Work in Canada
LMIA Processing Times in Canada – September 2025 Update and What Employers Need to Know
The Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) plays a vital role in Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker (TFW) Program, ensuring that hiring foreign talent does not negatively impact the local job market. For employers and applicants planning their workforce strategies, staying updated on LMIA processing times is crucial. Service Canada has released the average processing times for September 2025, revealing how long it currently takes to process applications across different streams.
The data shows that while some categories, such as the Global Talent Stream, remain efficient, others like the Permanent Resident stream require significantly longer processing periods.
LMIA Processing Times for September 2025
| Stream | Processing Time (Business Days) |
| Global Talent Stream | 8 |
| Agricultural Stream | 13 |
| Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program | 7 |
| High-Wage Stream | 38 |
| Low-Wage Stream | 41 |
| Permanent Resident Stream | 260 |
These times represent the average number of business days taken by Service Canada to process completed LMIA applications during September 2025. However, it’s important to note that these figures can fluctuate monthly based on application volume, regional demand, and verification requirements.
Understanding LMIA Processing Steps
The LMIA process begins once a complete application is received by Service Canada. To be considered complete:
- All required documents must be submitted.
- The employer must sign every necessary form.
- The processing fee (if applicable) must be paid.
Incomplete submissions will not be processed, and fees won’t be charged, making accuracy and documentation essential for timely approval.
Special Rules for LMIA Applications in Quebec
For positions located in Quebec lasting more than 30 consecutive days, employers must submit applications simultaneously to both Service Canada and Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI). Applications must also meet Quebec’s formatting requirements, which differ slightly from federal standards.
Employers hiring in Quebec should always verify the latest updates on the Hiring in Quebec page to ensure compliance with both federal and provincial immigration regulations.
When Does the LMIA Processing Time End?
Your LMIA application processing time concludes once Service Canada issues a decision letter.
You’ll receive either:
- A Positive LMIA allows you to proceed with hiring and enabling the foreign worker to apply for a work permit.
- A Negative LMIA, if the application does not meet labour market requirements or documentation standards.
Employers who receive a positive LMIA should promptly share the decision letter with their selected Temporary Foreign Workers to facilitate work permit applications without delay.
LMIA Streams Explained
Here’s a quick overview of each LMIA stream and what employers should expect:
| Stream | Purpose | Ideal For |
| Global Talent Stream | Fast-track processing for in-demand tech and innovation roles. | Employers hiring IT, AI, or STEM professionals. |
| Agricultural Stream | Supports year-round farm operations. | Agricultural businesses needing skilled labour. |
| Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP) | Addresses seasonal farm labour shortages. | Farms hiring for seasonal harvest periods. |
| High-Wage Stream | For positions offering wages above the median provincial wage. | Employers hiring experienced professionals. |
| Low-Wage Stream | For roles offering below the median provincial wage. | Service, retail, and entry-level roles. |
| Permanent Resident Stream | For employers supporting workers transitioning to PR. | Businesses sponsoring long-term employees. |
Factors That Affect LMIA Processing Times
Processing timelines can vary widely depending on several factors:
- Volume of applications received during the month.
- Accuracy and completeness of employer documentation.
- Sector-specific demand, especially in agriculture and tech.
- Regional processing centre workload.
- Verification or employer compliance checks by Service Canada.
Employers planning to hire through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program should monitor monthly LMIA updates to avoid unexpected delays in recruitment timelines.
Why Monitoring LMIA Processing Times Matters
Staying informed about current LMIA processing times helps employers:
- Anticipate workforce needs in advance.
- Align recruitment schedules with immigration approvals.
- Minimize downtime and project delays caused by staffing gaps.
For foreign workers, it also means better planning for work permit applications and relocation timelines.
Planning Ahead with the Latest LMIA Processing Times
The latest update from Service Canada highlights the importance of preparation, accuracy, and timing when applying for an LMIA. With the Global Talent Stream averaging just 8 business days and the Permanent Resident Stream taking up to 260 days, employers must plan strategically based on their sector and hiring needs.
Whether you’re an employer seeking skilled talent or a worker applying under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program, our team ensures every step aligns with the latest LMIA processing timelines in Canada.
