Work in Canada
ESDC Updates LMIA Processing Times Across Six Streams
Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) has updated Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) processing times. The update, posted on October 7, 2026, draws on statistics from all processing centres. Average times fell for most streams. The Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program and the High wage stream moved up. The Low wage stream did not change.
LMIA Processing Times – The Numbers, Stream by Stream
The Global Talent Stream now averages 9 business days, one day faster. The Agricultural stream averages 22 business days, three days faster. The Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program averages 7 business days, up by one. The Permanent Resident stream averages 79 business days, a drop of 77 days. The High wage stream averages 98 business days, up by eight. The Low wage stream remains at 82.
A Big Move in the Permanent Resident Stream
The standout figure is the Permanent Resident stream. A 77 day improvement is rare. ESDC notes that numbers can swing from month to month based on application volume. So the result may reflect a lighter caseload as much as faster handling. Employers should enjoy the improvement but not assume it will last.
What Counts as Processing Time
ESDC defines processing time as the average number of business days Service Canada needs to assess an application and make a decision once all required information has been received. The clock starts when an employer submits a complete application through LMIA Online. It stops when a decision letter arrives. The figures describe LMIAs processed last month. They are an aid for planning, not a promise.
When an Application Counts as Complete
Completeness matters. All required documents for the stream must be included. The employer must sign every required form. Any applicable fee must be paid. Incomplete applications are not processed, and the fee is not charged. For jobs in Quebec lasting more than 30 consecutive days, the employer must also file with Quebec’s Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI) at the same time, in the required format.
The Hidden Time Before You Apply
Advertising comes first. Depending on the stream, employers must advertise for 14 days to eight weeks within the three months before submitting. That time is not included in the published numbers. ESDC advises applying as soon as possible, and up to six months before the expected start date. Foreign nationals should apply for a work permit with IRCC after the employer receives a positive LMIA. IRCC guidance also references timing near permit expiry.
What It Means in Calendar Time
Business days understate the wait. A figure of 98 business days equals about 20 weeks. The Low wage stream at 82 days equals roughly 16 weeks. Even the quick Global Talent Stream at 9 business days means close to two weeks. Add advertising and work permit steps, and a hiring plan quickly stretches across several months.
Practical Tips for Employers and Workers
Employers can protect their timelines in simple ways. Review the stream requirements before advertising. Keep records of every recruitment step. Make sure signatories are available when forms need signing. Check every document before you submit through LMIA Online. These steps reduce the risk of an incomplete application.
Workers can prepare too. Keep passports valid. Gather education and experience documents. Track permit expiry dates. Keep contact details current with IRCC. When a positive LMIA arrives, move quickly on the work permit application.
Why Transparency Strengthens the System
Canada’s LMIA process protects Canadian workers while allowing employers to fill genuine gaps. Regular public updates give businesses transparency. That openness is a strength of the system and helps everyone plan.
What Comes Next
ESDC will update the table again next month. Employers should track each release and adjust hiring plans. Workers should keep their documents current and watch for IRCC updates that affect work permits.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did ESDC update LMIA processing times?
ESDC updated the figures on October 7, 2026.
Which streams got faster?
The Global Talent Stream, the Agricultural stream and the Permanent Resident stream improved.
Which streams got slower?
The Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program rose by one day and the High wage stream rose by eight days.
Did the Low wage stream change?
No. It stayed at 82 business days.
Does advertising time count in processing times?
No. Required advertising occurs before submission and is not included.
Stay Updated
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