For Employers

Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)

Most employers need a positive LMIA from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) before hiring a temporary foreign worker. We help you prepare a compliant application and avoid costly delays.

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TWO STREAMS

High-Wage or Low-Wage?

High-Wage

At or Above the Threshold

The wage threshold is the provincial or territorial median hourly wage plus 20%. In British Columbia, the threshold is $38.40 per hour (as of July 17, 2026).

  • Recruit for at least 4 consecutive weeks within the 3 months before applying
  • At least 3 recruitment methods, including Job Bank and one national in scope
  • A transition plan is generally required
Low-Wage

Below the Threshold

Low-wage positions face additional limits:

  • Recruit for at least 8 consecutive weeks within the 3 months before applying
  • Job Bank plus at least 2 methods targeting under-represented groups
  • Cap of 10% low-wage TFWs per work location (20% in some sectors)
  • Not processed in metropolitan areas with unemployment of 6% or higher
Fees

Processing Fee

$1,000 per position requested. The fee is non-refundable and cannot be paid by or recovered from the worker.

PROCESS

From Job Offer to Work Permit

Position Assessment

Wage stream, occupation and eligibility

Recruitment

Compliant advertising and records

LMIA Application

Submission to ESDC

Work Permit

Worker applies to IRCC with the LMIA

FAQ
Not on its own. ESDC expects the wage to match the prevailing wage for the occupation and what Canadians and permanent residents in similar roles are paid.
No. The $1,000 processing fee cannot be paid by or recovered from the temporary foreign worker.
ESDC does not process low-wage LMIA applications for positions in census metropolitan areas with an unemployment rate of 6% or higher, unless an exemption applies. We can check your location and options.

Requirements change frequently. The information on this page summarizes IRCC and ESDC guidance as reviewed in September 2026 and is for general information only. For current rules, see the official Government of Canada page, or book a consultation for advice on your situation.

NEXT STEP

Hiring from Abroad?

A refused LMIA costs time and the full processing fee. We help employers plan recruitment and documentation correctly from the start.

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