Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)

What is a Labour Market Impact Assessment

A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a document issued by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) that Canadian employers typically need before hiring a temporary foreign worker. It confirms that hiring a foreign worker will have a positive or neutral impact on the Canadian labour market.

To obtain a positive LMIA, employers must demonstrate they have made genuine efforts to recruit Canadians and permanent residents for the position. ESDC assesses the job offer, wages, working conditions, and the employer's recruitment efforts. LMIA streams vary by occupation (high-wage, low-wage, agricultural, Global Talent Stream, and others), each with specific requirements.

A positive LMIA does not grant a work permit—it allows the foreign worker to apply for one. Some work permits are LMIA-exempt under the International Mobility Program (e.g., free trade agreements, intra-company transfers). Determining whether an LMIA is required is the first step in the hiring process.

Who This Service Is For

• Canadian employers who need to hire temporary foreign workers and require a positive LMIA
• Employers in industries facing labour shortages who need skilled workers from abroad
• Businesses seeking to understand LMIA requirements and determine if they qualify
• Employers who need help with LMIA renewals or modifications

What This Service Helps With

• Understanding LMIA requirements and determining which LMIA stream applies to your situation
• Developing recruitment strategies that meet LMIA advertising and recruitment requirements
• Preparing complete LMIA applications with all required documentation and forms
• Demonstrating that hiring a foreign worker will have a positive or neutral impact on the Canadian labour market
• Understanding employer compliance requirements and obligations after receiving a positive LMIA

How Intact Immigration Supports You

We begin by understanding your business needs and the position you need to fill. We help you determine whether an LMIA is required and which LMIA stream is most appropriate for your situation, whether it's high-wage, low-wage, or a specialized program.

We guide you through the recruitment process, ensuring you meet all advertising and recruitment requirements. This includes helping you understand minimum advertising periods, where to advertise, and how to document your recruitment efforts effectively.

We assist with preparing your LMIA application, including completing all required forms and gathering supporting documentation such as business registration, financial statements, and job descriptions. We help you present a clear case demonstrating why hiring a foreign worker is necessary and how it will benefit or have a neutral impact on the Canadian labour market.

Throughout the process, we provide updates on your application status and help you respond to any requests from Employment and Social Development Canada. We also help you understand your ongoing compliance obligations once you receive a positive LMIA and begin employing temporary foreign workers.