On August 16, 2024, Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) released the latest updates on the processing times for Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) applications. These changes affect various streams, reflecting the current workload and efficiency at the processing centers. For employers and applicants involved in the Temporary Foreign Worker (TFW) Program, understanding these updates is essential for planning and managing timelines effectively.
What is the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)?
The Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a crucial document that Canadian employers need to hire temporary foreign workers. It demonstrates that hiring a foreign worker is necessary because no Canadian citizen or permanent resident is available to fill the position. The LMIA is a prerequisite for the foreign worker’s work permit application.
Updated LMIA Processing Times by Stream
ESDC’s recent update highlights a general increase in processing times across most LMIA streams, with only the Permanent Residence stream seeing a slight decrease. Here’s a breakdown of the new processing times:
- Global Talent Stream: 8 business days (+1 day)
- Agricultural Stream: 19 business days (+6 days)
- Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program: 7 business days (+2 days)
- Permanent Residence Stream: 85 business days (-1 day)
- High-Wage Stream: 52 business days (+1 day)
- Low-Wage Stream: 57 business days (+3 days)
Key Takeaways
Increased Processing Times: The majority of streams, including the Agricultural and Low-Wage streams, have experienced a noticeable increase in processing times. This trend suggests a growing volume of applications or more rigorous processing requirements.
Global Talent Stream: Although the Global Talent Stream remains the fastest, its processing time has increased by one day, now taking an average of 8 business days.
Permanent Residence Stream: The only stream with a reduced processing time, now averaging 85 business days, which is one day shorter than before.
Why Are Processing Times Important?
Understanding LMIA processing times is critical for employers planning to hire temporary foreign workers. Delays in processing can affect business operations, especially in industries like agriculture, where seasonal work is time-sensitive. By being aware of the updated times, employers can better align their hiring strategies with the expected timelines.
Planning Around LMIA Processing Times
Employers should consider the following tips to navigate the updated processing times:
Submit Applications Early: Given the increased processing times, it’s advisable to submit LMIA applications well in advance to avoid delays in hiring.
Ensure Completeness: An application is only processed once it’s complete. This means all required documents must be submitted, and the employer must have signed all necessary forms. Double-checking the application before submission can prevent unnecessary delays.
Stay Informed: ESDC updates processing times regularly. Keeping track of these updates can help employers adjust their plans accordingly.
The LMIA Process: From Start to Finish
To better understand the timeline, it’s important to know when the LMIA application processing starts and ends.
When Does the Processing Time Begin?
The processing time begins as soon as you submit a complete LMIA application through the LMIA Online system. For the application to be considered complete:
- All required documents must be included.
- The employer must have signed all necessary forms.
- The processing fee, if applicable, must be paid.
For applications in Quebec, additional requirements include simultaneous submission to both Service Canada and Quebec’s Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI).
When Does the Processing Time End?
Processing ends when Service Canada issues a decision letter. This letter will either be a positive or negative decision on the LMIA application. If positive, the employer must provide a copy of the decision letter to the temporary foreign worker, who will then use it to apply for a work permit.
The recent changes to LMIA processing times announced by ESDC reflect a dynamic environment where application volumes and processing efficiency are continuously evolving. Employers looking to hire through the TFW Program should stay updated on these times to ensure smooth and timely hiring processes.
Planning ahead, submitting complete applications, and staying informed are key to navigating these changes successfully. For further assistance with your LMIA application or understanding these updates, ImmigCanada is here to help. Our team of experts can guide you through the process, ensuring your application is handled with the utmost care and efficiency.
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