Types of LMIA Applications

Under the eight (8) primary streams, Canadian firms can file for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to hire a foreign worker. It is critical to choose a suitable type of LMIA. In reality, it will decide the standards that must be completed, such as an employer’s eligibility, job posting, and which application forms must be filled out.

There are 8 LMIA streams

  1. LMIA for low-wage workers. If a foreign worker’s compensation is less than the provincial or territorial median hourly wage. Application forms for low-wage jobs are available here.
  2. High-Wage LMIA A temporary worker, such as a Business Owner, is paid at or above the provincial or territorial median hourly rate. Application forms for high-paying employment are available here.
  3. Agricultural Workers’ LMIA. Only engage foreign labourers for on-farm primary agriculture jobs (find below the list of all eligible commodity sectors). Agricultural worker application forms may be obtained here.
  4. LMIA for Agricultural Seasonal Workers. To employ nationals of designated nations to do on-farm basic agricultural activities (find below the list of all participating countries and eligible commodity sectors). You may obtain the application form for hiring seasonal agricultural labourers here.
  5. LMIA to Support a Visa Application for Permanent Residency (PR). Only for high-wage positions in the National Occupational Classification under Skill Type and Level A and B. (NOC). Application forms for LMIA to assist with public relations may be found here.
  6. LMIA with Dual Intent. It serves two functions: it supports both PR and work permit applications at the same time. The application form for LMIA’s PR assistance may be found here.
  7. Global Talent Stream LMIA. Under this stream, either 1) innovative Canadian enterprises directed by approved referral partners can recruit unique and specialised foreign nationals, or 2) Canadian companies can hire for in-demand highly skilled professions listed on the Global Talent Occupations List.
  8. In-home Caregiver LMIA. Foreign caregivers can be hired by Canadians to care for children, elders, or others with documented medical requirements in their own homes. The list of qualifying caregiver occupations under this LMIA stream is shown below. You may find the application form for a Live-In Caregiver LMIA here.