What is a Labour Market Impact Assessment?

A Labour Market Impact Assessment (often referred to as an LMIA) is an immigration document that a Canadian employer may need prior to hiring a foreign worker. A so-called “positive” LMIA will indicate that there is a specific need for a foreign worker to fill a particular job. At the same time, it indicates that no Canadian is available to do that job.

A “positive” LMIA is sometimes referred to as a Confirmation Letter. In the case that an employer requires an LMIA, they must make application for one. Once the employer secures the LMIA, the worker in question can then apply for a work permit. Work permits are processed when the worker submits the required supporting documents:

• A letter that describes the job offer
• A legitimate contract relative to the job
• An official copy of the LMIA (and number)

Through Employment and Social Development Canada, the LMIA essentially gives an employer the permission to hire a temporary worker. And while there are certain ineligible employers, there are a number of categories where the LMIA is applicable:

• Hiring a temporary foreign worker for an agricultural job
• Hiring a skilled worker in support of their permanent residency
• Hiring a worker in the Province of Quebec (special requisites)
• Hiring a temporary foreign worker for a caregiver position
• Hiring a foreign academic for a position to match the field
• Hiring a temporary foreign worker in film/entertainment

Like other government application processes, the LMIA can be difficult for some applicants, and there may be some questions that go unanswered. This could be a good time to get professional advice from an immigration firm that specializes in processing these types of applications. A good firm will have experts on hand to efficiently manage the entire process. Better still, a reputable immigration firm can effectively deal with any problems.