Quebec has published its updated list of occupations that can use the simplified (facilitated) LMIA process. This matters if an employer is planning to hire through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) in Quebec, because the job’s NOC code can change what documents are required and how the application is assessed.
A common misunderstanding: being on the list does not mean an LMIA will be approved—it only changes certain steps in the process.
What is Quebec’s “simplified” (facilitated) LMIA process?
In Quebec, Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) and Quebec’s immigration ministry (MIFI) have an agreement that lets employers apply for an LMIA for specific “in-demand” occupations without submitting proof of recruitment efforts. Employers still need to meet program rules (wages, working conditions, compliance, stream requirements, etc.).
Key dates employers should know
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List effective date: February 24, 2026
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Transition (grace) period: February 24 to March 26, 2026 (inclusive)
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List validity: until February 23, 2027
During the transition period, applications received by Quebec or ESDC may still be assessed using the 2025 list if the occupation is not on the 2026 list.
What changed in the 2026 list?
Multiple reports indicate the list is smaller this year (for example, reduced to 60 occupations, down from 76 previously).
One clear change employers are noticing: several tech roles that appeared on the 2025 simplified list (such as software engineers and software developers) are not found on the 2026 list page.
The 2026 list still includes many occupations in areas like health care, construction, skilled trades, and education (examples shown on the official list include Specialists in surgery (31101) and Aircraft mechanics and aircraft inspectors (72404)).
How to use the list correctly (avoid mistakes)
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Match the job to the correct NOC 2021 code (not just the job title).
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Watch for NOC codes with an asterisk (*): only specific designations qualify under simplified processing.
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In Quebec, LMIA applications generally must be submitted to both Service Canada (ESDC) and MIFI, and applications are submitted in French for Quebec requirements.
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If the work location is Montréal or Laval and the job is low-wage, be careful: some LMIAs in those regions are temporarily not processed until December 31, 2026 (with listed exemptions).
Official government sources (outlinks)
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Quebec’s 2026 simplified list (effective Feb 24, 2026):
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ESDC (Canada.ca) facilitated LMIA process for Quebec employers:
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ESDC rules for hiring TFWs in Quebec (including Montréal/Laval low-wage refusal rules):
FAQ
Is a simplified LMIA “faster guaranteed approval”?
No. It mainly changes what evidence you must include (for example, recruitment proof). Approval still depends on meeting LMIA requirements.
Can we apply using the old (2025) list?
Only during the Feb 24 to Mar 26, 2026 transition period, and only if the occupation is not on the new list.
If my occupation is not on the list, can I still hire?
Possibly, but you may need to use the regular LMIA process (with standard recruitment/advertising and other requirements).
Do the asterisk (*) occupations qualify automatically by NOC?
No. The asterisk means only specific job titles/designations under that NOC are eligible.
Reality check
This update can change hiring plans quickly—especially if an employer was relying on simplified LMIA steps for a role that no longer appears on the 2026 list. The safest approach is to verify the NOC code on the official Quebec list and confirm you are applying under the correct LMIA stream (high-wage vs low-wage).
