How Long Does It Take to Get a Canadian Work Permit After LMIA Is Approved?

Hiring foreign talent in Canada involves several steps but once your Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is approved, the countdown begins toward obtaining a Canadian work permit.

So, how long does it actually take after the LMIA approval?

Let’s break down the current 2026 timelines, key steps, real-world examples, and tips to avoid delays.

What Is the Work Permit Processing Time After LMIA, and Why Does It Matter?

A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a document that Canadian employers must obtain before hiring most foreign workers. It proves that no Canadian worker is available to fill the position. Only after an LMIA is approved can the foreign worker apply for a work permit.

What Happens After LMIA Approval?

When Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) issues a positive LMIA, it confirms that hiring a foreign worker will not negatively impact the Canadian labour market.

Once this is approved, the next step is for the foreign worker to apply for a work permit.

Step-by-Step: From LMIA Approval to Work Permit Issuance

Employer Gets LMIA Approval

• • • You receive the positive LMIA and job offer letter.
      
    • These documents are sent to the foreign worker.
      

Work Permit Application Submitted

• • • Worker applies online or at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) in their country.
      
    • Required documents include:

       

      • Copy of LMIA
        
      • Job offer letter
        
      • Passport
        
      • Biometrics (if not already given)
        
      • Police certificates, medical exams (if applicable)
        

Biometrics & Medical Exams (if required)

• • • Biometrics are usually scheduled within a week or two.
      
    • Medical exams are required for certain occupations or longer stays.
      

Application Review by IRCC

• • • IRCC processes the application and makes a decision.
      
    • If approved, the worker receives a Port of Entry (POE) Letter of Introduction.
      

Travel to Canada & Border Approval

• • • Worker presents POE letter at the border or airport.
      
    • A physical Work Permit is issued at entry.

Average LMIA Processing Times in 2026

Before a work permit processing time after lmia application can even begin, the LMIA itself must be approved. As of mid-2026, Service Canada reports the following average processing times by stream:

Tip: The Global Talent Stream is much faster than other categories. If your position qualifies, consider this route.

How Long Is the Work Permit Processing Time After LMIA Approval?

Work Permit Processing Time After LMIA begins only after you have received your positive LMIA and submitted a complete application to IRCC.

Typical Work Permit Timelines for 2026

• • If applying from outside Canada:
    The average work permit processing time after lmia approval is about 21 weeks (around 5 months), but this can vary depending on the applicant’s country of residence and the volume of applications.
    Example: For applicants from India and many other countries, processing can take 21 to 24 weeks in 2026.

     

  • If applying from inside Canada:
    Online work permit applications typically take about 128–135 days (around 4–4.5 months), depending on the workload and completeness of the application.

     

  • Paper-based applications:
    These may be processed faster in as little as 17 days in some cases, but online filing is now standard for most applicants.

Express Processing

Some applicants may be able to pay extra fees for express options, reducing processing to just days or weeks in special circumstances.

What Factors Affect Work Permit Processing Times?

• • Type of stream
    Specialized programs like the Global Talent Stream have faster Work Permit Processing Time After LMIA

     

  • Application completeness
    Incomplete or incorrect forms can cause long delays.

     

  • Biometrics and medical exams
    Delays in scheduling or submitting required information may slow down your application.

     

  • Country of residence
    IRCC’s regional processing times differ by visa office.

     

  • Seasonal or regional workloads
    Busy periods (like summer) can increase wait times.

     

Tip: Submitting a complete application and responding quickly to any IRCC requests can help avoid unnecessary delays.

What Happens After Work Permit Approval?

If you are outside Canada, you will receive a port of entry letter of introduction, bring this with you when entering Canada. Your actual work permit will be issued by the border officer on arrival.

LMIA to Work Permit: Estimated Timeline Examples

Here’s an overview of the total time you may need, from start to finish:

1. Employer submits LMIA application

    

   • Example: Global Talent Stream takes around  7 business days
     
   • High-wage stream takes around  41 business days

      

2. LMIA approved, worker applies for work permit

    

   • Example: From India takes around 21–24 weeks for Work Permit Processing Time After LMIA.

      

3. Total time from starting LMIA to receiving work permit

    

   • Fastest streams: 2–3 months (Global Talent Stream + quick work permit review)
     
   • Standard: 5–8 months is realistic for most high-wage/low-wage roles

      

Common Questions

Can I start working once my LMIA is approved?
No. You must wait until you receive your Work Permit Processing Time After LMIA from IRCC. The approved LMIA only allows you to apply for a permit but it does not authorize employment.

How can I get my work permit faster?
Choose the Global Talent Stream if eligible, ensure all documents are complete, submit biometrics promptly, and check for any expedited Work Permit Processing time After LMIA options.

Will my family’s permits be processed at the same time?
You can submit applications for accompanying family members together, but processing times may still vary, depending on their application type and the visa office.

Final Tips

• • Track current processing times: IRCC and Service Canada update their timelines regularly. Always check before applying.
    
  • Prepare your documents carefully to avoid delays.
    
  • Respond to any IRCC requests as soon as possible as delays in providing biometrics or additional information can extend your wait.
    

Still have questions or need support preparing your LMIA or work permit application?

Reach out to Can X Global for personalized, expert guidance and a smooth pathway to working in Canada.