LMIA & work permit applications

Canadian employers can support the permanent residence or temporary residence (work permit) application of a prospective employee in two primary ways:

1. Through the Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) process, which is administered by Employment and Social Development Canada; or
2. Through a job offer under a Provincial Nominee Program (for example, Ontario's OINP).

These programs differ significantly in terms of employer eligibility, application processes, costs, and other required criteria. In most instances, a positive LMIA letter is a prerequisite for a work permit application, unless the applicant is eligible for an open work permit (e.g., a post-graduate work permit or PR applicants under the family class category). A positive LMIA letter also serves as a confirmation of a job offer, enabling Express Entry applicants to gain an additional 50 or 200 points in support of their PR application. This letter will be issued once Employment and Social Development Canada is satisfied that the employer has made genuine efforts to recruit a Canadian citizen or permanent resident before offering the job to a foreign national. A positive LMIA letter significantly enhances an applicant's immigration prospects by boosting their CRS score within the Express Entry system.

If you are a Canadian employer seeking to support a worker's work permit or PR application through the LMIA process, our team can offer professional assistance at each stage of the process, ensuring that you successfully navigate the complex requirements and procedures.

CANADIAN COMPANIES & BUSINESSES:

In today's global marketplace, Canadian companies and businesses must continually seek new talent from abroad to maintain a competitive edge. Ensuring the swift integration of new foreign workers and effectively retaining existing foreign employees necessitates attentive management of their immigration law matters. New recruits and current foreign employees consistently require support in navigating various immigration issues. We provide comprehensive legal immigration assistance and personalized attention tailored to the needs of your existing or prospective employees, including:

1. Securing new work permits (through Labour Market Impact Assessment applications);
2. Extending existing work permits or obtaining bridging work permits;
3. Acquiring study permits and temporary resident visas for employees' family members;
4. Obtaining permanent residence (via Express Entry, provincial nominee programs, and family sponsorships);
5. Renewing PR cards and advising on permanent resident status;
6. Securing Canadian citizenship and providing guidance on citizenship matters;
7. Advising employers on immigration laws, obligations, compliance, and audits; and
8. Preparing applications and offering counsel related to inadmissibility.

By engaging our services, you can be confident that your organization and employees will receive the necessary support and guidance to address various immigration matters, ultimately benefiting your company and its continued success in the global market.