September 15, 2025
New Canada LMIA Rules in Effect: What Employers and Workers Must Know
Canada has introduced new Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) regulations as of September 2025. These updates are designed to increase transparency in the hiring process, crack down on fraudulent LMIA job postings, and ensure that Canadian citizens and permanent residents are given priority before employers turn to hiring foreign workers under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP).
The most notable change? Employers must now use the Job Bank Direct Apply feature when advertising LMIA-required positions.
What Has Changed Under the New LMIA Rules?
The key update is the mandatory use of Direct Apply on Job Bank. This tool ensures that Canadian applicants can apply directly through the government’s official job board, preventing employers from ignoring or bypassing domestic applications.
Employers are now required to:
- ✅ Enable Direct Apply for all LMIA job postings.
- ✅ Review resumes submitted through Job Bank within 21 days.
- ✅ Provide at least one additional application method (such as email, LinkedIn, or company website).
- ✅ Keep detailed recruitment records for six years, including applications reviewed and reasons for rejection.
Employers who fail to comply may see their postings removed from Job Bank, and their LMIA applications could be denied.
Why These New LMIA Rules Matter
For years, Canada has struggled with fraudulent LMIA job postings and recruiters who exploited loopholes in the system. Some employers posted ads only as a formality while never intending to consider Canadian applicants.
By enforcing Direct Apply and stricter review timelines, the government aims to:
- Put Canadian workers first in the hiring process.
- Eliminate fraudulent LMIA practices.
- Protect temporary foreign workers (TFWs) from fake job offers.
- Promote a transparent, fair, and ethical hiring system.
This is also part of Canada’s broader effort to regulate temporary immigration levels while supporting a sustainable and inclusive labour market.
Impact on Employers
For Canadian employers, the new LMIA rules bring both opportunities and challenges.
Opportunities:
- Easier access to Canadian job seekers.
- Centralized resume submissions through Job Bank.
- Stronger credibility when applying for LMIA approval.
Challenges:
- The 21-day application review requirement adds administrative responsibility.
- Potential audits or LMIA refusals for non-compliance.
- Increased HR workload for smaller businesses in sectors like construction, hospitality, and agriculture.
Employers must adapt quickly, as compliance is now non-negotiable.
Impact on Job Seekers and Foreign Workers
For Canadian job seekers, this update is a significant win:
- Direct Apply makes applications simple and accessible.
- Employers are obligated to review resumes submitted through Job Bank.
- More transparency means fairer access to opportunities.
For temporary foreign workers, these changes mean that LMIAs are only approved when truly necessary—when no Canadians are available. This makes LMIA-based work permits and eventual pathways to Permanent Residency (PR) more credible and secure.
Agriculture LMIA Rules Returning in 2026
A special note for the agriculture sector: Starting January 1, 2026, the temporary suspension of advertising requirements for farming and livestock jobs will end.
From this date, agricultural employers will once again need to:
- Post job ads on Job Bank with Direct Apply enabled.
- Meet full LMIA recruitment requirements.
This ensures Canadian citizens and residents, including underrepresented groups such as youth, Indigenous workers, and people with disabilities, are prioritized for agricultural jobs.
How MyWorld Immigration Can Help
At MyWorld Immigration, we understand that LMIA rules are complex and constantly evolving. Whether you are an employer seeking to hire through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) or a worker exploring opportunities in Canada, our experts provide trusted, end-to-end guidance.
Our services include:
- LMIA Applications & Compliance: Ensuring employers meet all advertising and recruitment requirements.
- Work Permits & PR Pathways: Helping foreign workers transition from LMIA-based jobs to Permanent Residency.
- Express Entry & PNP Programs: Maximizing your chances of securing PR through federal and provincial streams.
- Spousal & Family Sponsorship: Assisting families in reuniting and building their future in Canada.
Final Thoughts
The new LMIA rules mark a turning point in Canada’s approach to fair recruitment. By prioritizing transparency and compliance, the government is ensuring a balanced system that protects both Canadian workers and foreign employees.
If you’re an employer navigating LMIA compliance or a worker seeking LMIA-based opportunities, the right guidance can make all the difference.
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Website: www.myworldimmigration.com
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