LMIA support for Canadian employers.
A carefully prepared Labour Market Impact Assessment is often the difference between hiring the person you need and losing them to a competitor. We plan the file with your operations in mind.
Where we start
Every LMIA begins with a clear picture of the role, the wage, the workplace and the recruitment record. We work through those inputs with you before any drafting begins, so the application reflects the real position rather than a generic template.
How we help
- Stream selection: high-wage, low-wage, Global Talent Stream, agricultural, in-home caregiver and specialized streams.
- Wage and NOC verification, transition plans and recruitment strategy.
- Preparation and submission of the LMIA application and supporting evidence.
- Responses to Service Canada questions and integrity reviews.
- Post-approval work permit strategy for the worker, inside or outside Canada.
- Compliance guidance, record-keeping and preparation for possible inspections.
Working with founders and growing teams
Smaller employers often carry the LMIA workload alongside everything else. We aim to be a straightforward extension of your team: clear on what we need from you, honest about timelines and available when Service Canada asks a question that requires a fast, considered response.
A few things clients often ask.
What is an LMIA?
A Labour Market Impact Assessment is a document from Employment and Social Development Canada that assesses whether hiring a foreign worker will fill a genuine gap in the Canadian labour market. A positive or neutral LMIA is typically required before a work permit can be issued under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program.
How long does an LMIA take?
Processing depends on the stream and program. Streams may have published service standards, but real timelines are affected by advertising requirements, employer compliance history and file complexity. We provide realistic timelines based on your specific position and location.
Do we need to advertise the role first?
Most LMIA streams require documented recruitment for the position. The exact requirements vary by stream and wage. We plan the recruitment step with you so it produces a compliant record without unnecessary delay.
What are our employer compliance obligations after approval?
Employers must respect the terms in the LMIA and the offer of employment, keep documents for six years, and be ready for possible inspection. We help set up simple internal practices so ongoing compliance is manageable.
Related services and next steps.
LMIA-exempt work permits
Categories that do not require an LMIA, including intra-company transfers, treaty work permits and public policy streams.
Work permits overview
How LMIA and LMIA-exempt permits fit into the wider work-permit landscape.
Send a short enquiry
Tell us about the position and we will help you place the right next step.
Information current as of July 2026. Program rules and intake can change without notice.
This page provides general information about Canadian immigration and does not constitute legal advice. For advice specific to your matter, please book a consultation with an RCIC.
Speak with an RCIC about your matter.
Consultations are available online worldwide and, by appointment, at our Canadian offices.