Canada Unveils LMIA-Exempt Work Permits for Top Tech Talent

Canada has unveiled a new LMIA-exempt work permit, targeting select tech companies through its Innovation Stream under the International Mobility Program (IMP). This move is part of Canada’s broader effort to position itself as a global leader in technology.

The Innovation Stream

The Innovation Stream is one of four major pillars within the Tech Talent Strategy, initiated in 2023 to attract skilled professionals. This new stream aims to drive Canada’s growth in the tech sector by easing the pathway for talented foreign workers to join Canadian companies.

Global Hypergrowth Project

The Innovation Stream allows skilled foreign workers to apply for employer-specific work permits without the need for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).

Eligibility for the New Work Permit

Skilled foreign workers who receive job offers from companies participating in the Global Hypergrowth Project (GHP) are now eligible for an employer-specific, LMIA-exempt work permit. These companies, selected by the government, are recognized as leaders in the tech industry with strong growth potential.

What Is an LMIA?

A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a document required for most employer-specific work permits in Canada. Issued by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), the LMIA assesses the impact of hiring a foreign worker on the local labor market. The LMIA must show a positive or neutral impact for an employer-specific work permit.

How to Qualify for the Innovation Stream

To apply for this new work permit, applicants must need a job offer from a participating company in a high-skilled occupation under the NOC TEER categories.

• Secure a job offer from a company involved in the Global Hypergrowth Project
• Have a position in a high-skilled occupation, categorized under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 levels
• Meet the educational and experience requirements outlined for the job in the NOC

The stream is open to eligible workers inside and outside Canada. Those applying for positions in NOC TEER 0 or 1 categories may also benefit from expedited processing.

Employer Responsibilities Before Application

Employers must submit a job offer, pay the compliance fee, and provide an employment offer number for the application.

• Submit a job offer through Canada’s employer portal
• Pay a compliance fee of CAD 230
• Provide the applicant with an employment offer number

Companies Leading the Global Hypergrowth Project

Eight selected companies, recognized as industry leaders, are driving Canada’s tech growth and offering LMIA-exempt work permits.

• Ada Support Inc.
• AlayaCare
• CellCarta
• Clarius Mobile Health
• Clio
• Duchesnay Pharmaceutical Group (DPG)
• Lightspeed Commerce
• Vive Crop Protection

These firms have been chosen for their innovative contributions and potential for growth, offering a unique opportunity for tech professionals to work in Canada’s booming tech industry.

LIMA Exempt Occupations

Certain international agreements allow Canadian employers to hire Temporary Foreign Workers without requiring a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). These exemptions apply to specific occupations such as;

1. Traders
2. Investors
3. Professionals
4. Intra-Company Transfers (ICTs)

This streamlined process simplifies hiring and accelerates the employment of foreign workers from participating countries.

Conclusion

Canada’s new LMIA-exempt work permit for tech professionals represents an exciting opportunity for workers and employers. By simplifying the hiring process, Canada aims to attract top-tier talent to fuel its tech industry, solidifying its status as a global innovation hub.