LMIA-Supported Work Permit

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LMIA-Supported Work Permit

An LMIA-supported work permit, issued through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), allows foreign workers to legally work in Canada after their employer obtains a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), confirming that hiring a foreign worker won’t negatively affect the Canadian job market.

What is an LMIA?

A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a document Canadian employers may need before they can hire a foreign worker. A positive LMIA confirms that the job requires a foreign worker because no Canadian citizen or permanent resident is available to fill the position. This approval is sometimes called a confirmation letter.

If an LMIA is required, the employer must apply for it. Once approved, the foreign worker can use it to apply for a work permit. To do that, the worker needs a job offer, a contract, the work permit support letter (WPSL), and the LMIA number.

LMIA-Supported Work Permit Requirements

To apply for a LMIA-supported Work Permit, you must meet the following criteria:

Valid Job Offer & LMIA

Foreign workers must secure a valid job offer from a Canadian employer supported by a positive LMIA. This confirms the employer couldn’t find a suitable Canadian or permanent resident. The LMIA acts as approval to proceed with the application.

Meeting Job Requirements

Workers must meet the qualifications specified in the job offer, such as education, experience, and any necessary certifications. Providing proof of these qualifications, like diplomas and employment records, is a key part of the application.

Language Proficiency

Foreign workers may need to show language proficiency in either English or French, depending on the job. Tests like the IELTS, CELPIP, or PTE Core for English or TEF Canada or TCF Canada for French may be required to prove language skills.

Medical Examination

In some cases, a medical exam is necessary, especially for jobs in healthcare, teaching, or childcare. This exam ensures that workers meet Canadian health standards and can safely perform their duties.

Police Clearance

A police clearance certificate, is required from countries where the worker has lived for six months or more since the age of 18 . This ensures the worker has no criminal history that would make them inadmissible to Canada.

Processing Fee

Finally, the processing fees must be paid when submitting the work permit application. The fees are typically CAD 155 for a work permit and CAD 85 for Biometrics, though it is important to check the latest fees before applying.

How to Apply for a LMIA-Supported work permit

Applying for an LMIA-supported work permit requires following a structured process by both the employer and the foreign worker. Here’s a brief 5-step guide to help you through it.

Employer Applies for LMIA

The employer must submit an application for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC)/Services Canada. This step requires proving that there are no qualified Canadian citizens or permanent residents available to fill the position, and that hiring a foreign worker will not negatively impact the local job market.

Receive Positive LMIA

Once ESDC/Service Canada reviews the application, the employer will receive a decision. If approved, the employer gets a positive LMIA; which confirms that the employer is permitted to hire a foreign worker. The LMIA includes details like the position offered, wages, and working conditions, validating the need for a foreign worker.

Obtain a Job Offer and LMIA Document

With a positive LMIA obtained, the employer can extend a formal job offer to the foreign worker. The job offer and LMIA document must be shared with the foreign worker, as these are required when they apply for a work permit, proving the legitimacy of the employment opportunity.

Submit Your Work Permit Application

The foreign worker then applies for a work permit, including the job offer, positive LMIA, and other supporting documents such as passport, employment records, diplomas, language proficiency test results, medical exam (if applicable), police clearances, etc. This must be done online via your IRCC secure account (GC Key system).

Await a Decision on Your Work Permit

After the application is submitted, the foreign worker must wait for a decision from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). If approved, they will receive their work permit, authorizing them to work in Canada under the conditions specified in the LMIA and job offer.

Securing an LMIA-supported work permit can be complicated, involving detailed paperwork, employer documentation, and meeting specific immigration requirements. Cantrust Visa streamlines the process for you, ensuring your application is accurate and complete, so you can focus on starting your new job in Canada without unnecessary delays.

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