How Long Does It Take to Get an LMIA-Based Work Permit in Canada?

If you're planning to work in Canada through an LMIA based work permit in Whitby or any other city, one of the most common questions is: How long does the process take? The timeline can vary depending on several factors, including the employer's LMIA approval, the work permit application process, and government processing times. Let’s break it down.

Step 1: LMIA Processing Time (4 to 12 Weeks)

Before a foreign worker can apply for a work permit, the Canadian employer must apply for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). This is to prove that no qualified Canadian workers are available for the job.

📌 Processing time for LMIA applications:
✔ High-wage and low-wage positions: 8 to 12 weeks
✔ Global Talent Stream (for tech jobs): 2 weeks
✔ Agricultural stream: 6 to 8 weeks

Factors that affect LMIA processing time:

• Demand for the job position

• Completeness of the employer's application

• Service Canada’s workload

Step 2: Work Permit Processing Time (2 to 16 Weeks)

Once the LMIA is approved, the foreign worker can apply for a work permit. The processing time depends on:
✔ Applicant’s country of residence
✔ Method of application (online vs. paper-based)
✔ Volume of applications at Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)

📌 General work permit processing times:

• Inside Canada: 2 to 6 weeks

• Outside Canada (varies by country): 4 to 16 weeks

Total Estimated Time: 6 to 28 Weeks

🔹 Fastest case scenario (Global Talent Stream + Canadian processing): 6 weeks
🔹 Average case scenario (Regular LMIA + standard work permit): 12 to 16 weeks
🔹 Longest case scenario (Delays, complex cases, backlogs): 20+ weeks

Tips to Speed Up Your LMIA-Based Work Permit Application

✅ Ensure the employer submits a complete LMIA application
✅ Apply for jobs in the Global Talent Stream for faster LMIA approval
✅ Submit your work permit application online for quicker processing
✅ Check your country’s specific processing times on the IRCC website

If you're applying for an LMIA-based work permit in Whitby, it’s best to plan ahead and allow enough time for the entire process. Have you applied for an LMIA work permit? How long did it take for you? Share your experience below! 👇🚀