If you’re an employer in Canada planning to hire foreign workers, Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) timelines can either speed up or delay your hiring strategy. As of May 2025, Service Canada has updated its LMIA processing times, and the numbers reveal both fast lanes and serious bottlenecks.

In this blog, we’ll break down the updated LMIA timelines by stream, explain what affects these processing speeds, and help you better plan your hiring efforts with the latest insights.

Average LMIA Processing Times in May 2025

Service Canada publishes monthly average processing times across different LMIA streams. These times reflect how long it took to process applications that were finalized in the last 30 days. The chart below presents the latest figures:

As seen above, timelines differ greatly depending on the stream. The Global Talent Streamcontinues to be the fastest route, ideal for tech-heavy and high-demand positions. In contrast, the Permanent Resident Stream shows a significantly longer wait time, taking up to 235 business days.

Why Processing Times Vary So Much

Several factors affect LMIA application timelines:

• Volume of Applications: Higher volumes mean longer queues.
• Stream Requirements: Some streams require more rigorous documentation and assessments.
• Application Completeness: Missing documents or unsigned forms can stall the entire process.
• Quebec Applications: For jobs based in Quebec, submissions must meet both federal and provincial standards.

For employers submitting to Quebec’s Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI), the file must be formatted per provincial requirements and submitted simultaneously to both governments.

When Does LMIA Processing Begin?

Service Canada starts processing your LMIA the moment a complete application is submitted via LMIA Online. Your application is only considered complete when:

• All stream-specific documents are submitted.
• The employer has signed all necessary paperwork.
• The processing fee is paid (where applicable).

Note: Incomplete applications are not processed, and the processing fee won’t be charged until the application is considered complete.

When Does Processing End?

Your LMIA application concludes when Service Canada issues a decision letter—either positive or negative. If approved, you must share the positive LMIA decision with your selected foreign workers, allowing them to move ahead with their work permit applications.

Key Tips to Speed Up the LMIA Process

To minimize delays and get quicker decisions, here’s what employers can do:

• Double-check documentation before submission.
• Choose stream-appropriate categories to align with job roles.
• For time-sensitive hires, consider the Global Talent Stream if eligible.
• Keep track of monthly updates to spot seasonal fluctuations.
• Avoid sending incomplete or poorly formatted applications.

LMIA Processing Times in 2025 Demand Smart Planning

With LMIA processing times stretching from just 7 business days to nearly a full year, proper planning is essential. Whether you’re aiming to hire through the Global Talent Stream or the Permanent Resident Stream, being aware of updated timelines and submitting a complete application can save weeks—or even months.

Employers relying on Labour Market Impact Assessment outcomes must now stay informed and flexible to meet their workforce goals on time.

Need help preparing a strong LMIA application? Contact ImmigCanada’s professionals for expert assistance and faster results.

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