A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a document that an employer in Canada may need to get before hiring a foreign worker.
A positive LMIA will show that there is a need for a foreign worker to fill the job. It will also show that no Canadian worker or permanent resident is available to do the job. A positive LMIA is sometimes called a confirmation letter.
Once an employer gets the LMIA, the worker can apply for a work permit.
If the employer needs an LMIA, they must apply for one.
To apply for a work permit, the worker must provide the following:
A copy of Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from ESDC (provided by the employer), a job offer letter signed by the employee and a copy of an employment contract signed by both employer and employee. Proof of eligibility for the job (for example: a valid Canadian provincial or territorial trade certificate, educational requirements or past work experience outlined in a resume)
Expressed goal is to avoid misunderstandings between employer/employee during interviews by providing copies beforehand so there aren’t any surprises leftovers later down the road.