{"id":2788,"date":"2025-05-06T19:54:05","date_gmt":"2025-05-06T19:54:05","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/?p=2788"},"modified":"2025-10-06T19:55:21","modified_gmt":"2025-10-06T19:55:21","slug":"what-to-know-about-recent-changes-to-the-lmia-work-permit-process-in-canada","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/what-to-know-about-recent-changes-to-the-lmia-work-permit-process-in-canada\/","title":{"rendered":"What to Know About Recent Changes to the LMIA Work Permit Process in Canada"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1865\" height=\"1198\" src=\"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/15\/2025\/05\/May-2.jpg\" alt=\"A man on a dairy farm with a rake over his shoulder looks out of a barn with cows beside him and another man working behind him to rake hay. \" class=\"wp-image-2793\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/15\/2025\/05\/May-2.jpg 1865w, https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/15\/2025\/05\/May-2-1280x822.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/15\/2025\/05\/May-2-980x630.jpg 980w, https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/15\/2025\/05\/May-2-480x308.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) and (max-width: 1280px) 1280px, (min-width: 1281px) 1865px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>For those looking to work in Canada, understanding the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) process is key, especially with several new changes now affecting the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). These updates could impact how and when foreign workers are able to apply for jobs in Canada and who qualifies for certain types of permits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Is an LMIA Work Permit?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>An LMIA work permit is a type of Canadian work permit that requires the employer to first obtain approval from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). This approval, called a Labour Market Impact Assessment, shows that no Canadian citizen or permanent resident is available to fill the job. Once an employer has a positive LMIA, a foreign worker can apply for a work permit tied to that job.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Recent LMIA-Related Changes<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The Canadian government has made a number of significant updates to how LMIA work permits are processed:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Shortened LMIA validity:<\/strong>\u00a0Previously, a positive LMIA was valid for 12 months. That window has now been cut in half, and applicants must apply for a work permit within six months of receiving an LMIA.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Halt on low-wage applications in high unemployment areas:<\/strong>\u00a0Until at least July 10, 2025, LMIA applications for low-wage positions are not being processed in census metropolitan areas (CMAs) with unemployment rates of 6% or higher. This policy is intended to prioritize jobs for local workers in regions with fewer employment opportunities.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Reduced duration for low-wage employment:<\/strong>\u00a0The maximum period of employment for workers under the low-wage stream has been reduced to one year, down from previous durations that were often longer.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Other Policy Changes to Know<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>In addition to the LMIA-specific changes, the government has introduced new rules affecting other types of work permits:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Restrictions on open work permits for family members: Spouses or common-law partners of LMIA-based work permit holders will only be eligible for open work permits in select circumstances.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>No more work permits from inside Canada for visitors: Foreign nationals who enter Canada as visitors can no longer apply for a work permit while inside the country. They must apply from outside Canada if they wish to work.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Get Expert Help Navigating Canada\u2019s Changing Work Permit Rules<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>These policy changes can make the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/canadian-immigration\/work-and-study-permits\/labour-market-impact-assessment-lmia\/\">LMIA work permit<\/a>&nbsp;process more complex and time-sensitive. At Pilkington Immigration, we can help determine whether you\u2019re eligible for a work permit under the new rules and assist with every step of the application. Contact us today to get trusted guidance tailored to your situation.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>For those looking to work in Canada, understanding the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) process is key, especially with several new changes now affecting the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). These updates could impact how and when foreign workers are able to apply for jobs in Canada and who qualifies for certain types of permits. [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":17,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"off","_et_pb_old_content":"<!-- wp:image {\"lightbox\":{\"enabled\":false},\"id\":2706,\"sizeSlug\":\"full\",\"linkDestination\":\"custom\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img src=\"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/15\/2025\/02\/feb2.jpg\" alt=\"Three Canadian Flags flying outside a tall office building.\" class=\"wp-image-2706\"\/><\/figure>\n<!-- \/wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Registration Requirement for Foreign Nationals \u2013 Effective April 11, 2025<\/strong><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Starting April 11, 2025, all foreign nationals who meet certain criteria must register with the U.S. government. This would apply to many of the snowbird travelers to the U.S. who typically spend time in southern United States in the winter months. Failure to comply may result in fines and\/or imprisonment. If registration is required, individuals must carry proof of registration at all times and present it to law enforcement if requested. Below provides general information to help determine if registration is necessary and how to register. General information can be found on the USCIS website:&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.uscis.gov\/alienregistration\">https:\/\/www.uscis.gov\/alienregistration<\/a>. For specific questions, we recommend consulting an attorney, we are happy to help!<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>You may wish to book a consultation with our Pilkington Immigration expert by clicking below.<\/strong><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/meetings.hubspot.com\/margaret-wilson\/paid-zoom-meeting-margaret-wilson\"><strong>Book a Consultation<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Am I Required to Register?