Lmia-based Work Permits for Employees
LMIA-Based Work Permits - How Foreign Workers Can Work in Canada
A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is often required before a foreign worker can obtain a Canadian employer-specific work permit. Once an employer receives a positive LMIA, the worker can apply for a work permit linked to that specific employer, position, and location.
At Ann Arbour Consultants Inc., we specialize in preparing strong, accurate LMIA-based work permit applications for foreign workers both inside and outside Canada.
What Is an LMIA-Based Work Permit?
An LMIA-based work permit is a closed work permit tied to:
- One authorized employer
- One approved position
- One location
- A fixed duration of employment
You cannot work for another employer unless a new LMIA and new work permit are approved.
Worker Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for an LMIA-based work permit, a worker must:
- Have a valid job offer supported by a positive LMIA
- Meet the NOC skill and experience requirements
- Provide documentation showing experience, training, and qualifications
- Be admissible to Canada (no criminality, no medical inadmissibility where applicable)
- Submit biometrics
- Undergo a medical exam (if required)
- Demonstrate ability to perform job duties
We help workers gather proper proof — without overwhelming IRCC with unnecessary documents.
Required Documents for LMIA-Based Work Permits
Worker must provide:
- Passport
- LMIA letter and Annex A
- Job offer / employment contract
- Proof of previous work experience (This is very important for your application).
- Educational credentials
- Police clearance certificates
- Medical exams (if required)
- Photos and biometrics
- Completed IRCC forms
Employer must provide:
- Copy of LMIA and employment contract
- Corporate and payroll documentation (if requested)
- Job description and duties
We ensure all documents are consistent and accurate to prevent refusal.
Responsibilities & Compliance for Workers
Foreign workers must follow important conditions while working in Canada.
- Work only for the employer listed on the permit
Changing employers requires a new LMIA and work permit. - Maintain legal status
Apply for extensions well before expiry. - Respect Canadian laws
This includes tax laws, employment standards, and workplace safety rules. - Keep proof of employment
Workers must keep pay stubs, contracts, and tax documents. - Avoid unauthorized work
Working outside the conditions of your permit can result in:
- Status loss
- Removal orders
- Future immigration complications
We advise workers on maintaining status and avoiding compliance errors.
LMIA-Based Work Permits Inside vs. Outside Canada
Workers Inside Canada may be able to:
- Extend a work permit
- Change employers (with new LMIA)
- Restore status if lost (under strict timelines)
Workers Outside Canada must:
- Secure LMIA approval first
- Apply for work permit from their home country or visa office
- Attend biometrics and medical exams
- Wait for approval before travelling
We assist with both scenarios.
How Ann Arbour Consultants Inc. Supports Workers
- Full review of all worker documents
- Preparation of IRCC forms
- Strong Letter of Explanation
- Guidance for biometrics & medical exams
- Representation throughout processing
- Post-approval instructions for travel & arrival
- Compliance guidance for maintaining status
- Provide draft job reference letters as a guideline for your previous employers
- Introduce to Canadian employers who can facilitate your entry to Canada on an LMIA-based work permit
Our team ensures applications are complete, credible, and aligned with IRCC requirements.
Apply for Your LMIA-Based Work Permit With Confidence
Whether you are inside or outside Canada, our team helps you secure a legally compliant LMIA-based work permit so you can work safely and successfully.