Getting a Canadian job offer from abroad is only one part of the process. If the position requires a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), the Canadian employer generally has to complete the LMIA process before the foreign worker can apply for an employer-specific work permit.
That distinction is important because an LMIA is not a work permit or a Canadian visa. A positive LMIA supports the employer’s need to hire a foreign worker, but the worker must still apply to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and satisfy the applicable eligibility, admissibility and documentation requirements.
For people searching for Canada jobs with LMIA sponsorship, the process can therefore be thought of as two connected stages: the employer’s LMIA application and the worker’s work-permit application.
This 2026 guide explains how the process works, what documents you may need, what the employer has to do, current fees and important changes affecting low-wage LMIA positions.
How to Get a Canada Work Permit Through LMIA
In a typical LMIA-required case, the process looks like this:
| Step | Who is mainly responsible? | What happens? |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Worker | Find a genuine Canadian employer willing and eligible to hire a foreign worker |
| 2 | Employer | Determine whether an LMIA is required |
| 3 | Employer | Choose the appropriate Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) stream |
| 4 | Employer | Complete recruitment and submit the LMIA application to ESDC/Service Canada |
| 5 | Employer | Receive a positive LMIA decision, if approved |
| 6 | Employer + worker | Employer provides the required employment information and positive LMIA documentation |
| 7 | Worker | Apply to IRCC for an employer-specific work permit |
| 8 | Worker | Pay the applicable fees, submit documents and provide biometrics if required |
| 9 | Worker | Wait for IRCC’s decision and, if approved, follow instructions for travelling to Canada |
A positive LMIA generally confirms that there is a need for a temporary foreign worker and that no Canadian citizen or permanent resident is available for the position.
What Is an LMIA?
LMIA stands for Labour Market Impact Assessment.
It is an assessment used by the Canadian government to determine the likely effect of hiring a temporary foreign worker on Canada’s labour market.
Most employers need an LMIA before hiring a temporary foreign worker, although there are important LMIA-exempt situations.
A positive LMIA indicates that:
- there is a need for a foreign worker to fill the position; and
- no Canadian citizen or permanent resident is available to do the job.
Once an employer receives the required LMIA, the foreign worker can use the employer’s employment information and LMIA documentation when applying for the appropriate work permit.
LMIA is not the same as visa sponsorship
The phrase “visa sponsorship” is commonly used in job advertisements and social media discussions, but it can create confusion.
For an LMIA-required job, the employer is not simply buying a visa for a worker. The employer must demonstrate that the position and recruitment process satisfy the requirements of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program.
The worker then makes a separate application to IRCC for authorization to work in Canada.
A positive LMIA therefore does not guarantee that IRCC will approve the worker’s application.
Step 1: Find a Genuine Canadian Employer
For most people outside Canada, this is the hardest part.
You cannot normally start by applying for your own LMIA. The LMIA is primarily an employer-side process.
Your first objective is to find a Canadian employer with a genuine vacancy who is prepared to consider hiring a foreign worker and, where required, complete the LMIA process.
Potential applicants include:
- skilled tradespeople
- construction workers
- technicians
- transport workers
- healthcare workers
- hospitality workers
- agricultural workers
- experienced professionals
- other workers whose occupations and circumstances fit an eligible TFWP stream
The existence of a job advertisement mentioning “LMIA” does not automatically mean that the employer already has an LMIA.
Before accepting an offer, verify:
- the employer’s legal identity;
- the actual job location;
- job duties;
- wage;
- hours;
- employment conditions;
- whether the employer has actually discussed LMIA sponsorship;
- whether the position is eligible under the applicable program.
A genuine employer should be able to provide meaningful information about the job rather than simply asking you for money in exchange for a promised work permit.
Step 2: The Employer Determines Whether an LMIA Is Required
The employer must determine whether the position requires an LMIA or qualifies for an exemption.
IRCC states that employers generally need an LMIA before hiring a temporary foreign worker, but some workers and situations are exempt.