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Q: Will you be in the U.S. for 30 days or more?<\/strong><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Yes:<\/strong>\u00a0You must register. Continue to the next question.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>No:<\/strong>\u00a0You do not need to register. Consult an attorney if you have further questions.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Q: Are you 14 years of age or older?<\/strong><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Yes:<\/strong>\u00a0You must register.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>No:<\/strong>\u00a0Your parent or legal guardian is responsible for registering you.<br>You must re-register within 30 days of turning 14.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How Do I Register?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Q: Do you have any of the following valid documents after entering the U.S.?<\/strong><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"ordered\":true,\"start\":1} -->\n<ol start=\"1\" class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>I-94 (<a href=\"https:\/\/i94.cbp.dhs.gov\/home\">https:\/\/i94.cbp.dhs.gov\/home<\/a>)<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Border Crossing Card<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Notice to Appear in Immigration Court (NTA)<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>I-551 Stamp or Green Card (LPR card)<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>I-765 EAD<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Admission or parole stamp in your passport<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ol>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Yes:<\/strong>\u00a0You are already registered.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>No:<\/strong>\u00a0You must complete Form G-325R via your\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/my.uscis.gov\/\">https:\/\/my.uscis.gov\/<\/a>\u00a0account.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Biometrics Appointment<\/strong><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>If you register by submitting Form G-325R, you will be scheduled for a Biometrics Appointment. You are not considered fully registered until you complete this appointment. Watch for your Biometrics Appointment Notice, which should be sent to your&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/my.uscis.gov\/\">https:\/\/my.uscis.gov\/<\/a>&nbsp;account.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Canadian citizens entering as visitors under the visa exemption rule do not need to attend a biometrics appointment. Registration will be considered complete once Form G-325R is submitted.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Individuals who entered the U.S. under the Jay Treaty are exempt from the registration requirement.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What Is Considered Proof of Registration?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Proof of registration may include, but is not limited to, the following:<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"ordered\":true,\"start\":1} -->\n<ol start=\"1\" class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>I-94<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Border Crossing Card<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Notice to Appear in Immigration Court<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>I-551 Stamp or Green Card<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>I-765 EAD<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Admission or parole stamp<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Certificate of Registration or Alien Registration Receipt Card (available through your myUSCIS account after completing Form G-325R)<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ol>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>If you are over 18, you must carry proof of registration at all times. You should consult an attorney to ensure that you are properly registered and have the correct proof of registration.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Penalties for Non-Compliance<\/strong><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Failure to carry proof of registration:<\/strong>\u00a0A misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $5,000, up to 30 days in prison, or both.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Failure to register:<\/strong>\u00a0A fine of up to $5,000, up to 6 months in prison, or both.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Fraudulent statements on a registration:<\/strong>\u00a0Criminal prosecution and possible deportation upon conviction.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Parents:<\/strong>\u00a0Responsible for registering children under 14 and may face penalties for non-compliance.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>The registration requirement and proof of registration may vary depending on individual circumstances. It is important for snowbirds and visitors alike to properly understand the requirements of this new policy. If your questions are not addressed in this guide, consult an immigration attorney. While we assist clients with the registration process, please note that USCIS does not allow attorneys to access Form G-325R.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Are you a snowbird looking for assistance with this new registration process?&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pilkington Immigration<\/a>&nbsp;can ease the stress of registration. Schedule a consult today to discuss our fees and services!<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/meetings.hubspot.com\/margaret-wilson\/paid-zoom-meeting-margaret-wilson\"><strong>Book a Consultation<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->","_et_gb_content_width":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[13],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2788","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-news-events"],"aioseo_notices":[],"featured_image_src":null,"featured_image_src_square":null,"author_info":{"display_name":"Staff","author_link":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/author\/brian\/"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2788","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/17"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2788"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2788\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2795,"href":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2788\/revisions\/2795"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2788"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2788"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2788"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}