LMIA Assessment Tool Canada 2026

LMIA requirements for hiring foreign workers in Canada. Calculates wage stream, advertising rules, employer costs, and processing times.

Key Takeaways

  • A positive LMIA is required before most employers can hire foreign workers on employer-specific work permits in Canada.
  • The wage stream (high-wage or low-wage) is determined by comparing the offered wage to the provincial/territorial median hourly wage.
  • As of April 1, 2026, low-wage stream employers must advertise for 8 weeks (doubled from 4 weeks).
  • Employers hiring low-wage workers face a cap of 20% of their workforce at each worksite.
  • Quebec employers need an additional Certificat d'acceptation du Québec (CAQ) from MIFI.

LMIA Assessment Tool — Labour Market Impact Assessment Requirements

A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a document that Canadian employers may need before hiring a foreign worker. It verifies that no Canadian worker or permanent resident is available to fill the position. Understanding the requirements, costs, and timeline helps employers plan their hiring strategy.

How It Works

Enter the province of employment, offered hourly wage, number of positions, and your current workforce composition. The tool determines your wage stream (high-wage, low-wage, or agricultural), calculates advertising requirements and employer costs, and estimates processing times.

High-Wage vs Low-Wage Stream

The wage stream is determined by comparing the offered hourly wage to the provincial or territorial median wage. High-wage positions (above median) require a transition plan showing how the employer will reduce reliance on temporary foreign workers. Low-wage positions (at or below median) face workforce caps and longer advertising requirements since April 2026.

Advertising Requirements

All LMIA applications require advertising on the Government of Canada Job Bank plus additional methods. Since April 1, 2026, low-wage stream positions must be advertised for a minimum of 8 weeks (previously 4 weeks). High-wage positions require 4 weeks. Agricultural stream positions require 2 weeks.

Key Facts

  • The LMIA application fee is $1,000 per position, paid by the employer.
  • As of April 1, 2026, low-wage LMIA advertising must run for 8 weeks minimum.
  • The low-wage TFW cap is 20% of the total workforce at each worksite.
  • Quebec employers must also obtain a CAQ ($216) from MIFI.
  • Processing times range from 8 to 20 weeks depending on the wage stream.

FAQ

How much does an LMIA cost?

The LMIA application fee is $1,000 per position requested, paid entirely by the employer. In Quebec, an additional $216 CAQ fee applies. Employers cannot recover these costs from the foreign worker.

How long does LMIA processing take?

Processing times vary by wage stream. High-wage applications typically take 8 to 12 weeks, low-wage applications 10 to 16 weeks, and agricultural applications 12 to 20 weeks. Quebec applications may take an additional 4 weeks due to the CAQ requirement.

What changed on April 1, 2026?

The minimum advertising period for low-wage LMIA positions doubled from 4 weeks to 8 weeks. This change was introduced to ensure employers make greater efforts to recruit Canadian workers and permanent residents before turning to temporary foreign workers.

What is the low-wage TFW cap?

Employers hiring low-wage temporary foreign workers are subject to a cap of 20% of their total workforce at each worksite. If hiring additional low-wage TFWs would exceed this cap, the LMIA application will likely be refused.

Updated April 2026. Information on this page is provided for educational purposes only. Tax rules, rates, and government programs may change — verify details with the CRA or a qualified financial advisor.