An LMIA is most often required to hire a foreign worker in Canada. Whether you are overseas, already in Canada and need to extend your status, or require 50 points to increase your score in Express Entry, finding an LMIA can be a challenge. It tends to be easiest for open work permit holders who are already working in Canada. It is slightly more challenging for an applicant in Canada without work status, and is most challenging for overseas applicants who do not have the opportunity to meet the employer face to face. Be cautious of recruiters from overseas and do your own research.

In this video, I outline 3 resources you can take advantage of to simplify your LMIA job search and help you understand the basics.

Beware of recruiters, consultants, agents, lawyers, or any immigration company that charges a foreign worker for an LMIA. As an LMIA constitutes a job offer, it is illegal almost anywhere in the world for an employer, or any middle man (consultant, agent, lawyer) to charge you for job offer. In Canada this is considered fraud and an offence punishable by jail time.

If your employer or consultant asks you for money, and it's for the LMIA and on the basis of the job offer, you may be eligible for a Vulnerable Open Work Permit if you are in Canada. Only pay for reasonable work permit processing charges and be sure to have a clear breakdown of what you are paying for. Be wary of anyone who is both representing the employer and you, as this is a conflict of interest. You do not need to use the same consultant or lawyer that has been paid by the employer to recruit you for a genuine job for your work permit application as well. Remember, the LMIA is property of the employer, not the consultant and be sure to request a clear breakdown of charges.

If you are recruited for an LMIA job and require work permit processing, my colleague will handle your work permit application for a flat rate of $2500 for an LMIA based work permit submission.