How long does it take for Service Canada to process an LMIA?
LMIA processing times are set by Service Canada and fluctuate based on application volumes, the stream being used, and the completeness of the application. Because this is a federal process, the same timelines apply regardless of which province the employer is in.
Service Canada publishes current estimated processing times by stream on its website. Historically, standard LMIA processing has taken several weeks to a few months, but exact timelines vary and can change.
There is a Global Talent Stream (GTS) within the LMIA framework that offers expedited processing for certain high-skilled technology positions and other qualifying roles through the Employer-Specific Work Permit. When eligible, this stream aims to process applications within a significantly shorter window, but eligibility requirements are strict.
Employers should also factor in the mandatory advertising period required before they can even submit the LMIA application — this period is additional to whatever processing time Service Canada takes after receiving the application.
Given that the total time from beginning to recruit to receiving a positive LMIA can span many months, employers planning to hire foreign workers should start the process early. Add to this the time for the worker to obtain the actual work permit from IRCC.
Key takeaways
- Service Canada publishes current LMIA processing times by stream — check before planning.
- Standard processing can take several weeks to months; the Global Talent Stream is faster for eligible roles.
- The mandatory recruitment/advertising period comes before the LMIA is even submitted.
- Plan the total hiring timeline carefully — the end-to-end process can be lengthy.