ESDC updated processing times for LMIA applications
February 16, 2025
On December 14, 2023, Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) updated the processing times for the LMIA applications under various streams. Based on statistics from all processing centers, the current average LMIA processing times have decreased only for the Global Talent Stream.
- Global Talent Stream – 6 business days (-3 days)
- Agricultural stream – 12 business days (+1 day)
- Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program – 8 business days
- Permanent residence Stream – 77 business days (+20 days)
- In-home caregivers – 23 business days (+3 days)
- High-wage Stream – 44 business days
- Low-wage Stream – 49 business days
Service Canada is committed to providing a positive client experience to all Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) applicants and recognizes that the program, through its various delivery streams, is critical to addressing labor shortages in Canada and meeting the needs of Canadian businesses.
LMIA applications processing times can vary depending on the number of applications received by the TFWP.
Thinking of applying for an LMIA? Don’t risk rejection! Get expert insights to maximize your approval chances.
Impact of LMIA on PR Applications
Having a positive LMIA can boost Express Entry CRS scores and improve Permanent Residency chances. Many applicants use LMIA job offers as a stepping stone to secure PR faster.
About Global Talent Stream: LMIA Applications
The Global Talent Stream provides timely, responsive, and predictable client-focused service to assist you in gaining access to highly skilled global talent in order to expand your workforce in Canada and remain competitive on a global scale. This stream is intended for innovative Canadian firms that have been referred to Service Canada by a designated referral partner and require unique and specialized foreign nationals to scale up and grow. It’s also intended for Canadian businesses looking to fill a high-demand, highly-skilled position on the Global Talent Occupations List. LMIA applications
Can I get PR in Canada on LMIA?
Yes, you can gain Permanent Residency (PR) in Canada through a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), but it will depend on various factors. An LMIA-approved job offer supports your immigration application, particularly under the Express Entry system, since it can add 50 or 200 points to your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, depending on the skill level of the job. LMIA applications
Most Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) also give preference to applicants with LMIA-approved job offers, raising their chances of being nominated, which guarantees an additional CRS points—nearly guaranteeing an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for PR. Having an LMIA, though, does not assure PR; you need to fulfill all the requirements for Express Entry or an applicable PNP stream. If you seek professional advice in streamlining your PR process by way of an LMIA job opportunity, we can help you leverage your immigration potential.
Can I bring my family to Canada on LMIA?
Yes, you can bring your dependents to Canada on an LMIA-based work permit, making it a great chance for a brighter future. If you obtain a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) and have a valid work permit, your spouse or common-law partner can apply for an open work permit, which will enable them to work with any employer in Canada. LMIA applications
Also, your dependent children can join you and can pursue studies in Canada with the required permits. This makes LMIA a great way for skilled workers to settle with their families along with accruing Canadian work experience. However, the requirements and eligibility may differ depending on particular LMIA categories, so it is recommended to consult an immigration expert to make the process hassle-free. LMIA applications
If you want to know more details about the “ESDC updated processing times for LMIA applications in December” you can contact one of our immigration specialists at Gunness & Associates.
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