2026 Guide

LMIA Application Guide: How to Apply for a Labour Market Impact Assessment

Everything Canadian employers need to know about applying for a Labour Market Impact Assessment, from eligibility and documents to fees and processing.

What Is an LMIA?

A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a document issued by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) that a Canadian employer may need before hiring a foreign worker. A positive LMIA confirms that there is a need for a temporary foreign worker to fill the position and that no Canadian worker or permanent resident is available to do the job.

The LMIA process is designed to protect the Canadian labour market while allowing employers to address genuine labour shortages. Once an employer receives a positive LMIA, the foreign worker can apply for a work permit through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Who Needs an LMIA?

Employer Perspective

Canadian employers who want to hire a temporary foreign worker for a position that is not covered by an LMIA exemption must apply for an LMIA. This applies to businesses of all sizes, from small family operations to large corporations, across every province and territory.

Worker Perspective

Foreign workers do not apply for the LMIA themselves — the employer does. However, workers should understand the process because a positive LMIA is often required before they can apply for a work permit. You can search for employers who have already received positive LMIAs.

Some programs are LMIA-exempt, including intra-company transfers, CUSMA (formerly NAFTA) professionals, international agreements, and certain Provincial Nominee Program streams.

Step-by-Step LMIA Application Process

Determine if You Need an LMIA

Confirm that the position requires an LMIA. Some work permit streams (e.g., intra-company transfers, CUSMA professionals) are LMIA-exempt.

Advertise the Position

Post the job on Job Bank Canada and at least two other recruitment platforms for a minimum of four consecutive weeks to demonstrate that no qualified Canadian or permanent resident is available.

Prepare Your Application Package

Gather all required documents including the completed LMIA application form (EMP5593), proof of recruitment efforts, business legitimacy documents, and a transition plan (if applicable).

Submit to ESDC

Submit the completed application and supporting documents to Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) via the LMIA Online Portal or by mail.

Pay the Processing Fee

Pay the $1,000 processing fee per position requested. This fee is non-refundable, regardless of the outcome.

Respond to Officer Requests

An ESDC officer may contact you for additional information, an interview, or a workplace inspection. Respond promptly and thoroughly.

Receive Your LMIA Decision

Once processed, you will receive either a positive or negative LMIA. A positive LMIA (confirmation letter) allows the foreign worker to apply for a work permit.

Required Documents

Ensure you have the following documents prepared before submitting your LMIA application:

Completed LMIA application form (EMP5593)
Business legitimacy documents (articles of incorporation, business licence, CRA documents)
Proof of recruitment efforts (job advertisements, screenshots, applicant tracking records)
Job offer letter outlining wages, duties, and working conditions
Transition plan showing how you will reduce reliance on temporary foreign workers
Prevailing wage documentation from Job Bank
Workplace safety insurance (WSIB or provincial equivalent)
Proof of past LMIA compliance (if applicable)

Processing Fees

$1,000

per position requested

The fee is non-refundable, even if the LMIA is refused or withdrawn.
Employers requesting multiple positions must pay $1,000 for each position.
Small businesses with fewer than 10 employees hiring caregivers may be exempt from the fee.
Payment can be made by credit card, certified cheque, or money order payable to the Receiver General for Canada.

Common Reasons for LMIA Refusal

Understanding why applications are refused can help you avoid common pitfalls:

Insufficient Recruitment Efforts

The employer did not adequately advertise the position or failed to demonstrate that no qualified Canadian was available.

Wage Below Prevailing Rate

The offered wage is below the median wage for the occupation and region as listed on Job Bank.

Incomplete Application

Missing documents, unsigned forms, or failure to provide requested information within the deadline.

Business Legitimacy Concerns

ESDC could not verify that the business is actively operating or that the job offer is genuine.

Labour Dispute

There is an ongoing labour dispute (strike or lockout) at the workplace.

Non-Compliance History

The employer has a history of non-compliance with LMIA conditions or employment standards.

Tips for a Successful LMIA Application

1Start advertising early — the four-week recruitment period must be completed before you submit your LMIA application.
2Offer wages at or above the prevailing median wage listed on Job Bank for the occupation and region.
3Keep detailed records of every applicant, including reasons for not hiring Canadian candidates.
4Ensure your business documents are current and clearly demonstrate that the company is actively operating.
5Include a strong, detailed transition plan explaining how you will train Canadians or permanent residents over time.
6Respond to any ESDC officer requests within the specified deadline — late responses often lead to refusals.
7Consider consulting a licensed immigration consultant or lawyer if this is your first LMIA application.
8Use the LMIA Online Portal for faster submission and tracking.

How Long Does the LMIA Process Take?

LMIA processing times vary depending on the stream, region, and time of year. General applications take between 40 to 90 business days, while the Global Talent Stream offers expedited processing in as little as 10 business days.

For a full breakdown of current processing times and tips for faster processing, see our LMIA Processing Time Guide.

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