September 12, 2025
Hiring Foreign Workers in Canada? Don’t Miss the New LMIA Advertising Rules
New LMIA Advertising Rules: Employers Must Use “Direct Apply” on Canada’s Job Bank
The Government of Canada has introduced new advertising rules for Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) applications, changing how employers must recruit workers under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP).
Effective immediately, employers hiring through LMIA-based work permits must enable the “Direct Apply” feature on the official Job Bank website. This rule is designed to ensure transparency in recruitment and prioritize Canadian citizens and permanent residents before hiring foreign workers.
What Does the New LMIA Rule Mean for Employers?
Under the new regulation, all LMIA job postings must:
- Have the Direct Apply feature enabled on the Job Bank.
- Accept and review all applications submitted through Direct Apply.
- Continue to advertise the job for at least four consecutive weeks.
- Post in at least two additional recruitment channels (e.g., LinkedIn, company career page, or other job boards).
Employers who fail to comply risk having their LMIA applications rejected, as not meeting recruitment requirements is considered non-compliance.
⚠️ Important: Direct Apply is now mandatory even for existing Job Bank postings, which means employers need to update older ads to meet the new standard.
Why the Change?
The Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) plays a critical role in filling labor shortages across Canada, especially in agriculture, caregiving, and manufacturing. However, critics have raised concerns that some employers misuse the program to bypass hiring Canadians or permanent residents.
The Direct Apply requirement ensures that:
- Canadian job seekers have a fair opportunity to apply.
- Employers cannot ignore local applicants.
- The LMIA process remains transparent and accountable.
It also aligns with the government’s broader effort to reduce Canada’s reliance on temporary foreign workers while addressing concerns around affordability, housing, and labor market fairness.
Impact on Employers
Employers now face stricter compliance standards. Non-compliance could result in:
- Failed LMIA applications due to incomplete recruitment efforts.
- Restrictions on Job Bank postings if Canadian applicants are ignored.
- Delays in hiring foreign workers due to re-submissions.
This means employers must carefully document their recruitment process and ensure they genuinely consider Canadian applicants before moving forward with an LMIA.
Impact on Job Seekers
For Canadian citizens and permanent residents, the Direct Apply feature provides a faster, simpler application process. Candidates can:
- Apply directly on the Job Bank without creating multiple accounts.
- Upload and send resumes instantly with one click.
- Be assured that employers are required to review their applications.
This change enhances transparency and ensures Canadian workers get priority consideration.
LMIA Advertising Exemptions
Not all LMIA-based jobs are subject to these advertising rules. Exemptions include:
- Academic positions (visiting professors, post-doctoral fellows, guest lecturers).
- Certain entertainment industry jobs.
- Camp counsellors.
- In-Home Caregivers.
Employers hiring for these positions may bypass the advertising requirement.
How MyWorld Immigration Can Help Employers
Navigating LMIA rules can be complex, especially with frequent policy changes. At MyWorld Immigration, we assist employers with:
- LMIA application preparation and compliance checks.
- Job Bank postings and ensuring Direct Apply is enabled correctly.
- Advertising strategies to meet federal requirements.
- End-to-end support under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program.
By working with our experienced consultants, you can avoid costly mistakes and ensure your LMIA application is approved on time.
Contact MyWorld Immigration Today
Whether you’re an employer hiring through the TFWP or a worker looking for LMIA opportunities, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
WhatsApp: +1-672-399-0000
Website: www.myworldimmigration.com
Email: info@myworldimmigration.com
Instagram: @myworldimmigration