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LMIA-Based Work Permits Canada (2026) – Temporary Foreign Worker Program
RCIC guidance on LMIA-based work permits under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program: the process, eligibility, and a well-prepared application.
Table of Contents
What is the TFWP Program?
The Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) is the federal program used when an employer needs a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to hire a temporary foreign worker. ESDC/Service Canada assesses the LMIA and the effect of the proposed hire on Canada’s labour market; IRCC separately assesses the worker’s work permit application. A positive LMIA confirms there is a need for a temporary foreign worker and that no Canadians or permanent residents are available to do the job. Employers should first determine whether an LMIA is required and then follow the requirements for the applicable TFWP stream. See the Government of Canada’s LMIA determination guidance.
Which streams fall under the TFWP?
High-Wage and Low-Wage Workers
Foreign Academics
In-Home Caregivers
Global Talent Stream
Foreign Agricultural Workers
What is an LMIA?
A Labour Market Impact Assessment is an assessment by ESDC/Service Canada of the effect that hiring a temporary foreign worker would have on Canada’s labour market. Service Canada issues a positive or negative LMIA decision. A positive LMIA confirms that there is a need for a temporary foreign worker and that no Canadian citizen or permanent resident is available to do the job; a positive LMIA does not itself issue the worker a work permit. The foreign worker must still apply to IRCC and meet the applicable work-permit and admissibility requirements.
What are the steps involved in getting an LMIA?
Step 1: The employer identifies the correct TFWP stream and completes the stream-specific requirements, including recruitment and advertising where required.
Step 2: The employer submits the LMIA application to ESDC/Service Canada. Service Canada issues a positive or negative decision.
Step 3: If the LMIA is positive, the employer provides the required LMIA and employment documents to the worker, who applies to IRCC for the work permit before the LMIA expires.
How does this program differ from the IMP program?
| Selection Criteria | TFWP Program | IMP Program |
| LMIA Required | Yes | No |
| Work Permit Type | Employer-specific work permits | Open or Employer-specific work permits |
| International Treaties | Not based on international treaties | May be based on international agreements or other LMIA-exemption provisions under the IMP |
| Purpose | To fill the labor shortages of Canada | To further Canada’s broad economic and cultural interests |
One long-standing LMIA-based stream is the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program, which brings farm workers from Mexico and participating Caribbean countries.
See all Canadian work permit options in our work permit overview.
