LMIA and Canada work permits
How the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) works and the main types of Canadian work permits.
- An employer-specific permit usually needs an LMIA showing no Canadian worker was available.
- Open work permits do not require a job offer or LMIA.
- The LMIA is applied for by the employer, not the worker.
- Some occupations and situations are LMIA-exempt.
What an LMIA is
A Labour Market Impact Assessment is a document an employer may need to hire a foreign worker. It shows there is no Canadian citizen or permanent resident available for the job.
The employer applies for the LMIA and, if positive, the worker then applies for the work permit.
Employer-specific vs open permits
An employer-specific work permit ties you to one employer, and often one occupation and location. An open work permit lets you work for most employers.
Open permits do not need a job offer or LMIA, but they are only available in specific situations.
LMIA-exempt permits
Many permits are LMIA-exempt, including the Post-Graduation Work Permit, spousal open work permits in some cases, and those under international agreements.
Confirm whether your situation is exempt before asking an employer to start an LMIA.
The application process
For an employer-specific permit, the employer first obtains the LMIA, then you apply for the permit with the job offer and LMIA. Processing times vary by country.
Apply before your current status expires and gather your documents early.
Path to permanent residence
Skilled Canadian work experience earned on a work permit adds CRS points and can qualify you for the Canadian Experience Class.
A work permit is temporary, but it is a common first step toward permanent residence.