The Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is the document Canadian employers must obtain before hiring most foreign workers. This guide covers every significant 2026 update to the LMIA process — including the reduced validity period, fee structure, and processing timelines.
Key 2026 LMIA Updates
- LMIA validity reduced to 6 months — down from 18 months. Workers must apply for their work permit within this tighter window after employer receives approval.
- Low-wage stream: one-year contracts only — and employers are limited to 10% of their workforce under this stream.
- High-wage threshold increased — now set at provincial/territorial median wage plus 20%, effective from late 2024 and continuing into 2026.
- Montreal and Laval freeze continues — no low-wage LMIAs in these Quebec regions until December 31, 2026.
- Agricultural advertising reinstated — employers in primary agriculture must again provide proof of recruitment efforts from January 1, 2026.
- LMIA-exempt paths prioritised — Canada’s 2026 immigration levels plan targets 170,000 new LMIA-exempt work permit holders vs. 60,000 LMIA-based spots.
LMIA Processing Times (March 2026)
| Stream | Average Processing (Business Days) |
|---|---|
| Global Talent Stream | 12 |
| Agricultural Stream | 15 |
| Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program | 10 |
| High-Wage Stream | 60 |
| Low-Wage Stream | 48 |
| Permanent Resident Stream | 244 |
LMIA Fees
The standard processing fee is CAD $1,000 per position, non-refundable regardless of outcome. Fee exemptions apply for families hiring caregivers for medical needs or childcare (gross income under $150,000).
The LMIA Application Process
1. Determine the Appropriate Stream
Compare the offered wage against the provincial or territorial median hourly wage. If at or above the median (plus 20% for 2026), apply under the High-Wage Stream. Below the median, use the Low-Wage Stream if the CMA’s unemployment rate is below 6%.
2. Conduct Genuine Recruitment
Employers must advertise the role for a minimum of four weeks on Canada’s Job Bank plus at least two other recruitment channels, targeting Canadians and permanent residents. Detailed records of all applications received and reasons for non-selection must be retained.
3. Submit the Application
Complete applications are submitted through the LMIA Online portal with all required supporting documents, employer signatures, and the processing fee. Processing begins only upon receipt of a complete application.
4. Receive Decision and Issue LMIA Number
A positive LMIA includes a 7-digit reference number. Share this number and the official job offer letter with the foreign worker so they can apply for their work permit through IRCC.
5. Worker Applies for Work Permit
The worker applies online or at a visa application centre, submitting the LMIA number, job offer letter, passport, language evidence, and any required biometrics.
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