Updated September 2026. If you have a Canadian job offer, you will almost certainly run into the term LMIA. It decides whether you can get an employer-specific work permit for that job — and it is also one of the most common hooks in immigration scams. This guide explains what an LMIA is, what it is worth in 2026 (less than many people think for PR), and how to protect yourself.
Quick Answer
A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a decision by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) that an employer can hire a foreign worker because no Canadian or permanent resident is available. The employer applies and pays the $1,000 fee — never the worker. A positive LMIA is valid for up to six months, and you must apply for your work permit before it expires. Since March 25, 2025, a job offer — LMIA-supported or not — no longer adds CRS points in Express Entry, though it can still matter for some federal and provincial program requirements. Anyone selling you an LMIA is breaking the rules.
This guide explains general rules. It is not legal advice. Consult a licensed RCIC or lawyer about your own situation.
What an LMIA Is — and Is Not
- It is ESDC’s approval for a specific employer to fill a specific job with a foreign worker.
- It is not a work permit — you still apply to IRCC for the permit, using the LMIA number.
- It is not permanent residence.
- It is not something you apply for, buy or pay for.
How the Employer Gets One
- Advertises the job in Canada (usually for at least four weeks, on several platforms).
- Shows ESDC it could not find a qualified Canadian or permanent resident.
- Applies with the $1,000 processing fee per position and commits to the wage and working conditions.
- ESDC assesses the job and issues a positive or negative LMIA.
Processing times depend on the stream (high-wage, low-wage, agricultural, Global Talent Stream); check ESDC’s current times. Low-wage LMIAs face extra restrictions, including limits in some regions.
Your Timeline: Two Different Dates
Since May 1, 2024, new LMIAs are valid for a maximum of six months — that is your deadline to apply for the work permit. After your permit is issued, only the permit’s expiry date matters (LMIA expiry vs work permit expiry).
Does an LMIA Help With PR in 2026?
Official rule: IRCC states, “We no longer give points for job offers. As of March 25, 2025, we’re removing job offer points from the Comprehensive Ranking System.”
What it means: an LMIA job offer no longer raises your Express Entry score. It can still matter for:
- the Federal Skilled Worker eligibility grid (arranged employment points) and the proof-of-funds exemption,
- the Federal Skilled Trades program, which can require a job offer,
- many provincial nominee streams that need an employer job offer.
IRCC consulted in 2026 on reforms that could bring back points for certain high-wage offers, but that is a proposal. Check your score with the CRS calculator.
Who Does Not Need an LMIA
Many permits are LMIA-exempt: open work permits (PGWP, spousal, bridging), International Experience Canada, intra-company transfers, workers under trade agreements such as CUSMA and CETA, and some provincial nominee and pilot-program permits. The employer of an LMIA-exempt worker still submits the offer through IRCC’s Employer Portal.
LMIA Fraud: Red Flags
- Anyone asking you to pay for an LMIA or a job offer — the employer pays the fee, and recruitment fees are prohibited (your rights)
- A “job” where you pay a deposit or kickback, or repay hiring costs from your wages
- “Guaranteed LMIA” packages sold by agents
- An employer you cannot verify, or who won’t show you the LMIA
- Pressure to sign documents you have not read, or to misstate your duties
Using a fraudulent LMIA can lead to refusal, a five-year misrepresentation ban and removal. Check anyone advising you (verify a consultant).
Your Rights on an LMIA Permit
Your employer must provide wages and working conditions substantially the same as the LMIA and job offer. If things go wrong:
- Employer cut your hours or pay
- You were laid off
- You want to change employers
- You are being mistreated
FAQ
Who pays for the LMIA?
The employer. The $1,000 fee cannot be paid by or recovered from the worker.
How long is an LMIA valid?
Up to six months from issue for LMIAs issued since May 1, 2024. You must apply for your work permit before it expires.
Does an LMIA give me CRS points?
Not since March 25, 2025. Job offers no longer add CRS points.
Can I switch employers on an LMIA permit?
You need a new work permit for the new job; IRCC can authorize you to start early after you apply.
