Employers and foreign workers navigating the Canadian immigration system must keep up with Labour Market Impact Assessment processing times. On June 1, 2024, the Temporary Foreign Worker (TFW) Program modified its typical processing times to reflect current trends and ensure a more efficient planning process for candidates.

Why Are Processing Times for Canada LMIA Important?

The processing period for Canada LMIA applications varies depending on numerous factors, including the volume of applications received and the specific stream applied to. Knowing these times allows firms to better plan their hiring tactics and ensures that temporary foreign workers can appropriately predict their timetables.

Canada's current LMIA processing times by stream


The table below, updated monthly, shows the average processing times for various LMIA streams as of May 2024:

The Global Talent Stream :- 7
Agricultural Stream :- 17
Seasonal Agricultural Workers' Program :- 8
High-wage Stream :- 43
Low-wage stream :- 50
Permanent Resident Stream :- 81

These processing durations are crucial for planning purposes, and they can vary depending on the amount of applications and the individual needs of each stream.

Starting the Canada LMIA processing.


When you submit a completed LMIA application using LMIA Online, your application will begin processing. An application is deemed complete when:

  • All necessary paperwork for the applied stream are provided.
  • The employer has signed all of the appropriate documentation.
  • The processing fee (if applicable) has been paid.

 

Incomplete applications will not be processed and will not incur a processing fee. For positions in Quebec that last more than 30 days, the application must be filed concurrently to Service Canada and Quebec's Ministère de l'Immigration, de la Francisation et de l'Intégration (MIFI), using the provincial format and includes the TFWs' names.


Closing the Canada LMIA Processing


The application processing time ends when you receive a decision letter from Service Canada. This letter can be either good or negative. If your LMIA is positive, you must give the TFWs a copy of the decision letter so they can apply for a work visa.

Factors Influencing Canada's LMIA Processing Times


Several factors can affect the processing times for LMIA applications, including:


High volume of applications can result in lengthier processing times.
Application Completeness: To avoid delays, ensure that all necessary documents and information are submitted.
Specific Stream Requirements: Each stream has its own requirements and processing times.

To guarantee a smooth and quick LMIA application procedure, consider the following suggestions:

 

Gather all required documents and information before beginning your application.

Ensure that you meet all of the requirements for the specific stream to which you are applying.

Applying well in advance can assist to avoid potential delays.

Regularly check for updates on processing timeframes and requirements.


Understanding and keeping up with Canada's LMIA processing times is critical for both businesses and international workers. The most recent modifications for 2024 reflect continued attempts to streamline and optimize the process, making it more effective for everyone involved. Staying knowledgeable and prepared will allow you to manage the LMIA application process more confidently and easily.

                                                 
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