Working with Dean Szikinger and his team at Szikinger Immigration Law was a great experience for my LMIA application. They provided clear guidance, were responsive to my questions, and expertly handled every detail. Their professionalism ensured a smooth and successful process. Highly recommend!
STAN W.
Working with Dean Szikinger and his team at Szikinger Immigration Law was a great experience for my LMIA application. They provided clear guidance, were responsive to my questions, and expertly handled every detail. Their professionalism ensured a smooth and successful process. Highly recommend!
STAN W.
SERVICES > BUSINESS SERVICES > Labour Market Impact Assessment
Labour Market Impact Assessment
Understanding Labour Market Impact Assessments
A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a document that an employer in Canada may need before hiring a foreign worker.
A positive LMIA will show that there is a need for a foreign worker to fill the job. It will also show that no Canadian worker or permanent resident is available to do the job. A positive LMIA is sometimes called a confirmation letter. Once an employer gets an LMIA, a worker can apply for a work permit.
Find out if you need an LMIA
Most employers need an LMIA before they can hire a temporary foreign worker. Before you start the hiring process, you must determine if you need an LMIA.
An LMIA confirms
- There is a need for a temporary foreign worker
- No Canadians or permanent residents are available to do the job
If you are an employer, contact us to find out whether you and the temporary foreign worker you want to hire are exempt from needing an LMIA or work permit.
Navigating LMIA Processes
The LMIA process entails significant documentation including:
- Advertising efforts to find Canadians/permanent residents
- Details of the job offer and your relevant experience
- Economic benefits for Canada
We assist employers in obtaining positive LMIAs. Preparing error-free applications aligned to the latest ESDC guidance is key. Our expertise significantly improves LMIA approval potential on first submission without undue delays.
In case of unreasonable LMIA refusals, we can help to identify potential grounds for judicial review.
Avoiding LMIA Exemptions Pitfalls
Certain work permit categories allow LMIA exemptions if specific criteria are met – e.g. intra-company transfers and reciprocal agreements.
Our legal team guides you based on the specifics of your situation to determine if applying for an LMIA is advisable. Key considerations typically include:
- The nature of the job offer – duties, compensation, duration
- The relationship between you and the employer
- Provisions under international trade agreements
There are detailed program requirements that must be met in order for a positive LMIA to be issued. These include establishing business legitimacy, providing a transition plan, recruitment and advertisement, wages, job duties and working conditions, and workplace safety, among others.
We understand common areas where errors are made in LMIA applications and proactively test eligibility first. This helps develop the strongest legally compliant work authorization pathway attuned to your circumstances.