Employers
Access global talent — compliantly.
Hiring a foreign worker in Canada usually means one of two routes: the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (LMIA-based) or the International Mobility Program (LMIA-exempt). We design and prepare both, end to end.
Who this is for
A quick way to see whether this category fits your situation.
- Canadian employers filling positions they can't fill locally
- Tech companies needing fast access to global specialists (GTS)
- Owner-operators acquiring a Canadian business
- Companies transferring executives or specialists from a foreign affiliate
- Employers supporting key employees through PR via Express Entry/PNP
Programs & pathways
Refreshed against the latest IRCC guidance. We'll match the right pathway to your goals and timeline.
Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)
An ESDC assessment confirming the hire will have a positive or neutral effect on the Canadian labour market.
- High-wage and low-wage streams (based on provincial median wage)
- Mandatory recruitment, advertising and transition plans
- Wage offered must meet the prevailing wage for the role and location
- Stricter rules introduced in 2024–2025 limiting low-wage LMIAs in higher-unemployment regions and capping foreign-worker percentages
Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
The umbrella program for LMIA-based work permits, including agricultural, in-home caregivers, and skilled streams.
International Mobility Program (IMP) — LMIA-exempt
Work permits issued under bilateral agreements or where the hire offers a broader Canadian benefit.
- Intra-company transferees (executives, managers, specialized knowledge)
- CUSMA / CETA / CPTPP professionals and traders/investors
- Significant benefit (e.g., owner-operator under select streams)
- Spouses/partners of skilled workers and international students
Global Talent Stream (GTS)
Fast-tracked LMIA for tech and other in-demand occupations on the Global Talent Occupations List, with 2-week service standards and a Labour Market Benefits Plan.
Recognized Employer Pilot (REP)
For repeat, compliant employers — multi-year LMIAs (up to 36 months) and simplified renewals for select occupations.
How we work
Role & stream review
We confirm NOC code, prevailing wage and the right stream (LMIA, IMP, GTS).
Recruitment & file
We run compliant recruitment (where required) and draft the LMIA / offer of employment.
Submission
We file with ESDC or IRCC and respond to officer questions.
Work permit & compliance
Once approved, we coordinate the worker's permit and your ongoing compliance obligations.
Frequently asked
How long does an LMIA take?+
Standard processing varies by stream, but high-wage and low-wage LMIAs typically take several months. GTS is a 10-business-day service standard. We'll confirm the current timeline for your stream.
Can a worker we hire become a permanent resident?+
Yes — many become eligible for Express Entry (CEC) after a year of Canadian work, or through a PNP employer-driven stream. We can plan PR pathways from day one.
What's changed recently?+
Since 2024, IRCC and ESDC have tightened low-wage LMIAs in regions with 6%+ unemployment, capped the share of low-wage TFWs at most workplaces, and changed PGWP eligibility for some study programs. We'll factor current rules into your strategy.
Ready to take the next step?
Book a one-on-one consultation. We'll review your situation and map out the strongest pathway for you.
Source: IRCC and Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). Rules change frequently — always confirm current requirements.