If an LMIA is required, the employer proceeds through the applicable TFWP stream.
The worker should not assume that every Canadian job advertised to foreigners is an LMIA job.
Step 3: The Employer Chooses the Appropriate LMIA Stream
The employer’s application depends partly on the wage being offered and the nature of the position.
One important distinction is between the high-wage and low-wage streams.
As of July 17, 2026, the hourly wage thresholds used to distinguish these streams were updated. For example:
| Province/Territory | High-wage threshold from July 17, 2026 |
|---|---|
| Alberta | C$37.50/hour |
| British Columbia | C$38.40/hour |
| Manitoba | C$31.33/hour |
| New Brunswick | C$31.73/hour |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | C$33.60/hour |
| Nova Scotia | C$31.96/hour |
| Ontario | C$36.92/hour |
| Prince Edward Island | C$31.20/hour |
| Quebec | C$36.00/hour |
| Saskatchewan | C$34.62/hour |
| Yukon | C$45.60/hour |
The thresholds are based on provincial or territorial median hourly wages plus 20%. Employers must also consider the prevailing wage for the specific occupation and location.
The remaining territories have their own applicable thresholds, so applicants should not assume that a threshold from another province applies to their job.
Important: Being paid slightly above a threshold does not by itself guarantee an LMIA. The employer must satisfy the requirements of the applicable stream.
Step 4: The Employer Completes Recruitment and Applies for the LMIA
The employer generally has to demonstrate that it has made appropriate efforts to recruit Canadians and permanent residents before relying on the Temporary Foreign Worker Program.
The exact recruitment requirements vary according to the stream, occupation and circumstances.
The employer must also demonstrate that the business and job offer are legitimate and satisfy applicable wage and working-condition requirements.
For many LMIA applications, the employer submits the application through LMIA Online.
The employer provides information and supporting documents and, where applicable, pays the LMIA processing fee.
For many LMIA applications, the processing fee is C$1,000 per position. The fee is an employer cost and cannot be recovered from the temporary foreign worker. Certain exemptions apply.
How long is an LMIA valid?
A positive LMIA is generally valid for up to six months after it is issued, according to current ESDC guidance. This is important because the worker should not assume that an approved LMIA remains usable indefinitely.
Step 5: The Employer Receives the LMIA Decision
ESDC/Service Canada assesses the employer’s application and issues a positive or negative decision.
If the decision is positive, the employer receives documentation confirming the LMIA decision.
The positive LMIA provides information about the approved employment, including relevant wage, occupation and working-condition details.
The employer then gives the foreign worker the documentation needed to support the work-permit application.
For an LMIA-required work permit, IRCC identifies documents such as:
- a copy of the positive LMIA;
- the LMIA number;
- a job offer letter;
- an employment contract.
Step 6: Check Your Own Work-Permit Eligibility
This is where many applicants misunderstand the process.
A positive LMIA does not automatically give you the right to work in Canada.
You still have to meet IRCC’s requirements.
Depending on your situation, IRCC may assess factors such as:
- whether you have the documents required for your application;
- whether you have sufficient funds for yourself and accompanying family members, where applicable;
- whether you are admissible to Canada;
- whether you satisfy the requirements of the work permit;
- whether you can demonstrate that you will leave Canada when required;
- whether a medical examination is required;
- whether biometrics are required.
For applications made from outside Canada, IRCC says applicants must meet the general requirements and any additional requirements that apply to their specific situation.
This means a person can have a genuine job offer and positive LMIA and still have their work-permit application refused.
Step 7: Apply for the Employer-Specific Work Permit
Once the employer has completed the LMIA stage and you have the necessary employment documents, you can apply to IRCC.
For an application from outside Canada, IRCC’s current process generally involves:
- signing into or creating an IRCC secure account;
- completing the online questionnaire;
- receiving your personalized document checklist;
- uploading the required forms and supporting documents;
- paying the applicable fees;
- submitting the application;
- providing biometrics if required;
- waiting for a decision.
