LMIA is a document that an employer in Canada may need to get before hiring a foreign worker. A positive LMIA will show that there is a need for a foreign worker to fill a specific job that the employer is willing to recruit.
A positive LMIA ensures the TFW can apply for their work permit/permanent residency to IRCC
If a Canadian employer would like to hire a temporary foreign worker (TFW) to work in Canada, they may submit a LMIA application to Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC)/Service Canada.
The requirements to obtain a positive LMIA are rigorous and the employer must be prepared to comply with all conditions imposed by ESDC/Service Canada.
Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), International Experience Class (IEC) Working Holiday, and Open Work Permit holders do not hold employer specific work permits
Employers of LMIA exempt foreign workers such as NAFTA Professionals, Intra-Company Transferees and International Experience Class (IEC) Young Professionals, can choose to file LMIA application in order to assist their employees