Work in Canada with a Job Offer That Doesn’t Need an LMIA
By Canada Visa & PR Immigration Pathway Guides, , , ,

Some Canadian jobs allow you to get a work permit without needing a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). These are called LMIA-exempt jobs. If you qualify, this can be a faster and simpler way to get a Canadian work permit.

🧾 What Type of Visa is the No LMIA Work Permit?

This is a temporary work permit based on a job offer that is exempt from needing an LMIA. These exemptions exist for reasons like international agreements, company transfers, or public interest programs.

🏠 What You Get With an LMIA-Exempt Work Permit

  • You can work legally in Canada for a specific employer
  • You can live and work in Canada for 1 to 2 years
  • You may be able to renew your permit if your job continues
  • Your job must still meet Canadian rules and pay fair wages

⏱️ LMIA-Exempt Work Permit Processing Time

  • Work permit applications are usually processed in 2 weeks to several months
  • Most permits are valid for 1 to 2 years
  • Processing time depends on your country and type of exemption

💰 LMIA-Exempt Work Permit Costs and Fees

  • Work permit application: CAD $155
  • Biometrics fee: CAD $85
  • Employer compliance fee: CAD $230 (paid by the Canadian employer)
  • Other costs may include documents, medical exams, and translations

✅ Who is Eligible for an LMIA-Exempt Work Permit?

You may qualify if your job falls into one of the LMIA exemption categories. These include:

  • Free trade agreements like USMCA, CETA, or CPTPP
  • Intra-company transfers (your company has a Canadian office)
  • Jobs that offer significant benefit to Canada
  • Academic or research roles
  • Jobs for spouses of certain work or study permit holders
  • Jobs covered by international or humanitarian agreements

You must still:

  • Have a valid job offer from a Canadian employer
  • Submit an employer compliance form through the online portal
  • Apply for a work permit with the correct documents

📈 How Competitive is the LMIA-Exempt Process?

The biggest challenge is finding a Canadian job that qualifies for an exemption. Not all employers understand these rules, so it helps if your employer has hired internationally before or if you’re applying through a well-known exemption like an intra-company transfer.

👤 Who Should Apply for an LMIA-Exempt Work Permit?

This option works well for:

  • People working for a company that has a Canadian branch
  • Citizens of countries with trade agreements with Canada
  • Researchers, academics, or professionals moving under international deals
  • Spouses of skilled workers or students in Canada

⚠️ Who Might Need to Consider Other Options?

This may not be right for you if:

  • You do not have a job offer yet
  • Your job does not qualify for an exemption
  • Your employer is unsure about how to complete the online steps
  • You want to work for more than one employer or change jobs easily

📌 Next Steps for the LMIA-Exempt Work Permit

  • Check if your job falls under one of the LMIA exemption categories
  • Talk to your Canadian employer about the compliance fee and online portal
  • Prepare your documents and apply for your work permit
  • If you are not sure about this option, you can explore other visa programs too

💬 Got Questions About the LMIA-Exempt Work Permit?

If you’re unsure whether your job offer qualifies or want help figuring out your options, ask in the comments below. We’re here to help guide you through the process.