Canada’s LMIA processing times have increased for most streams of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), according to the latest monthly update from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). The July 2026 figures show increases ranging from one to nine business days in several streams, while the permanent resident stream recorded a significant decrease.
For employers and foreign workers planning a Canada work permit, these changes make it increasingly important to plan the LMIA process carefully and prepare applications accurately.
Latest LMIA Processing Times in Canada
ESDC publishes LMIA processing times each month. These figures represent the average number of business days required to assess a complete application and issue a decision.
The latest figures reported for July 2026 are:
| LMIA Stream | July 2026 | Change from June |
|---|---|---|
| Global Talent Stream | 10 days | +1 day |
| Agricultural Stream | 23 days | +1 day |
| Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program | 8 days | -1 day |
| High-Wage Stream | 88 days | +9 days |
| Low-Wage Stream | 73 days | +2 days |
| Permanent Resident Stream | 86 days | -13 days |
The High-Wage LMIA stream experienced the largest increase, reaching 88 business days. By comparison, the Permanent Resident Stream improved by 13 days, although its processing time remains lengthy.
It is important to remember that these are averages, not guaranteed timelines. Processing can vary depending on application volume, completeness and the specific LMIA stream.
LMIA Processing Time Does Not Include Recruitment
One important point for employers is that the published LMIA processing time does not include the mandatory recruitment and advertising period that must be completed before an application is submitted.
Depending on the stream, employers may need to advertise the position for a specified period before applying. The federal government recommends planning ahead because this recruitment period can add significant time to the overall process.
For some low-wage positions, the federal government has also strengthened recruitment requirements. Employers must demonstrate that they have made appropriate efforts to recruit Canadians and permanent residents before turning to the Temporary Foreign Worker Program.
How Does an LMIA Help a Foreign Worker?
An LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) is generally required when a Canadian employer wants to hire a temporary foreign worker through an LMIA-based stream.
The assessment helps determine whether hiring a foreign worker is justified based on Canada’s labour market needs and whether the employer has made reasonable efforts to hire Canadians or permanent residents.
After receiving a positive LMIA, the employer can provide the required documentation to the foreign worker. The worker can then use the LMIA documentation when applying for an employer-specific work permit through IRCC.
However, an LMIA approval does not automatically guarantee a work permit. The foreign worker must still meet the applicable IRCC requirements.
Canada Is Reducing Temporary Foreign Worker Arrivals
The latest immigration plan shows that Canada is continuing to reduce the number of new temporary residents while maintaining a focus on economic immigration.
For 2026, the federal government has set a target of 60,000 new arrivals under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program, compared with 82,000 in 2025. The government has also set an overall objective of reducing the temporary resident population to below 5% of Canada’s population by the end of 2027.
This means employers and foreign workers should not assume that an LMIA-supported job alone guarantees a long-term immigration outcome.
Can an LMIA Lead to Permanent Residency?
For some foreign workers, Canadian work experience can become part of a longer-term permanent residency in Canada strategy. Depending on their circumstances, possible pathways may include Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) and other economic immigration programs.
Canada’s 2026–2028 Immigration Levels Plan also includes measures aimed at transitioning some temporary workers already in Canada to permanent residence.
Because eligibility varies significantly by occupation, work experience, education, language ability and other factors, applicants should evaluate their potential PR pathway before making major immigration decisions.
How ICC Immigration Can Help
At ICC Immigration, we help clients understand their available immigration options and develop a strategy based on their individual circumstances.
Our services include:
- Permanent Residency Applications: Assistance with Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) and other PR pathways.
- Work Permits and Study Permits: Guidance for individuals seeking to work or study in Canada and explore future immigration opportunities.
- Family Sponsorship: Support with eligible family reunification and permanent residence applications.
- Professional Immigration Guidance: Help understanding changing Canadian immigration rules and preparing applications according to current requirements.
Whether you are already in Canada or planning your immigration journey from abroad, having a clear strategy can help you make informed decisions.
Do not rely solely on an LMIA job offer when planning your future in Canada. Understanding how your work permit, Canadian experience and potential PR options fit together can be an important part of building a long-term immigration plan.
For personalized guidance, ICC Immigration can help you assess your options and navigate the Canadian immigration process with greater clarity and confidence.