Frequently Asked Questions

An LMIA is the document that a Canadian employer might need to obtain before hiring temporary foreign workers. 

Most employees do require one, as an LMIA confirms that there is a need to hire a temporary foreign worker and that there are no Canadians that can do the job. There are some exemptions to needing an LMIA such as a unique work situation, performing arts or someone in the International Experience Canada program. For more information on whether you need an LMIA, please visit the Government of Canada website or contact us.

The employer that is looking to hire needs to submit an application to Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). The employer must also provide a detailed list of the number of Canadians that applied for the position, how many were interviewed and why they did not get the job. The ESDC will assess a number of areas such as whether there are Canadians that can do the job, working conditions and whether a foreign worker will have a positive, negative, or neutral impact on the Canadian labour market.

The average processing time ranges from 14-90 business days, depending on what type and where the application is submitted.

Currently the government fee for an LMIA is $1000 CDN per worker.

Typically, a foreign worker requires a work permit, but there are some exceptions.

This is dependent on many different factors, but usually a work permit is valid for 1-2 years, with the possibility of extensions.

LMIAs are specific to the employer, position and location for which they were granted. If an employee wishes to change jobs or move, a new employer will likely need an LMIA and the foreign worker will need a new work permit before they can commence employment.

If the position pays equal to or more than the provincial average, it is considered high wage; anything below the average, is considered low wage.

If a worker is considered to be high-wage, the employer must submit a transition plan. This plan is meant to show that the employer intends to reduce reliance on foreign workers, and plans to hire more Canadians. If a worker is low-wage, there is no need for a transition plan. However, there is a cap on how many low-wage temporary foreign workers an employer can hire. If an employer has more than 10 employees, the cap for temporary foreign workers is 10 to 20% of the workforce. Caps vary across Canada.

Unless the occupation requires another language, only English and/or French can be listed as required languages.

To speak with one of our experienced immigration consultants, contact us.

Yes! There are some conditions that you must adhere to, for example, you must demonstrate to Canadian immigration that your business will provide economic benefits to Canada. You have a few options such as buying/investing in a business in key economic sectors. Let us help you with any inquiries you may have.

There are several steps that must be taken to move a foreign business to Canada. These include checking if your business is eligible to expand to Canada, applying for a work permit and applying for permanent residency. Reach out to our experienced team for more.

You may apply for permanent residency once your business is established in Canada. We can help you with each step of this journey. Set up a consultation today. 

If you have an innovative business that can create jobs for Canadians, you may be able to apply for a start up visa.

The process takes anywhere from 12-24 months. This process can be confusing, but we’re here to help you through it all. Contact us for a consultation and let us set up a unique strategy for your business’s needs. 

Yes, there is a processing fee and a biometrics fee. Processing fees start at $2,075. Please feel free to set up a consultation for more specific details. 

Typically, the principal applicant, partner and dependents under the age of 22 are included in the start up visa approval.

Both practice immigration law. The most significant difference is that an immigration lawyer can represent clients before the federal court of appeal. An immigration consultant aids in the immigration process, can take care of confusing documentation for clients and can file appeals in court if an application is denied.

Deadlines matter! We work to meet or bead deadlines so you can achieve your immigration related objectives.

The answer is simple - we want people and businesses to succeed. We will be with you every step of the way through all of the complicated paperwork, documentation and processes. We use an approach of assessing your individual needs, creating a personalized strategy for those needs and working closely with you through the entire process. Let our team help you grow your business today.