LMIA & Close Work Permits in Canada

LMIA & Close Work Permits in Canada

A complete guide to understanding how employer sponsorship works for foreign workers.

If you are a foreign national looking to work in Canada, you will often need a valid work permit. One of the key documents required for many employer-based work permits is the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). Issued by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), this document confirms that hiring a foreign worker will not negatively impact the Canadian labor market. In this guide, we break down the LMIA process, its connection with employer-specific work permits, and how to navigate this pathway toward legal employment in Canada.

Understanding the LMIA

An LMIA is a formal authorization that confirms:

• There are no Canadian citizens or permanent residents available to fill the job
• Hiring a foreign worker is justified and supports the Canadian economy
• The employer has made sufficient efforts to recruit locally

In most cases, Canadian employers must secure a positive LMIA before offering a job to a foreign national.

Steps for Employers

To apply for an LMIA, employers must:

• Advertise the position for a minimum period, often four weeks, on platforms like the Job Bank
• Show clear evidence of recruitment efforts to hire domestically
• Submit an application with job details, wage information, and proof of advertising
• Pay the required government processing fees

Types of LMIA Applications

• High-Wage Positions: Jobs offering salaries at or above the provincial average, often in professional fields like engineering, management, or technology
• Low-Wage Positions: Jobs offering below-average wages, common in hospitality, manufacturing, or seasonal work
• Seasonal Work: Temporary labor in industries such as agriculture, tourism, or food processing

Who Needs an LMIA?

An LMIA is generally required if:

• A Canadian employer is hiring a foreign worker for the first time
• A current work permit holder is switching jobs or employers
• The employer is in a region with higher unemployment rates
• The job is not part of a program that provides an exemption

LMIA Exemptions

Some scenarios allow employers and applicants to bypass the LMIA requirement, such as:

• International Mobility Programs: Includes intra-company transferees, professionals under trade agreements (e.g., CUSMA), and academic researchers
• Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): Provinces may issue a letter of support that replaces the need for an LMIA
• Priority Occupations: Certain provinces maintain lists of in-demand jobs that qualify for streamlined or exempted processes
• Open Work Permit Holders: Spouses of international students or skilled workers, among others, may not require an LMIA at all

Employer-Specific Work Permits (Closed Work Permits)

An employer-specific or “closed” work permit allows a foreign national to work only for one specific employer, in a defined role and location. Unlike open work permits, it does not allow the flexibility to change employers without applying for a new permit.

How LMIA Connects to Employer-Specific Permits

In most cases, a closed work permit is issued only after the employer has obtained a positive LMIA. Once the LMIA is approved, the worker can apply for a permit tied to that employer and job offer.

Documents Typically Required

• Job offer letter from the employer
• A copy of the approved LMIA (unless exempt)
• Proof of education and relevant work experience
• Valid passport and financial documentation

Permit Duration and Renewal

• The permit’s validity usually matches the employment contract (e.g., up to 2 years for lower-wage roles, up to 3 years for high-skilled jobs)
• Extensions may require a new LMIA or proof of continued exemption
• If changing employers, the worker must first obtain a new LMIA and reapply for a permit

Benefits and Limitations of Employer-Specific Permits

Benefits:

• Legal authorization to work in Canada with employer support
• A clear pathway toward permanent residency through programs like the Canadian Experience Class or Provincial Nominee Programs
• Useful for professionals and entrepreneurs entering under job-based or investment-driven streams

Limitations:

• Tied to one employer—if the job ends, the permit may no longer be valid
• Limited mobility and career flexibility within Canada
• Renewals and job changes require additional applications and, often, a new LMIA

Conclusion

An LMIA is a critical requirement for many employer-driven work permits in Canada. While not every situation calls for one, most job-specific permits require a positive LMIA before a foreign worker can apply. However, alternative programs and exemptions exist, and understanding your eligibility is key to choosing the right path.

Employer-specific work permits can be a strong entry point into the Canadian labor market, offering stability and future immigration opportunities when chosen wisely and managed correctly.

How i2Canada Immigration Services Can Support You

If you’re planning to work in Canada and need expert guidance on the LMIA process or closed work permits, our team is here to help. We provide:

• Tailored eligibility assessments
• Document preparation and application support
• Employer coordination and LMIA guidance
• Strategic planning for long-term immigration goals
• Ongoing support throughout your work and settlement process

At i2Canada Immigration Services, we combine deep knowledge of immigration law with a client-centered approach to ensure your journey is smooth, compliant, and successful.

Start today by filling out our Free Assessment Form, and let our experts help you take the next step in your Canadian work and immigration journey.