In 2026, the Canadian immigration landscape has shifted significantly. With the federal government actively working to reduce the number of temporary foreign workers in the country, obtaining a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is more challenging than ever.
If you are a Canadian business owner looking to hire or retain a foreign worker, you need a precise strategy to navigate these new hurdles. At Jennifer Roggemann Law, we help local businesses in Kitchener and beyond understand the complexities of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). Here is your up-to-date guide on how to get an LMIA in Canada this year.
What is an LMIA in Canada?
A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a document issued by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). It serves as proof that a Canadian employer tried to find a Canadian citizen or Permanent Resident to fill a position but was unsuccessful. A “positive” LMIA confirms that hiring a foreign worker will have a neutral or positive effect on the Canadian economy.
The 2026 “Daily Download” Rule: A New Job Bank Hurdle
One of the most critical updates for 2026 involves the Job Bank platform. As of January 2026, IRCC and ESDC have intensified their oversight of recruitment efforts for Canadian employers to seek for Canadian workers first..
The 21-Day Suspension Rule:
Canadian employers are now required to download all resumes received under their Job Bank post on a daily basis. If the system detects that no resumes have been downloaded for more than 21 days (3 weeks), the job advertisement will be automatically suspended.
- The Consequence: If your ad is suspended, your initial recruitment period is rendered null and void. You must restart the entire recruitment process from day one, delaying your application by at least a month.
Legal Insight: Even if a foreign worker has been with your company for years and possesses deep “institutional knowledge,” the government requires you to prove— again— that no Canadian is willing or able to do the job today.
How Can I Apply for an LMIA?
Applying for an LMIA is a multi-step process that must be completed through the LMIA Online Portal.
- Register: Create an account on the Job Bank for Employers and register your business.
- Advertise: Post the position on the Job Bank and at least two other recruitment platforms (e.g., Indeed, LinkedIn) for a minimum of 4 consecutive weeks.
- Review Applicants: You must interview every qualified Canadian candidate. You can only hire a foreign worker if you can provide a legitimate, documented reason why every Canadian applicant was not suitable.
- Submit the Application: Use the LMIA Online portal to submit form IMM 5629 (or the relevant stream form), and upload your recruitment records.
- Pay the Application Fee: After filing your LMIA, you will be asked to pay the $1,000 fee per position (unless exempt) – you must pay this fee within 48 business hours upon being requested. Otherwise, your application will fail automatically due to the lack of the application fee paid.
How to Check LMIA Status
Once submitted, you can check your LMIA status directly through the Employer Dashboard in the LMIA Online Portal. The portal provides real-time updates:
- Received: Your application is in the queue.
- In Progress: An officer is currently reviewing your recruitment efforts.
- Decision Rendered: Your positive or negative letter is ready for download.
How Long Does it Take to Get an LMIA Approved? (2026 Data)
Processing times have fluctuated as IRCC tightens the tap on temporary resident numbers. As of March 2026, average processing times (in business days) are:
| Stream | Average Processing Time |
| Global Talent Stream | 12 Business Days |
| High-Wage Stream | 60 Business Days |
| Low-Wage Stream | 48 Business Days |
| Permanent Resident Stream | 244 Business Days |
Note: Low-wage LMIAs are currently not being processed in regions where the unemployment rate is 6% or higher (e.g., Toronto and Edmonton are currently restricted).
Post-Approval: Keeping Your Status
A positive LMIA is not a blank check. To remain compliant and avoid heavy fines or bans, you must strictly follow the terms:
- Wages: You must pay the wage stated in the LMIA. You cannot decrease it, and you can only increase it by a maximum of 3% annually.
- Job Description: The worker must perform the exact duties listed. You cannot promote or demote a foreign worker without applying for a new LMIA/authorization.
How We Can Help
The LMIA process is now a high-stakes environment where a single missed day on the Job Bank can cost you months of time. If you have questions about your recruitment strategy or need help ensuring your application meets the strict 2026 standards, Jennifer Roggemann is here to help.