For Foreign Workers
LMIA Guide for Foreign Workers
Step-by-step guidance for foreign nationals seeking LMIA-backed employment in Canada, tailored to your nationality.
By Nationality
Select Your Country
Nigerians
Growing source of skilled workers
View guide →Indians
Largest source country for TFWs
View guide →Filipinos
Strong caregiving & healthcare pipeline
View guide →UAE Residents
Skilled professionals seeking stability
View guide →Americans
CUSMA pathways available
View guide →Mexicans
SAWP & skilled worker streams
View guide →Kenyans
Emerging source country
View guide →Europeans
CETA & IEC pathways
View guide →How It Works
The LMIA Process
1
Find an Employer
Search for Canadian employers with positive LMIA approvals or active Job Bank postings.
2
Employer Applies for LMIA
Your Canadian employer submits an LMIA application to ESDC demonstrating need for a foreign worker.
3
Receive Positive LMIA
Once approved, the employer receives a positive LMIA confirming no Canadian worker is available.
4
Apply for Work Permit
Use the positive LMIA to apply for a Canadian work permit through IRCC.