying for, the region, and the completeness of your submission.

When Processing Starts and Ends

The processing of an LMIA application starts once a complete application is submitted. For the LMIA application to be considered complete, employers must:

• Provide all necessary documents for the relevant LMIA stream (e.g., high-wage, low-wage, agricultural streams).
• Sign and submit all required forms.
• Pay the applicable processing fee.

Once all requirements are fulfilled, ESDC will start reviewing the application. The processing ends when Service Canada issues a decision letter that either approves or denies the LMIA application.

Step-by-Step Overview of the LMIA Process

Understanding the step-by-step LMIA process is crucial for minimizing delays. Below is an overview:

1. Identify the Relevant NOC Code: Choose the appropriate National Occupational Classification (NOC) code for the position, as this will determine the LMIA requirements and processing time.
2. Wage Determination: Set the wage rate based on the median wage in your region, which will classify the job as high-wage or low-wage.
3. Job Posting Requirements: Advertise the job as per ESDC’s guidelines, which includes job platforms and duration. This step is crucial and can impact the overall labour market impact assessment processing time.
4. Submit the LMIA Application: Gather all necessary documents, including proof of job advertisements, and submit your application to Service Canada.
5. Await Decision: Once submitted, the labour market impact assessment processing time can range from a few weeks to several months, depending on various factors.

By understanding each step of the LMIA process, employers can better anticipate potential delays and plan accordingly.

Several factors contribute to the variability of LMIA processing times, including the type of LMIA stream, application accuracy, regional factors, and external events. Below are the key elements to consider:

Type of LMIA Stream

The LMIA processing time differs based on the stream under which you are applying:

• Global Talent Stream: The fastest processing time, typically completed within 10 business days.
• Agricultural Stream: Generally quick but can vary depending on the specific season and region.
• High-Wage and Low-Wage Streams: These streams can take several weeks to months to process.
• Permanent Resident Stream: This is the most time-consuming, often taking several months to process.

Completeness and Accuracy of Application

Applications that are incomplete or contain errors are a common cause of delays. Ensure that all necessary documents are included and that your application is error-free to avoid unnecessary hold-ups.

Regional and Seasonal Variations

LMIA processing times can also differ depending on the region and time of year. Certain provinces may have higher application volumes, which could lead to delays, especially during peak hiring seasons.

External Factors (e.g., COVID-19)

External events such as the COVID-19 pandemic can significantly affect the LMIA processing timeline. Employers should remain updated on any such developments to adjust their expectations accordingly.

As of 2024, LMIA processing times vary based on the stream and region. Here’s a breakdown of average processing times across different streams:

Global Talent Stream Processing Time

• Average processing time: 7 to 10 business days.
• Best for: Employers needing quick approvals for highly skilled positions.

Agricultural Stream Processing Time

• Average processing time: 10 to 14 business days.
• Best for: Seasonal agricultural work.

High-Wage and Low-Wage Streams

• Average processing time: 8 to 12 weeks.
• Processing times may extend due to application volume and regional factors.

Permanent Resident Stream

• Average processing time: 12 to 16 weeks.
• This stream typically requires the most detailed assessment, making it one of the longest to process.

Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program

• Average processing time: 6 to 8 business days.
• This stream is prioritized due to the timing of seasonal work.

These times are average estimates and may vary based on application completeness, region, and unforeseen factors. It’s crucial to stay updated with ESDC for the latest processing time estimates.

Beyond processing time, employers should also be aware of the financial obligations associated with the LMIA process.

Application Fee

The standard fee for an LMIA application is CAD $1,000 per position, which is non-refundable, even if the application is denied.

Advertisement Costs

Employers must advertise the job on specific platforms as part of the application process, which can cost between CAD $500 and CAD $1,000, depending on the method and duration.

Legal and Consultancy Fees

Employers who choose to hire legal professionals or consultants to assist with their LMIA application can expect fees ranging from CAD $3,000 to $7,000.

Recruitment Costs

Employers who utilize recruitment agencies to meet LMIA requirements may incur additional costs, particularly if an extensive search is required to find suitable candidates.