Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)

The Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is an approval document issued by the Government of Canada that employers must obtain before hiring a foreign worker. It proves that the job cannot be filled by Canadian citizens or permanent residents.

📌 LMIA Application Process

✔ Employer submits LMIA application The Canadian employer applies to Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) and demonstrates genuine efforts to recruit locally (e.g., posting job ads).

✔ Government review ESDC evaluates whether hiring a foreign worker will negatively impact the Canadian labor market.

✔ Issuance of Positive LMIA If approved, the foreign worker can use this document to apply for a work permit.

📌 Benefits and Impact of LMIA

🔹 Higher work permit approval rate

Employer-specific work permits generally require a Positive LMIA.

🔹 Extra CRS points for immigration

In the Express Entry system, a job offer supported by LMIA provides additional points, significantly improving chances of receiving an invitation to apply (ITA).

🔹 Eligibility for PR programs

LMIA can help applicants qualify for Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) or the Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) stream.

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