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Canada LMIA Processing Times 2025 Updated
Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) applications play a key role in Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker (TFW) Program. Employers rely on these approvals to fill job roles when no suitable Canadian worker is available. But one question always stands out — how long will it take to get an LMIA approved?
With updated data for March 2025 now released, it’s clear that processing times can vary widely depending on the stream. If you’re an employer planning to hire foreign talent or a worker waiting for your LMIA decision, this latest information will help you plan ahead.
Let’s break down the current Canada LMIA processing times and what impacts them.
Latest Canada LMIA Processing Times by Stream
The Temporary Foreign Worker Program updates LMIA processing times each month based on how many applications they’ve handled. In March 2025, these were the average processing times across different streams:
| Stream | Average Time (Business Days) |
| Global Talent Stream | 7 |
| Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program | 8 |
| Agricultural Stream | 16 |
| High-Wage Stream | 74 |
| Low-Wage Stream | 74 |
| Permanent Resident Stream | 165 |
As you can see, applications under the Global Talent Stream continue to be processed the fastest, taking just 7 business days on average. On the other hand, those under the Permanent Resident stream may wait up to 165 business days.
Why Do LMIA Processing Times Differ So Much?
Processing times aren’t fixed. Several factors can affect how quickly Service Canada processes LMIA applications, such as:
- Number of applications received during a given month.
- Completeness of the submitted application — incomplete applications cause delays.
- Type of stream applied under, as some have priority service standards (like Global Talent Stream).
- Position location and duration, especially if the job is in Quebec, where additional provincial approvals are required.
The Canada LMIA processing times essentially begin the day a complete application is submitted, with all required documents and fees in place. Missing any information will pause the process.
Important Notes for Employers Hiring in Quebec
For jobs based in Quebec, there’s an extra step. LMIA applications must be submitted to both Service Canada and Quebec’s Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI) simultaneously, following specific submission formats. This can impact overall processing time, especially for positions lasting more than 30 consecutive days.
Employers should make sure to coordinate this dual submission properly to avoid additional delays.
When Does LMIA Processing Officially Start and End?
To avoid confusion, here’s a clear outline:
- Processing starts: When a complete application with all documents, signatures, and payment is submitted.
- Processing ends: When Service Canada issues a decision letter, either approving or denying the LMIA.
If approved, employers should provide a copy of the positive LMIA decision to their foreign workers, so they can proceed to apply for a Canadian work permit.
Stay Updated on Canada LMIA Processing Times
Keeping track of Canada LMIA processing times is crucial for employers and workers alike. It helps you set realistic hiring timelines and avoid unnecessary stress. While some streams, like the Global Talent Stream, offer rapid processing, others, like the Permanent Resident stream, can take several months.
Always ensure your application is complete, follow the correct submission procedures (especially in Quebec), and check monthly updates for the latest average processing times.
For more updates and expert insights on Canada LMIA processing times, stay connected with Canada Immigration News.