IRCC currently lists the standard work-permit processing fee as C$155, unless an exemption applies.
What documents may be required?
The exact checklist depends on your circumstances, but an LMIA-required application can include:
- valid passport or travel document;
- work-permit application forms;
- positive LMIA documentation;
- LMIA number;
- job offer letter;
- employment contract;
- proof of work experience;
- evidence of qualifications or education where relevant;
- photographs where required;
- medical examination documents if applicable;
- police certificates or other admissibility documents where required;
- proof of funds where applicable;
- biometrics, if required.
IRCC generates a personalized document checklist, so applicants should follow the checklist generated for their particular application rather than relying entirely on a generic internet list.
Step 8: Pay the Fees and Give Biometrics
The standard work-permit processing fee is currently C$155.
Applicants who are required to provide biometrics generally pay a separate biometrics fee of C$85 per individual, with a maximum family biometrics fee of C$170 for eligible families applying together.
After submitting an application, applicants who need biometrics receive a Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL) and should arrange their biometrics appointment promptly.
Not every applicant will need to provide new biometrics, so check IRCC’s instructions for your situation.
Step 9: Wait for the IRCC Decision
After submitting the application, IRCC reviews the information and supporting evidence.
Processing times can change depending on the application type, location and other factors. Therefore, applicants should use IRCC’s current processing-time tool rather than relying on an old processing-time estimate found on social media.
If approved, you will receive instructions explaining what happens next.
If you are applying from outside Canada, approval of the application does not necessarily mean you simply arrive at the airport and start working immediately. Follow the travel and entry instructions provided by IRCC and the border authorities.
What Changed for LMIA Jobs in 2026?
This is one of the most important parts of the process for job seekers.
Canada has tightened several aspects of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program, particularly for low-wage positions.
1. Low-wage positions face a 10% cap in many cases
Current rules generally limit the proportion of low-wage temporary foreign workers at a specific work location to 10% of the workforce.
There are important sector-specific variations. Construction, healthcare and food manufacturing have different treatment, including a 20% cap in applicable circumstances.
2. Some low-wage LMIA applications may not be processed based on unemployment
Certain low-wage LMIA applications in census metropolitan areas with an unemployment rate of 6% or higher may be refused processing, subject to exemptions.
This means the same type of job can face different LMIA circumstances depending on where the job is located.
3. Low-wage employment is generally limited to one year
Under current low-wage TFWP rules, the employment duration for temporary foreign workers in low-wage positions is generally limited to one year.
4. Rural measures can change the calculation
In 2026, Canada introduced temporary measures that can allow eligible rural employers, following provincial or territorial requests, to retain their existing number of low-wage temporary foreign workers and potentially increase the allowable proportion to 15%.
These measures are temporary and are scheduled to remain in place until March 31, 2027. Sector-specific rules still apply.
For this reason, someone searching for LMIA jobs for foreigners should look beyond the job title and investigate the employer, location, wage level and applicable LMIA stream.
How Much Does It Cost the Worker?
The major LMIA processing fee is normally the employer’s responsibility rather than the worker’s.
For the worker, the principal IRCC work-permit processing fee is currently:
C$155
If biometrics are required:
C$85 for an individual
Other costs may apply depending on the applicant’s circumstances, including:
- medical examination;
- police certificates;
- document translation;
- language testing if needed for another purpose;
- travel;
- professional assistance, if voluntarily retained.
The worker should be especially cautious about anyone demanding money for a supposed “LMIA fee.”
ESDC states that employers must not recover LMIA processing fees or recruitment fees from temporary foreign workers.
That does not mean every cost associated with immigration is illegal. The important distinction is between legitimate applicant expenses and a recruiter or employer demanding payment for recruitment or an LMIA that the employer is legally responsible for.
What Should a Genuine LMIA Job Offer Look Like?
Before accepting an offer, compare the information in the job offer with the information you would expect to see in the LMIA documentation.
