What is a Labour Market Impact Assessment?

A Labour Market Impact Assessment, formerly known as a Labour Market Opinion, is a legal document provided by Employment and Social Development Canada that will allow a skilled worker to work in Canada.

A positive Labour Market Impact Assessment will determine that there are no qualified Canadians or permanent residents seeking the position that the skilled worker wishes to have and will allow the skilled worker to apply for a work permit.

What You Will Need

If you wish to come to Canada as a Foreign Worker, you will have to have a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment. This process begins with your prospective employer making an application to Employment and Social Development Canada.

Once an immigration officer issues a Labour Market Impact Assessment, if it is positive, you will be able to apply for a work permit. If your work permit is successful, you will be permitted to work in Canada for the duration set out on your work permit.

Things You Should Know

All applicants applying for the Temporary Foreign Workers Program will require a Labour Market Impact Assessment; exempt occupations are now part of the International Mobility Program

  • After the transition from a Labour Market Opinion to a Labour Market Impact Assessment, your employer will now need to put a greater effort into showing that they made an effort to advertise the occupation
  • The LMIA relies more heavily on wages offered
  • Your employer will need to refer to NOC in order to determine the occupation’s duties and job title
  • Your employer should advertise according to the requirements of NOC
  • Time will be needed to process a work permit, and so you should consider this in your plans
  • The valid length of your Labour Market Impact Assessment determines the length of your work permit

How We Can Help

The Labour Market Impact Assessment is a crucial part of a Temporary Foreign Worker’s application. Without one, you will not be permitted to apply for a work permit and therefore not allowed to legitimately work in Canada.

At Akrami & Associates, we can assist you with:

  • Assessing your situation and what is required of you
  • Complete any applications involved
  • Contact your employer
  • Of course, be with you every step of the way