Most employers need an LMIA before they can hire a foreign worker in Canada. The LMIA shows the Canadian government that hiring a foreign worker will not negatively impact the Canadian labour market by displacing Canadian and permanent resident workers or by decreasing their wage.

Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)

What you need to know

Temporary Foreign Worker Program and

Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIA)

What is an LMIA?

A positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a document that allows employers in Canada to hire a foreign worker. It is issued by the Canadian government and confirms there is a need for the foreign worker and no Canadian workers are available to fill the position.

After you apply for an LMIA and pay a fee, the government will assess your application and either approve or deny it. If the LMIA is approved, the foreign worker can apply for a work permit. We can advise on how to prepare a compliant LMIA application and best present your case.

Do I need an LMIA?

Most employers require an LMIA before they can hire a temporary foreign worker in Canada. It is up to the employer, not the foreign worker, to apply and pay for the LMIA.

How do I get an LMIA?

To obtain a positive LMIA, you must prove your need for a temporary foreign worker in Canada and that no Canadians or permanent residents are available to do the job. You must also prove you’re offering a salary above the median prevailing wage for the position. LMIA applications are made to Service Canada (ESDC) under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP).

How do I determine the median prevailing wage?

To find the median prevailing wage for a position, first, find the National Occupational Classification (NOC) for the position on the Government of Canada’s NOC website. Next, search for the job using the NOC and the relevant location on the Government of Canada's Job Bank. The median prevailing wage is listed in the middle column. If it is not listed, consult the provincial/territorial wage.