LMIA-Based & LMIA-Exempt Employer-Specific Work Permits
Canada offers several work permit pathways for foreign workers with a valid job offer. LMIA-based work permits require employer labor market testing, while LMIA-exempt permits leverage international agreements, intra-company transfers, or Francophone mobility programs.
Canada Job Offer-Based Work Permits
A valid Canadian job offer opens the door to multiple work permit pathways. Depending on your nationality, occupation, and the employer's status, you may qualify for LMIA-based or LMIA-exempt work permits, each with distinct application processes and work conditions.
LMIA-Based Work Permit
The employer must obtain a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), demonstrating that no Canadian worker is available to fill the position. The LMIA process costs CAD 1,000 per position and takes 2-4 months. Once approved, you apply for a closed work permit tied to that specific employer.
LMIA-Exempt Work Permits
Certain job offers qualify for LMIA exemption under international agreements or Canadian interests. These include intra-company transferees, professionals under CUSMA (formerly NAFTA), CETA with the EU, Francophone Mobility Program participants, and spouse of skilled workers. The employer must still submit an offer of employment through the Employer Portal and pay the employer compliance fee.
LMIA Application Process for Employers
Understanding the Labour Market Impact Assessment process that employers must complete.
Advertising & Recruitment
Employer must advertise the position for a minimum of 4 weeks through approved channels including Job Bank, two additional national methods, and outreach to underrepresented groups.
Submit LMIA Application
Employer submits application to ESDC with evidence of recruitment efforts, wage offering at or above median wage, working conditions, and transition plan (for high-wage positions).
LMIA Outcome
ESDC processes the application. If positive, the LMIA is issued and the employer provides it to you. You then apply for a closed work permit within the LMIA validity period.
Work Permit Processing Times
Current IRCC processing times for work permit applications based on job offers.
LMIA-Based (Outside Canada)
Standard processing for LMIA-supported applications from overseas. Applying from within Canada may reduce times.
LMIA-Exempt (Outside Canada)
Faster processing for CUSMA, ICT, Francophone Mobility, and other LMIA-exempt categories.
Work Permit Extension (Inside Canada)
Processing for extending existing work permits or changing conditions from within Canada. Maintain status during processing.
Have a Canadian Job Offer?
Our immigration consultants will help determine whether your job offer qualifies for LMIA exemption or requires employer LMIA support. We handle the entire work permit application process from document preparation to submission.