Planning to Work in Canada? Here’s How LMIA-Based Work Permits Really Work — And Why CAD Immigration Can Make the Process Easier
When it comes to working in Canada, many foreign nationals rely on the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) process to secure a valid work permit through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). However, there’s often confusion between the validity of an LMIA and the actual duration of the work permit. This article breaks it down — and shows why having professional guidance, like that offered by CAD Immigration, can save you time, money, and risk.
Understanding LMIA-Based Work Permits: What You Need to Know
- What is an LMIA?
- A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a document issued by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) that allows a Canadian employer to hire a foreign worker.
- It ensures no Canadian citizens or permanent residents are available to do the job.
- Who needs it?
- Foreign nationals applying for an employer-specific work permit under the TFWP.
- Employers must apply first and get approval before the worker applies for a permit.
- LMIA Validity vs. Work Permit Duration
- The LMIA validity period is 6 months. That’s the window for the foreign worker to apply for a work permit.
- The work permit validity is based on a work duration recommendation made by ESDC in the LMIA and approved by IRCC.
- For example, a permit can be issued for one year or more, depending on the employer’s job offer and anticipated duration.
Step-by-Step: How the LMIA-TFWP Process Works
- Employer Applies for an LMIA
- Must advertise the job in Canada for at least 4 weeks.
- Submit details on wages, working conditions, and recruitment efforts.
- Pay the LMIA processing fee.
- Receive Positive LMIA
- If approved, ESDC provides a work duration recommendation (e.g., 12 months).
- LMIA is valid for 6 months from the issue date.
- Worker Applies for a Work Permit
- Must apply before the LMIA expires.
- Work permit length is based on ESDC’s recommendation.
- Worker receives a closed work permit tied to that employer and position.
- What if Job Start is After LMIA Expiry?
- That’s okay! The work permit application just needs to be submitted before LMIA expiry, even if the job starts later.
Example Case
- A Canadian auto company applies for an LMIA on July 30, 2025, aiming to hire a foreign mechanical engineer by December 1, 2025.
- LMIA is issued on September 19, 2025, valid for 6 months (until March 19, 2026) with a one-year work duration.
- The worker applies on September 30, 2025, and receives a permit valid from December 18, 2025 to January 30, 2027.
- If they wish to stay longer, the employer must reapply for a new LMIA, and the worker must submit an extension application before the current permit expires.
Average LMIA Processing Times (June 2025)
| Stream | Time (Business Days) |
|---|---|
| Global Talent Stream | 9 |
| Agricultural Stream | 14 |
| Seasonal Agricultural Worker Prog. | 8 |
| High-Wage Stream | 41 |
| Low-Wage Stream | 45 |
| Permanent Resident Stream | 240 |
Why You Should Work with CAD Immigration
The LMIA and TFWP process can be complex, time-sensitive, and if done wrong, it can cost you a job opportunity or delay your plans. CAD Immigration offers:
- Expert handling of both employer and employee documentation
- Assistance with job offer compliance
- Timely filing of LMIA and work permit applications
- Guidance through extensions and maintained status
- Up-to-date insights on evolving immigration rules
Don’t risk doing it alone — minor errors or missed deadlines can cost you months. Let CAD Immigration handle the paperwork while you focus on your career goals
For a consultation about Immigration options, reach out to the CAD IMMIGRATION today!
