Hire Foreign Workers
Hire Foreign Workers
Canadian employers can hire foreign workers through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) or the International Mobility Program (IMP). The TFWP requires an LMIA, while the IMP is LMIA-exempt under specific international agreements.
Programs
TFWP / IMP
LMIA Processing
~3 months
LMIA Fee
$1,000 CAD
Global Talent
2-week processing
Employer Requirements & Process
Determine the correct program: TFWP (LMIA needed) or IMP (LMIA-exempt, e.g., CUSMA, Intra-Company)
Advertise the position to Canadian citizens and permanent residents for at least 4 weeks (TFWP)
Submit an LMIA application to Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) — required for TFWP
Pay the LMIA processing fee ($1,000 CAD per position) and the employer compliance fee ($230 CAD)
Ensure wages meet or exceed the prevailing wage for the occupation in the province of work
Provide a workplace that meets provincial health, safety, and employment standards
Maintain compliance — workers must be covered by WSIB and provincial labour laws
Submit an Offer of Employment (LMIA-exempt streams) via the Employer Portal for IMP workers
Keep records of all recruitment efforts and compliance documents for 6 years after the LMIA expires
The Global Talent Stream offers expedited processing (2 weeks) for eligible tech occupations and high-skilled talent. Employers must commit to a Labour Market Benefits Plan.