Most Canadian work permits require an LMIA, or labor market impact assessment. Some employers skip the LMIA document acquisition process because it might be time-consuming. Thankfully, there are some Canadian work licenses that are not subject to the LMIA.
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Employers must often get an LMIA before they can employ a foreign worker in Canada. A positive LMIA, also known as a confirmation letter, demonstrates that the employer attempted and failed to fill the position with a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, necessitating the hiring of a foreign individual.
The majority of Canadian work permits require foreign applicants to submit a copy of their positive LMIA along with their LMIA number. There are a few exceptions, though.
There are essentially three types of work permits in Canada:-
- Inactive Work Permits
- Active Work Permits
- Closed Work Permits Exempt From LMIA
The majority of work permits in Canada are closed work permits, which necessitate a favorable LMIA. For a specific job and for a certain employer that is listed on the LMIA, a closed work permit is given to a foreign worker.
On the other hand, foreign workers with open work permits are permitted to work in any capacity, for any business, anywhere in Canada. Open work permits do not need an LMIA because they are not connected to a specific industry or business. Additionally, a job offer is not required in order to apply for an open work permit.
Positions exempt from the LMIA
Closed LMIA-exempt work permits allow a foreign national to work for a specified employer and in a certain capacity, but they are exempt from the requirement for a positive LMIA. Usually, whether or not a closed work permit is exempt from the LMIA depends on the nature of the job.
Significant advantage
If your company can demonstrate that you will provide a significant social, cultural, or economic value to Canada, you may qualify for this exemption. For instance:-
1) Technical personnel, performers and artists, independent engineers, etc.
2) Transferees inside the same organization who have specific knowledge and will boost the Canadian economy with their specialist knowledge and experience.
3) Personnel employed by Mobilite francophone.
Mutual employment
This exception gives foreign workers the chance to work in Canada in some industries where Canadians can find employment elsewhere. For instance:
1) Working with Canadian teams are professional athletes and coaches.
2) Teachers, visitors, and students taking part in exchange programmes.
Entrepreneurs who work for themselves
Foreign nationals who intend to work for themselves or operate their own business while in Canada must demonstrate that doing so will considerably benefit Canadian citizens or permanent residents in order to be granted an LMIA exemption.