Labour Market Impact Assessment application processing times

Jul 4, 2024 | Press Room

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Processing times

Processing times of Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) applications can vary for many reasons, including the number of applications received by the Temporary Foreign Worker (TFW) Program.

The table below, which is updated monthly, shows the average processing time by stream. Consider these times to help you plan for your employment needs.

Average processing times for June 2024
Stream Time in business days
Global Talent Stream 7
Agricultural stream 13
Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program 5
High-wage stream 51
Low-wage stream 54
Permanent resident stream 86

When your application processing time starts

We start processing your application once you submit a complete LMIA application using LMIA Online.

An application is considered complete when:

  • all required documents are provided for the stream you’re applying to
  • the employer has signed all required documents
  • you’ve paid the processing fee (if applicable)
    • incomplete applications won’t be processed and you won’t be charged the processing fee

For positions in Quebec for an employment period of more than 30 consecutive days

An application is considered complete when:

For more information, consult Hiring in the province of Quebec.

When your application processing time ends

Your application processing time ends when you receive a decision letter from Service Canada. You’ll get either a positive or negative decision on your LMIA. If your LMIA is positive, provide a copy of the decision letter to the TFWs so they can apply for a work permit.

Source: canada.ca