"LMIA"

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LMIA stands for Labor Market Impact Assessment, which refers to a "Foreign Worker Permit." Employers must obtain LMIA approval so that foreign employees can be eligible to apply for a work permit. In other words, foreigners who wish to work in Canada must find an employer who supports LMIA to obtain a work permit to work locally.

LMIA Department: Employment and Social Development Canada

LMIA Applicant: Employer for the employee

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LMIA Requirements:

• Efforts to employ Canadians first (advertise for at least one month)

• Promise to pay a salary equal to or higher than the median wage received by Canadians for the respective job

• Employment contract that does not violate provincial employment laws

• Employer operating a legitimate business

• Sufficient ability to pay the employee's salary and benefits

 

Process from LMIA to Permanent Residency:

• Job advertisement for 28 days

• LMIA application

• LMIA employer interview

• Issuance of LMIA approval permit

• Work permit application

• Apply for permanent residency program with local work experience

• Acquisition of permanent residency