Work in Canada
Canada Updates LMIA Processing Times for 2026
Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) has released updated processing times for Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) applications across several immigration streams.
The new figures, published on March 4, 2026, are based on average processing times recorded in February 2026 across all LMIA processing centres.
The update shows that processing times improved in several streams, while two categories experienced slightly longer wait times.
Table of Contents
Updated LMIA Processing Times by Stream
According to ESDC, the latest average processing times are as follows:
- Global Talent Stream: 12 business days (+1 day)
- Agricultural Stream: 15 business days (-4 days)
- Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program: 10 business days (-6 days)
- Permanent Residence Stream: 244 business days (-33 days)
- High-Wage Stream: 60 business days (+4 days)
- Low-Wage Stream: 48 business days (-1 day)
The biggest improvement occurred in the Permanent Residence Stream, where processing times decreased by 33 days compared to previous estimates.
Understanding the LMIA Process
A Labour Market Impact Assessment is a document issued by Service Canada that allows Canadian employers to hire foreign workers when no Canadian citizen or permanent resident is available for the job.
A positive LMIA confirms that hiring a foreign worker will not negatively affect the Canadian labour market.
Employers must usually obtain an LMIA before a foreign worker can apply for a temporary work permit.
When LMIA Processing Begins
Processing times begin once a complete LMIA application has been submitted through the LMIA Online system.
An application is considered complete when:
- All required documents are included
- The employer has signed the necessary forms
- Processing fees have been paid where applicable
Incomplete applications are not processed and may be returned to the employer.
Special Rules for Quebec Applications
For LMIA applications involving employment in Quebec lasting more than 30 consecutive days, the process involves additional steps.
Employers must submit the application simultaneously to:
- Service Canada, and
- Quebec’s Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI)
Both authorities must review the application before a final decision is issued.
When the LMIA Processing Timeline Ends
Processing times conclude when the employer receives a decision letter from Service Canada.
The decision may be:
- Positive LMIA – allowing the employer to hire a foreign worker
- Negative LMIA – meaning the position cannot be filled by a foreign worker
If the LMIA is approved, the employer provides the decision letter to the worker, who can then apply for a work permit.
Importance for Employers and Foreign Workers
LMIA processing times are closely monitored by employers and immigration applicants because they influence work permit timelines and hiring plans.
While processing times may change monthly depending on application volumes, the latest update suggests improvements in several streams.
Employers planning to hire foreign workers are encouraged to consider these timelines when preparing their applications.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is an LMIA in Canada?
A Labour Market Impact Assessment is a document issued by Service Canada that allows employers to hire foreign workers when no Canadian citizen or permanent resident is available to fill the job.
2. Which LMIA stream saw the biggest processing improvement?
The Permanent Residence Stream saw the largest improvement, with processing times decreasing by 33 days.
3. How long does the Global Talent Stream take to process?
The Global Talent Stream currently averages about 12 business days for processing.
4. Why do LMIA processing times change?
Processing times vary depending on the number of applications received, staffing capacity, and application complexity.