Look for consistency in:
- employer name;
- occupation;
- job duties;
- location;
- wage;
- hours;
- employment duration;
- working conditions.
Canadian rules also protect temporary foreign workers from abusive employment practices. Employers are expected to pay workers properly, provide legally required working conditions and generally ensure that the actual employment corresponds with the approved job.
A recruiter who says, “Pay me and I will guarantee your LMIA and Canadian visa”, should be treated as a serious warning sign.
No legitimate intermediary can guarantee that IRCC will approve your work permit.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Paying for a guaranteed LMIA
An LMIA is an employer-side labour-market assessment. Be very cautious if someone claims they can sell you a guaranteed positive LMIA.
2. Assuming every LMIA job qualifies
The employer, position, wage, location and applicable program requirements all matter.
3. Applying for the work permit before the employer completes the required LMIA
If the position requires an LMIA, you generally need the relevant LMIA documentation before making the work-permit application.
4. Submitting inconsistent documents
Your CV, employment history, job offer, qualifications and application forms should tell a consistent story.
5. Ignoring the 2026 low-wage rules
A job that looks suitable on a social-media advertisement may face additional restrictions because of its wage level and location.
6. Treating an LMIA as permanent residence
An LMIA-supported work permit is generally temporary authorization to work. It does not automatically make you a permanent resident or Canadian citizen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an LMIA the same as a Canadian work permit?
No. An LMIA is an assessment that an employer may need before hiring a foreign worker. The worker still has to apply to IRCC for the appropriate work permit.
Can I apply for an LMIA myself?
Generally, no. The LMIA is an employer-side process. The Canadian employer applies to ESDC/Service Canada where an LMIA is required.
How much is the LMIA fee?
For many LMIA applications, the employer processing fee is C$1,000 per position. Exemptions exist for certain applications. The fee cannot be recovered from the temporary foreign worker.
How much is the Canadian work-permit fee?
IRCC currently lists the standard work-permit processing fee as C$155, unless an exemption applies. A biometrics fee may also apply.
Does a positive LMIA guarantee a work permit?
No. A positive LMIA supports the employer’s need to hire a foreign worker, but IRCC still assesses the worker’s work-permit application and eligibility.
Can I bring my family to Canada?
Depending on your circumstances, family members may be able to apply for their own temporary status or permits. However, eligibility depends on current immigration rules and the family’s individual circumstances. Do not assume that every family member automatically receives a work or study permit.
Can an LMIA work permit lead to permanent residence?
It can potentially contribute to a future immigration pathway in some circumstances, but an LMIA work permit itself does not guarantee permanent residence. Permanent-residence applicants must qualify under the immigration program through which they apply.
Where can I verify Canadian LMIA and work-permit requirements?
The safest starting point is the official Canadian government information from IRCC and Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC).
IRCC — Work permits and immigration information
ESDC — Temporary Foreign Worker Program
Final Takeaway
The process for getting a Canadian work permit through an LMIA is best understood as a sequence rather than a single application.
First, you need a genuine Canadian employer and eligible position. If the job requires an LMIA, the employer handles the LMIA process with ESDC/Service Canada. If the employer receives a positive LMIA, you receive the relevant employment and LMIA documentation and then submit your own employer-specific work-permit application to IRCC.
The worker’s current standard work-permit processing fee is C$155, with biometrics potentially adding another fee.
For 2026 applicants, the biggest issue is not simply finding a job advertised as “LMIA sponsorship.” You should also examine the wage, occupation, location, employer and applicable TFWP stream, particularly because low-wage positions face additional restrictions and updated wage thresholds.
Most importantly, do not pay someone simply because they promise a guaranteed LMIA, job or Canadian visa. A legitimate pathway involves an actual employer, a genuine job, government requirements and a separate IRCC assessment.
Before spending money or making travel plans, verify the latest requirements directly with the Canadian government because immigration rules, fees and program conditions can change.