Reviewed October 9, 2026
LMIA and Work Permits
Employers and workers have different responsibilities when hiring a temporary foreign worker. A positive LMIA is not a work permit.
Employer assessment
The Temporary Foreign Worker Program uses different LMIA streams with their own wage, recruitment and employment requirements. Check the current rules, regional restrictions and processing eligibility before applying. Employers must comply with applicable program conditions.
Worker application
Where an LMIA is required, the worker generally uses the positive decision and job documents to apply for a work permit. IRCC assesses the worker’s eligibility and admissibility. Other jobs may qualify for an LMIA exemption under separate rules.
Permanent residence planning
An LMIA or job offer does not guarantee permanent residence. The former 50 and 200 additional Express Entry CRS job-offer points were removed in March 2025. An offer may still matter for eligibility under particular programs.
Our Windsor team can review your circumstances and documents and explain the services available under an agreed retainer. Government authorities decide applications; eligibility, invitations and approval are not guaranteed.
Official information: Check the latest program requirements. Intake, fees and processing times can change.