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The LMIA process

The employer applies for an LMIA with Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). This section explains the process, the high-wage and low-wage streams, timelines and fees, and what the worker submits once the LMIA is approved.

5 articles

  1. How an employer applies for an LMIAHow an employer applies to ESDC for an LMIA: choose the stream, advertise to Canadians first, prove the business is legitimate, apply through LMIA Online.Updated October 2026
  2. High-wage and low-wage streamsESDC splits LMIAs into high-wage and low-wage streams using each province's hourly threshold (from July 17, 2026). Differences in duration, duties and caps.Updated October 2026
  3. LMIA processing times and fees from ESDCESDC's average LMIA processing times (September 2026): high-wage 98 and low-wage 82 business days. The CAD 1,000 fee and what isn't counted.Updated October 2026
  4. After the LMIA: what the worker submitsOnce the employer has a positive LMIA, the worker applies to IRCC: the LMIA letter and Annex A, the job offer, proof of qualifications, biometrics and fees.Updated October 2026
  5. The role of RCICs and lawyersWho can be paid to represent you on a Canadian immigration file: CICC members, lawyers, Quebec notaries, Ontario paralegals. How to check them.Updated October 2026
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