LMIA processing times rose in February 2026 across most streams of Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). This matters because an LMIA is often the slowest step before a foreign worker can submit an LMIA-based (employer-specific) work permit application. If your work permit renewal or job start date depends on an LMIA, even a few extra weeks can change your timeline.
Internal guidance: If you’re still learning how an LMIA fits into the work permit process, start with Canadianow’s LMIA guide (what it is and when it’s required).
Latest official LMIA processing times (February 2026)
Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) publishes average LMIA processing times for the previous month. The most recent update (page updated March 4, 2026) lists the following averages for February 2026 (business days):
- Global Talent Stream: 12
- Agricultural stream: 15
- Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP): 10
- High-Wage stream: 60
- Low-Wage stream: 48
- Permanent Resident stream (LMIA for PR support): 244
Official source: ESDC LMIA processing times.
What “High-Wage” and “Low-Wage” mean under TFWP
TFWP LMIA streams are often split by whether the offered wage is above or below the provincial/territorial wage threshold. That threshold determines which stream an employer must use, and the stream can affect processing time and employer obligations.
Official explanation: ESDC high-wage vs low-wage stream overview.
Internal guidance: If you’re comparing an LMIA-based work permit vs an LMIA-exempt option (International Mobility Program routes), Canadianow’s LMIA-exempt work permit guide can help you avoid mixing the two systems.
Why LMIA processing times can rise (even if targets change)
ESDC notes that processing times can change month to month. Common reasons include application volume, the mix of streams being submitted, and whether applications are complete on arrival.
- Volume changes: more applications can increase wait times in certain streams.
- Completeness issues: missing documents can delay processing because the clock starts when a complete application is submitted.
- Stream requirements: high-wage and low-wage LMIAs can involve different compliance requirements for employers.
Official reference (how ESDC defines processing start/end): ESDC processing time definitions.
What employers and workers should do now
If you’re planning a new hire or a permit extension that depends on an LMIA, build extra time into your plan. A “60 business day” average can still mean longer waits for some files.
- Employers: confirm the correct stream early (high-wage vs low-wage) and submit a complete package.
- Workers: track your current status expiry date and avoid waiting until the last moment to start renewal discussions with your employer.
- Everyone: remember LMIA processing time is only one part of the timeline—work permit processing happens separately through IRCC.
Official employer overview: ESDC — Hire a temporary foreign worker (TFWP).
Internal guidance: If your status is expiring soon, Canadianow’s maintained status guide explains what it can and cannot protect while an extension is in process.
Where to find LMIA-related job postings
Some employers advertise roles with LMIA status shown (for example, “LMIA requested” or “LMIA approved”). This can help job seekers understand whether an employer is actively using the TFWP, but it does not guarantee an LMIA will be approved.
Official Job Bank tool: Job Bank — Temporary Foreign Workers and Job search with LMIA filters.
FAQ
Are LMIA processing times the same as work permit processing times?
No. LMIA processing is handled by ESDC/Service Canada. Work permits are processed by IRCC after the worker applies. You should plan for both steps.
Does a longer LMIA processing time mean my LMIA will be refused?
No. A longer wait usually reflects workload and processing factors, not the final decision. What matters most is meeting program requirements and submitting a complete application.
Which stream is currently the slowest?
Based on the latest published averages, the Permanent Resident stream has the longest processing time, followed by the High-Wage and Low-Wage streams.
Reality check
LMIA timelines are averages and can shift quickly month to month. A rise in processing time does not mean your case will fail, but it can create real planning risks—especially for workers close to status expiry or employers trying to fill urgent roles. For the most reliable planning, check the official ESDC processing times page regularly and treat timelines as estimates, not guarantees. ESDC LMIA processing times.
