Low-Wage LMIA Processing Restrictions Across Canada
The Canadian government recently updated the regions where employers can no longer obtain or extend work permits under the low-wage stream of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). This is important for international job seekers, especially those considering moving to Canada, as it directly impacts your employment options and visa pathways.
Which Regions Are Affected?
As of July 11, 2025, the list of ineligible areas has increased to a total of 26 Census Metropolitan Areas (CMAs), up from 24. This means employers in these regions cannot hire foreign workers through the low-wage stream until the next update scheduled for October 10, 2025. The decision is based on unemployment rates; CMAs with rates at 6% or higher are no longer eligible for low-wage LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) applications.
What Should Job Seekers Know?
If you’re seeking a job in Canada, particularly in impacted regions, it’s crucial to be aware of these changes. For example, if you’re looking for work in cities like Toronto or Vancouver, you may encounter restrictions. Employers in these areas cannot renew or apply for your work permit under the low-wage stream without a valid LMIA.
What Are Your Options?
If your job offer falls under the low-wage stream, you still have a few options:
- Talk to your employer about possibly increasing the salary to meet the high-wage stream threshold.
- Check if your employer is willing to wait and see if unemployment rates change in the coming months.
- Focus your job search on regions where low-wage LMIA applications are still processed.
- Look for occupations exempt from this rule, which may include jobs in healthcare, agriculture, or specific construction roles.
Those already on a low-wage TFWP may face challenges if they lose their job or can’t extend their work permit. In such cases, having applied for an extension before your current permit expires will allow you to stay and work while awaiting a decision from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This provision is part of what’s called maintained status.
How to Stay Informed
It’s essential to stay updated on your rights and options as a foreign worker in Canada. Employers and job seekers should always check the unemployment rates in their specific CMAs before submitting LMIA applications. This can help avoid unnecessary delays and pitfalls.
If you’re exploring job opportunities from overseas, remember that every listing on our website, VisaJobsCanada.com, includes specific information about visa support for international applicants. This can simplify your job search and ensure you’re pursuing opportunities that align with your immigration goals.
What do you think?
Have a question about this topic or your own plans to move to Canada? Scroll down and leave a comment. We’d love to hear from you.
