Canada Updates LMIA Processing Times on January 15, 2026 as Key Streams See Delays

Canada has revised the processing timelines for Labour Market Impact Assessment applications, adding new planning pressure for employers and foreign workers. On January 15, 2026, Employment and Social Development Canada released updated average processing times across LMIA streams, showing notable increases in several major categories, including agriculture, permanent residence, and high-wage positions.

The update reflects data from all processing centres and is based on applications finalized in December 2025. While some streams remain stable, others now face longer wait periods, potentially affecting hiring timelines and work permit strategies in early 2026.

Current LMIA Processing Times by Stream

According to the updated figures, average processing times now stand at:

• Global Talent Stream: 10 business days
• Agricultural stream: 15 business days (+1 day)
• Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program: 10 business days
• High-wage stream: 50 business days (+4 days)
• Low-wage stream: 44 business days
• Permanent Residence stream: 274 business days (+8 days)

While short-duration streams tied to urgent labour needs remain relatively fast, the increase in permanent residence and high-wage streams is drawing attention from employers planning long-term workforce solutions.

Why Some LMIA Streams are Slowing Down

Processing times fluctuate based on application volume, complexity, and program priorities. Employment and Social Development Canada has emphasized that these figures represent averages and can vary significantly month to month.

Several factors are contributing to longer timelines:

• Higher LMIA application volumes in permanent pathways
• Increased scrutiny in high-wage positions to protect domestic labour
• Administrative complexity in applications linked to permanent residence

The Permanent Residence stream’s timeline, now averaging 274 business days, remains the longest, underscoring the extensive review involved in applications intended to support permanent immigration.

Streams that Remain Stable

Despite the increases elsewhere, the Global Talent Stream continues to process applications in 10 business days, reflecting Canada’s priority to attract highly skilled workers in technology and innovation sectors. Similarly, the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program remains unchanged at 10 business days, ensuring timely access to labour for time-sensitive farming operations.

These stable timelines suggest that Canada is maintaining expedited processing where economic urgency is highest.

When LMIA Processing Officially Begins and Ends

An LMIA application is considered “in processing” only once it is complete. This means:

• All required documents are submitted
• All forms are signed
• Processing fees are paid

Incomplete applications are returned and not processed, which can significantly delay hiring plans.

Processing ends when Service Canada issues a decision letter. A positive LMIA allows the employer to support a foreign worker’s work permit application, while a negative decision ends the process.

Special Rules for Quebec-Based Positions

For jobs in Quebec lasting more than 30 consecutive days, LMIA applications must be submitted simultaneously to Service Canada and Quebec’s immigration ministry. Applications must also meet provincial format requirements. Failure to coordinate submissions can lead to processing delays or refusals.

What This Means for Employers and Workers

The updated timelines reinforce the need for early planning. Employers relying on high-wage or permanent residence LMIAs should factor in longer wait times and consider interim staffing strategies where possible.

For foreign workers, understanding LMIA timelines is critical when aligning work permit expiry dates, employer transitions, or permanent residence plans.

As labour shortages persist, LMIA processing times will remain a key indicator of how quickly Canada can respond to workforce demand.

Hiring Foreign Workers or Planning an LMIA-Supported Work Permit?

Stay informed with Canada Immigration News for the latest LMIA processing updates, employer guidance, and immigration policy changes affecting Canadian hiring in 2026.