LMIA processing times and fees from ESDC

LMIA processing times change every month. ESDC publishes average times by stream, in business days, for applications processed the previous month.

Average processing times (September 2026)

According to ESDC, these figures can vary significantly from month to month depending on volumes.

Time not included

• Mandatory advertising before applying: 14 days to 8 weeks in the previous 3 months, depending on the stream.
• The worker's work permit application and IRCC processing after the LMIA.
• Extra time for incomplete files: ESDC only starts counting once the application is complete (documents, signatures, fee paid).

Fees

• LMIA processing fee: CAD 1,000 per position, paid by the employer.
• Some cases are exempt under ESDC's rules.
• Fees aren't refunded or transferred if the employer withdraws to change streams.

Estimating the total timeline

Note ESDC advises applying as early as possible, up to 6 months before the expected start date. The worker applies for the work permit after the employer receives a positive LMIA.