Canada’s LMIA Work Permit Wage Hike Starts June 27

By Visa Jobs CanadaJune 28, 2025Work Visas & LMIA NewsCanada LMIA, immigration, visa sponsorship, wage increase, work permit

As of June 27, 2025, Canada has introduced significant changes to its Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) program, which is essential for employers seeking to hire foreign workers. An LMIA assesses how hiring a foreign employee impacts local job markets and is crucial for many work permit applications. This update raises minimum wage thresholds for the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), impacting both employers and job seekers.

What Are the New LMIA Wage Thresholds?

The latest LMIA wage changes create new standards for high-wage and low-wage jobs, varying by province. For example, the high-wage stream requires salaries at or above provincial levels, while the low-wage stream covers jobs below those thresholds. With this adjustment, new LMIA applications will see increased wage requirements, reflecting the rising cost of living. Here’s a snapshot of how wages will change:

Province/Territory	New LMIA Rate	Previous Rate
British Columbia	$36.60	$34.62
Ontario	$36.00	$34.07
Alberta	$36.00	$35.40
Quebec	$34.62	$32.96

These changes aim to ensure that temporary foreign workers (TFWs) receive fair pay while helping to meet labour demands in sectors experiencing shortages, such as technology and healthcare.

Implications for Employers

For employers, this wage increase means adjusting existing wage structures to remain competitive. Companies may need to rethink their budgeting strategies, particularly in industries heavily reliant on TFWs, like agriculture and hospitality. Additionally, roles may shift between low-wage and high-wage streams, which entails different LMIA requirements, such as developing training plans for local workers.

Benefits for Temporary Foreign Workers

For job seekers and TFWs, the new wage thresholds present several advantages:

Higher Earnings: These changes improve financial stability for those living in Canada.
Enhanced Immigration Opportunities: Higher wages can boost eligibility for programs like Express Entry, which is a key pathway to permanent residency (PR).
Improved Quality of Life: Competitive compensation plays a vital role in supporting the integration of new workers into Canadian society.

How to Navigate the Changes

If you’re an employer, consider reviewing your wage offerings to align with the new standards and consult immigration experts for compliance. On the other hand, if you’re a job seeker, focusing on high-demand sectors can help you find better-paying opportunities and leverage your earnings for immigration applications.

The new LMIA wage thresholds underscore Canada’s commitment to a fair labour market, balancing the needs of both employers and workers. Staying informed about these changes is essential for success in the Canadian job market.