How LMIA-Based Jobs Open Doors to PR
October 17, 2025
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A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a document issued by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). It proves that hiring a foreign worker will not negatively affect Canada’s labour market and that no Canadian worker is available for the job.
If you secure an LMIA-approved job offer, your employer has demonstrated the genuine need to hire you, which makes your position highly valued in immigration processes.
LMIA and Work Permits
An LMIA is often the first step to obtaining a Canadian work permit. When an employer receives a positive LMIA, you can apply for a closed work permit tied to that employer. This allows you to legally live and work in Canada while gaining Canadian work experience.
LMIA and Express Entry
Express Entry, Canada’s most popular immigration pathway, uses the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) to score candidates. An LMIA-backed job offer can add up to 50 or 200 CRS points, depending on the position’s skill level.
For many candidates, this boost makes the difference between waiting in the pool and receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.
LMIA and the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
Canada’s provinces run their own immigration streams to meet local labour market needs. Having an LMIA-supported job offer increases your chances of being nominated by a province, which adds 600 CRS points to your Express Entry profile. This virtually guarantees an ITA for permanent residency.
LMIA and Canadian Work Experience
Many PR programs, including the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), prioritize candidates with Canadian work experience. An LMIA job allows you to gain this experience legally while proving your adaptability to the Canadian labour market.
Benefits of LMIA-Based Jobs for PR
- Higher CRS points – Boost your Express Entry profile.
- Provincial nomination opportunities – Strengthen your PNP chances.
- Pathway to PR – Secure legal work status and gain Canadian experience.
- Employer support – Employers who apply for LMIAs often continue to support PR applications.
Challenges With LMIA Jobs
- Employer restrictions: Most LMIA-based permits are tied to one employer.
- Employer costs: Some employers may hesitate due to compliance fees.
- Processing time: LMIA applications can take weeks or months.
Still, the long-term benefits for PR often outweigh these challenges.
LMIA-based jobs are more than just employment opportunities - they are stepping stones to Canadian permanent residency. By providing CRS points, provincial nomination opportunities, and Canadian work experience, an LMIA job can be one of the most reliable ways to secure your future in Canada.
FAQs
How Many CRS Points Does an LMIA Job Offer Give in Express Entry?
An LMIA-backed job offer gives either 50 or 200 CRS points depending on the skill level of the position.
Do I Need an LMIA to Apply for Permanent Residency in Canada?
No, it is not mandatory. However, having an LMIA-approved job offer significantly increases your chances of getting permanent residency.
Can an LMIA Job Help me Qualify for Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)?
Yes. Many provinces prioritize candidates with LMIA-supported job offers, which can lead to a provincial nomination worth 600 CRS points.