CANADA: LABOUR MARKET IMPACT ASSESSMENT (LMIA) & WORK PERMIT PROCESS MAP
STEP 8: ENTRY TO CANADA STEP 1: INITIATION
Client initiates the case with FGI. FGI assesses work
Principal applicant (and any dependents) may
permit category and sends document checklist to the
now enter Canada. The actual work permit will
client. Client sends the documents listed on the checklist
be issued at the port of entry, upon
to FGI. Estimated Turnaround: 1- 3 days.
presentation of the approval letter (issued with
the visa). Applicant can start work after this
step. STEP 2: ADVERTISEMENT (LABOUR MARKET TEST)
Advertisement must be posted for at least 4 weeks.
STEP 7: ISSUANCE OF VISA & APPROVAL LETTER Employers are required to follow designation rules of
Once approved, the passport will be returned job advertising. Please see FGI for details. Employers
CANADA
to the applicant, endorsed with an must continue to actively seek qualified Canadians
employment visa (and temporary resident to fill the position until a LMIA has been issued. All
visas for dependents). A work permit approval documentation must be kept in a recruitment report
letter will also be issued. Estimated processing to be later submitted with the LMIA application.
time: 1-2 days Please note: the recruitment period only begins
once ALL advertisements are active.
STEP 6: MEDICAL EXAMINATION STEP 3: PREPARATION OF APPLICATION FORMS
Certain individuals will be required to undergo Application forms for the LMIA and the CAQ (if in
medical examination for the immigration Quebec) must be prepared. If using a representative,
procedure. Processing time: 6 weeks – 2 an authorization form must also be completed.
months
STEP 4: LMIA APPLICATION
STEP 5: WORK PERMIT & VISA SUBMISSION The LMIA application must be submitted to Human
Resources Skills and Development Canada
FGI will prepare case documentation. The applications for non- (HRSDC). Additional documentation is required for
visa exempt nationals can then be submitted to the Canadian applicants who will be working in Quebec.
High Commission. Estimated processing time: 6-8 weeks Estimated processing time: 3-5 months
