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| Foreign workers can apply for a Canadian work permit after receiving a positive LMIA from their employer. |
Canada continues to rely on skilled foreign workers to fill labor shortages across a wide range of industries. For many employers, obtaining a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a major milestone in the hiring process.
If you're still exploring international employment opportunities, our guide to visa sponsorship jobs in 2026–2027 explains which countries are actively recruiting foreign workers and the sectors offering the most opportunities.
But once the LMIA is approved, the next question is usually straightforward:
How long will it take to receive a Canadian work permit?
The answer depends on several factors, including where the applicant is applying from, the type of job, and current immigration processing volumes. Below is a practical breakdown of what happens after LMIA approval and how long the process typically takes in 2025.
Understanding the LMIA
A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a document issued by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). It confirms that a Canadian employer has made reasonable efforts to hire locally and that employing a foreign worker will not negatively affect Canada's labor market.
In most cases, a foreign worker cannot apply for a work permit until the employer receives a positive LMIA.
What Happens After an LMIA Is Approved?
Once ESDC issues a positive LMIA, the employer provides the worker with the necessary documents to begin the work permit application process.
Many entry-level and intermediate positions, including warehouse and logistics roles, often rely on the LMIA process when hiring international workers. See our guide to Canada warehouse jobs with visa sponsorship for real-world examples
The journey generally follows these steps:
1. Employer Receives Positive LMIA
The employer receives:
- A positive LMIA decision
- A job offer letter
- Supporting employment documentation
These documents are then shared with the foreign worker.
2. Work Permit Application Is Submitted
The worker applies for a Canadian work permit either online or through a Visa Application Centre (VAC), depending on their location.
Typical documents required include:
- Copy of the approved LMIA
- Job offer letter
- Valid passport
- Biometrics confirmation (if required)
- Police clearance certificates (if requested)
- Medical examination results (if applicable)
Understanding Canada's immigration procedures can make the process easier. If you are also considering studying before entering the workforce, review our Canada Student Visa Guide for additional immigration insights.
3. Biometrics and Medical Examination
Many applicants are required to provide biometrics such as fingerprints and a photograph.
Depending on the occupation and intended length of stay, a medical examination may also be necessary.
Scheduling and completing these requirements promptly can help prevent delays later in the process.
4. IRCC Reviews the Application
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) reviews the application and supporting documents.
If approved, the applicant receives a Port of Entry (POE) Letter of Introduction, which authorizes them to travel to Canada and obtain their work permit.
5. Arrival in Canada
Upon arrival at a Canadian airport or land border, the worker presents the POE letter and supporting documents to a border services officer.
If everything is in order, the officer issues the physical work permit.
Average LMIA Processing Times in 2025
Before a work permit application can begin, the employer must first obtain LMIA approval. Processing times vary significantly depending on the stream under which the application is submitted.
While waiting for a decision, it's a good idea to prepare financially. Our guide on how much money you need to move abroad breaks down realistic relocation costs for Canada and other popular destinations.
Estimated LMIA Processing Times
|
LMIA Stream |
Average Processing Time |
|
Global Talent Stream |
7–10 business days |
|
Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program |
About 8 business days |
|
Agricultural Stream |
Around 14 business days |
|
High-Wage Stream |
41–50 business days |
|
Low-Wage Stream |
41–50 business days |
|
Permanent Residence Stream |
235–240 business days |
Tip: If the position qualifies under the Global Talent Stream, employers may benefit from significantly faster processing.
How Long Does a Work Permit Take After LMIA Approval?
Work permit processing begins only after the applicant submits a complete application to IRCC.
Applicants Outside Canada
For workers applying from abroad, the average processing time is approximately 21 weeks, or about five months.
However, processing times vary by country and visa office. In many cases, applicants from countries such as India may experience processing times of 21 to 24 weeks.
Applicants Inside Canada
Applicants already in Canada generally wait about 128 to 135 days, which is roughly four to four and a half months.
Paper Applications
Although online applications are now the standard option, some paper-based applications may be processed more quickly under specific circumstances.
Is Faster Processing Available?
Certain immigration programs and exceptional circumstances may qualify for expedited processing.
While not all applicants are eligible, individuals working in high-demand occupations or under specialized programs may benefit from shorter wait times.
Factors That Affect Work Permit Processing Times
No two applications are exactly alike. Several factors can influence how quickly a decision is made.
Applicants seeking faster pathways should focus on employers with established international recruitment programs. Explore our list of companies sponsoring foreign workers to identify organizations familiar with immigration processes.
Type of Immigration Stream
Programs such as the Global Talent Stream are designed to move more quickly than standard streams.
Application Accuracy
Missing documents, incomplete forms, or errors can result in requests for additional information and lengthy delays.
Biometrics and Medical Exams
Processing may be extended if biometrics appointments or medical examinations are not completed promptly.
Country of Residence
Different visa offices handle varying application volumes, which can affect overall processing times.
Seasonal Demand
During peak immigration periods, processing backlogs can increase and waiting times may become longer.
Helpful Tip: Submitting a complete and accurate application from the beginning remains one of the best ways to avoid unnecessary delays.
What Happens After Your Work Permit Is Approved?
Applicants outside Canada do not immediately receive the actual work permit.
Instead, they receive a Port of Entry Letter of Introduction. This document must be presented upon arrival in Canada.
A border officer will then issue the official work permit at the point of entry.
Sample Timeline: From LMIA Application to Work Permit
The total time required depends on both LMIA and work permit processing.
Fast-Track Example
- Global Talent Stream LMIA: 7–10 business days
- Work permit processing: Several weeks to a few months
- Total estimated timeline: Approximately 2–3 months
Standard Processing Example
- High-Wage or Low-Wage LMIA: 41–50 business days
- Work permit processing: 21–24 weeks
- Total estimated timeline: Approximately 5–8 months
For most foreign workers, planning for a timeline of five to eight months is realistic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I start working as soon as the LMIA is approved?
No.
A positive LMIA does not grant permission to work in Canada. You must first obtain an approved work permit before beginning employment.
How can I speed up the process?
You may be able to reduce delays by:
- Applying through the Global Talent Stream if eligible
- Submitting complete and accurate documents
- Completing biometrics quickly
- Responding promptly to any IRCC requests
- Monitoring current processing times before applying
Targeting employers that regularly sponsor international workers can improve your chances. Browse our latest visa sponsorship jobs abroad guide for verified opportunities
Will my spouse or family members be processed at the same time?
Family members can often submit their applications together with the principal applicant. However, processing times may differ depending on the type of application and the visa office responsible for reviewing it.
You May Also Like:
- Canada Warehouse Jobs 2026 With Visa Sponsorship – LMIA Jobs for Foreign Workers
- Canada Student Visa Guide (2026) – Requirements, Fees & Application Process
- Visa Sponsorship Jobs 2026–2027: Countries Hiring Foreign Workers
Final Thoughts
Receiving a positive LMIA is an important step toward working in Canada, but it is only one part of the overall process.
In 2025, most foreign workers should expect to wait several months after LMIA approval before receiving a work permit. While timelines vary, careful preparation, complete documentation, and prompt responses to immigration requests can help keep your application moving smoothly.
Before submitting your application, always check the latest processing times published by IRCC and Service Canada, as timelines can change throughout the year.
With proper planning and realistic expectations, you'll be in a much stronger position to navigate the Canadian work permit process successfully.
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