Hiring international workers in Canada is often essential for employers to fill critical job roles. However, obtaining a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a crucial first step.
This article dives into LMIA processing times, different application streams, and tips to ensure a smooth application process.
What is an LMIA?
A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a document issued by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). It confirms that hiring a foreign worker won’t negatively impact Canadian job opportunities. Employers must prove their efforts to hire locally before being approved to hire internationally.
Why is LMIA Necessary?
Canada’s labor policies prioritize citizens and permanent residents for job opportunities. The LMIA ensures employers have made substantial efforts to recruit within Canada. Only when local talent isn’t available can a foreign worker be hired, maintaining a balance in the job market.
LMIA Streams and Processing Times
Different LMIA streams cater to specific industries and job types. Processing times vary depending on the stream and complexity of the application.
| LMIA Stream | Processing Time | Key Details |
|---|---|---|
| Global Talent Stream | 9 business days | For high-demand, specialized jobs like IT. |
| Agricultural Stream | 15 business days | For long-term agricultural roles. |
| Seasonal Agricultural Program | 6 business days | For short-term seasonal farm jobs. |
| High-Wage Stream | 53 business days | For skilled workers earning above median wages. |
| Low-Wage Stream | 51 business days | For roles offering below-median wages. |
| Permanent Resident Stream | 100 business days | For applicants transitioning to permanent residency. |
Factors Affecting LMIA Processing Times
1. Volume of Applications
During peak periods like harvest seasons, processing times may increase due to a higher volume of applications.
2. Completeness of Application
Incomplete forms or missing documentation are common reasons for delays. Ensure all necessary details, such as job descriptions and recruitment efforts, are included.
3. Stream Selection
Expedited streams, like the Global Talent Stream, have shorter processing times compared to streams requiring extensive review, such as the Permanent Resident Stream.
Tips for a Smooth Application Process
Submit a Complete Application
Double-check all forms and include the required documents. Examples include recruitment efforts (e.g., job advertisements) and records showing attempts to hire locally.
Stay Informed
Regularly check the ESDC website for updates on processing times. Staying informed helps you anticipate delays and plan accordingly.
Plan Well in Advance
Some streams take over 50 business days to process. Start your application early to avoid disruptions in your hiring timeline.
Example Scenario: Hiring Through the Global Talent Stream
Suppose a tech company in Canada needs to hire a software engineer urgently. By using the Global Talent Stream, the employer can benefit from a fast processing time of just 9 business days. This stream is ideal for roles requiring specialized skills, ensuring the position is filled quickly and efficiently.
Navigating LMIA processing times is essential for Canadian employers looking to hire international workers. By selecting the right stream, submitting complete applications, and planning, you can streamline the process and ensure your hiring needs are met on time.
