If you’re finding it hard to hire locally, the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a great tool for bringing in foreign talent. It’s the Canadian government’s way of making sure that hiring internationally is only necessary when there aren’t qualified locals. But how does the LMIA process work, and how can it benefit your business in the long term?
How to Get an LMIA: A Simple Breakdown
Step 1: Post the Job Locally
The first thing you need to do is post your job on platforms like the Government Job Bank for a minimum of four weeks. You also need to advertise in other channels like industry-specific job boards or local newspapers. This step shows that you’ve made a genuine effort to hire locally.
"Struggling to find local talent? The LMIA can open doors to hiring top foreign workers."
Step 2: Keep Track of Your Recruitment Efforts
You’ll need to document everything—from where you posted the job to the interviews you conducted. It’s important to show that you did your best to hire Canadian citizens or permanent residents and explain why those candidates weren’t a fit.
Step 3: Submit the LMIA Application
Once your recruitment period is over, it’s time to submit your LMIA application to Service Canada. You’ll include all your documentation, and yes, it can feel like a lot! But here’s the good news: after approval, you’ll be able to hire a foreign worker. This part of the process can take around 8 to 16 weeks, so plan accordingly.
The Benefits of an LMIA for Your Business
Here’s where it gets interesting. Hiring through the LMIA process doesn’t just fill your open roles—it offers some unique benefits that can have a lasting impact on your company.
"Boost retention with closed work permits—foreign workers hired under an LMIA are more likely to stay long-term."
"Knowledge transfer is a powerful benefit of hiring globally—bring fresh skills and perspectives to your team."
- Employee Retention Through Closed Work Permits
When you hire a foreign worker with an LMIA, they receive a closed work permit, meaning they can only work for your company. This provides stability because your new hire is committed to working with you for the duration of their permit, typically one to two years. It’s a great way to reduce turnover and increase retention, especially for roles that are hard to fill.
- Knowledge Transfer
When you bring in global talent, you’re not just filling a job—you’re enriching your team. Foreign workers often bring unique skills and perspectives that can lead to knowledge transfer within your company. Whether it’s new ideas, methods, or technical expertise, your local team can benefit from the fresh perspective your new hire brings.
- Bridging Skills Gaps
Some industries in Canada face chronic skills shortages, like tech or construction. By using the LMIA to hire internationally, you can bridge these gaps and keep your business running smoothly. It’s a strategic way to bring in specialized talent that might not be available locally.
- Long-term Planning
Many foreign workers aim to become permanent residents, which means that while you’re filling an immediate need, you’re also potentially gaining a long-term employee. This offers stability for your team and helps you avoid constantly filling the same positions over and over.
Timelines to Expect
The LMIA process can take a bit of time, so it’s important to plan ahead. Here’s a rough timeline:
- Job Posting: 4 weeks minimum.
- Recruitment Documentation: 1 to 2 weeks to organize all your records.
- Service Canada Processing: 8 to 16 weeks, depending on the role and region.
- Work Permit Processing: After LMIA approval, it can take another 1 to 2 months, depending on the worker’s country of origin.
"Plan ahead: the LMIA process takes around 3 to 4 months from start to finish."
All in all, you’re looking at a total timeline of about 3 to 4 months from start to finish. While it takes time, the long-term benefits—like retention and access to specialized talent—can make it well worth the effort.
"The LMIA isn’t just about filling vacancies, it’s a strategic solution for long-term growth."
Need Help Navigating the LMIA Process?
If you’re ready to hire globally but need help navigating the LMIA process, contact us today. We can streamline the process and ensure you’re set up for success.
