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Basic Service Process

Benefits

Work permit holders in Canada benefit significantly from various immigration opportunities, and their families also enjoy substantial advantages, including the potential for reunification and access to essential services.

 Access to Social Services: Work permit holders and their families may have access to social services, healthcare, and educational opportunities for their children, enhancing their quality of life in Canada.

 Education for Children: Dependent children of work permit holders can attend public schools in Canada at no cost, providing them with quality education while living in the country.

 Open Work Permit for Spouses: Spouses of certain work permit holders may be eligible for an open work permit, allowing them to work in Canada while their partner is employed.

 Pathway to Permanent Residency: Many work permit holders can apply for permanent residency through various immigration programs, such as the Canadian Experience Class, Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), or Express Entry. Work experience gained in Canada can significantly enhance their eligibility.

Question Answering

Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) Questions

  • What is an LMIA, and why is it required?

    An LMIA is a document that an employer needs to obtain from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) before hiring a foreign worker. It confirms that there is a need for a foreign worker and no Canadian worker is available for the job.

  • When is an LMIA required?

    An LMIA is generally necessary when an employer intends to hire a temporary foreign worker through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program. This requirement applies to both high-wage and low-wage roles, as well as to certain specialized streams, such as the Global Talent Stream.However, some work permit categories, like those under the International Mobility Program (IMP),are LMIA-exempt.

  • What are the requirements for an employer to apply for an LMIA?

    Employers must demonstrate efforts to recruit Canadians, such as posting the job for at least four weeks on the Canada Job Bank and possibly on other recruitment channels. They also need to provide details on the job, salary, and working conditions.

  • What does the LMIA approval mean for the work permit application?

    An LMIA approval allows the foreign worker to apply for a work permit or a permanent residency but does not guarantee the permit itself, as additional eligibility criteria must be met by the applicant.

  • Is an LMIA transferable to another job or employer?

    No, LMIAs are specific to the job and employer listed in the application. A new LMIA application is required if a different employer wants to hire the worker or if the job material change.

  • What is the validity period of an LMIA?

    An LMIA is typically valid for six months from the date of issue, meaning the foreign worker must apply for a work permit or permanent residency within that period. If the work permit application is not submitted within this period, a new LMIA application may be required