Quebec has announced an extension on the suspension of Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs) for certain low-wage jobs. This means that employers in Montreal and Laval will not be able to apply for these work permits until November 30, 2025.
What is an LMIA?
An LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) is a document that Canadian employers must obtain before hiring a foreign worker. It shows that no Canadian worker is available for the job, allowing the employer to hire from abroad. The suspension applies only to low-wage LMIA applications.
Key Updates
- The LMIA suspension for low-wage jobs in Montreal, which began in September 2024, has now been extended until November 30, 2025.
- Laval is now also included in this suspension, starting from March 3, 2025.
- This means that employers in Montreal and Laval cannot apply for LMIAs for low-wage jobs below a set wage threshold.
Who is Affected?
If you are a foreign worker or an employer looking to apply for an LMIA, this suspension affects jobs that:
- Pay less than $27.47 CAD per hour (Quebec’s low-wage threshold).
- Are located in Montreal or Laval.
If an LMIA application falls under these criteria, it will not be processed until the suspension is lifted.
Are There Any Exceptions?
Yes! The suspension does not apply to:
- Employers in specific industries such as:
- Agriculture
- Construction
- Food Processing
- Education
- Health and Social Services
- LMIA applications that were approved before September 3, 2024.
- LMIA applications submitted before September 3, 2024.
Why is Quebec Making These Changes?
Quebec is trying to reduce the number of temporary foreign workers to balance the job market and prioritize local workers. They are also introducing a cap on international student applications to manage the number of temporary residents.
Federal Government’s LMIA Restrictions
This is not just a Quebec decision. The Canadian federal government has also restricted low-wage LMIA applications in cities with high unemployment rates (above 6%). These areas are updated every three months, with the next update on April 4, 2025.
Exceptions are made for essential industries like:
- Agriculture
- Food processing
- Fish processing
- Construction
- Healthcare
1. Can I still apply for an LMIA in Quebec?
- Yes, but only if your job is not low-wage or if it falls under the exempt industries like healthcare, agriculture, or construction.
2. What if I already have an LMIA?
- If your LMIA was approved before September 3, 2024, or submitted before that date, your application is not affected.
3. What should employers do now?
- Employers looking to hire foreign workers in affected areas should either offer a higher wage or hire in exempt industries.
4. Will the LMIA suspension end after November 30, 2025?
- There’s no guarantee. The government may extend or modify the suspension depending on economic and labor market conditions.
5. What happens if I apply for a restricted LMIA?
- If you submit an LMIA for a low-wage job in Montreal or Laval, it will not be processed and will likely be rejected.
Final Thoughts
If you’re planning to work in Quebec as a foreign worker, it’s important to stay updated on these changes. Consider looking at alternative immigration pathways, such as:
- Express Entry (for skilled workers)
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
- Study permits leading to work opportunities
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Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only and not legal advice. Always consult experts like us or the official IRCC website for up-to-date details.