If you’re a foreign worker looking to start a career in Canada, one of the most effective pathways is by applying to LMIA-approved companies. These are Canadian employers authorized to hire foreign workers through a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
A positive LMIA confirms that no Canadian citizen or permanent resident is available to fill a specific job, and that hiring a foreign worker will not negatively impact the local labor market.
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Canada’s Immigration Targets:
Canada is one of the world’s most immigrant-friendly countries. In recent years, it welcomed:
- 431,645 new permanent residents in 2022
- Aiming for 465,000 in 2023
- 485,000 in 2024
- 500,000 in 2025
(Source: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada – IRCC)
These ambitious immigration targets create more opportunities for foreign nationals to work and settle in Canada.
What is LMIA?
The Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a document issued by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) that allows a Canadian employer to hire a foreign worker. A positive LMIA shows that:
- There is a need for a foreign worker to fill the job.
- No Canadian citizen or permanent resident is available to do the job.
Once the employer has a positive LMIA, the foreign worker can apply for a Canadian work permit.
Companies in Canada with LMIA Approved for Foreigners 2025:
Here is a list of companies in Canada known to have received positive LMIA approvals and have hired foreign workers:
1. Air Canada
Canada’s largest airline and a founding member of Star Alliance, with international operations and a Skytrax Four-Star rating.
2. Alberta Health Services
Provides healthcare services and manages public health policies and funding across Alberta.
3. Apple Inc.
With retail operations across Canada since 2005, Apple is a top tech employer with several locations.
4. Walmart Canada
One of Canada’s largest employers, operating stores and distribution centers nationwide since 1994.
5. Microsoft Canada
Offers jobs in software, AI, cloud computing, and customer support through nine regional offices.
6. National Bank of Canada
One of Canada’s top six banks, headquartered in Quebec, with services across North America and Europe.
7. Rogers Communications Inc.
Major Canadian media and telecom company offering jobs in tech, sales, and customer service.
8. Royal Bank of Canada (RBC)
A global financial services firm offering jobs in banking, finance, and investment.
9. Scotiabank
Canada’s most international bank with a strong presence in Latin America, the Caribbean, Asia, and Europe.
10. Bank of Montreal (BMO)
Provides personal and commercial banking services in Canada and internationally.
11. Google Canada
Part of Alphabet Inc., Google Canada operates in AI, software development, and digital services.
12. Bell Canada
Canada’s largest telecom company offering roles in broadband, wireless, and digital media services.
13. IBM Canada
A leading provider of IT solutions including cloud computing, consulting, and hardware/software services.
14. Deloitte Canada
Offers services in consulting, audit, tax, and financial advisory to businesses and government agencies.
High-Demand LMIA Jobs in Canada:
LMIA-approved jobs are commonly available in:
- Agriculture (farmworkers, fruit pickers)
- Caregiving (nannies, elder care)
- Food services (cooks, kitchen staff)
- Construction & trades
- Hospitality & cleaning services
- Health care (nurses, personal support workers)
- Information technology (developers, system admins)
- Engineering
- Teaching
- Truck driving and logistics
LMIA Jobs for Foreign Workers Outside Canada:
If you’re not in Canada, you can still apply for LMIA-based jobs through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). Once you receive a valid job offer and the employer secures a positive LMIA, you can apply for a Canadian work permit.
Visit Job Bank Canada and filter jobs with the label “International Candidates Can Apply” or “LMIA approved.”
How to Find LMIA-Approved Jobs in Canada?
Here are the best strategies:
1. Job Bank Canada
The official government job portal often lists verified LMIA-approved job postings.
2. Online Job Portals
Use Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor to find postings by LMIA-approved employers.
3. Company Websites
Visit the careers section of large Canadian employers. Many indicate whether they support LMIA sponsorship.
4. Government LMIA Employer List
Refer to the ESDC-approved LMIA employer list, published quarterly.
View ESDC LMIA Employer List
5. Professional Networking
Join LinkedIn groups, forums, and industry events to network with professionals in your field who can guide or refer you.
Benefits:
- Legal Work Authorization
A positive LMIA allows you to apply for a valid Canadian work permit. - Path to Permanent Residency (PR)
Work experience in Canada can boost your eligibility for PR under Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs. - Professional Growth
Gain Canadian work experience, improve your resume, and grow your career. - Integration Support
Many LMIA-approved employers help foreign workers settle into life in Canada. - Job Security
These employers have demonstrated a genuine need for foreign talent. - Competitive Compensation
Companies often offer attractive benefits like health insurance, paid leave, and retirement plans.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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What is LMIA in Canada?
A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a document showing that a foreign worker is needed to fill a job. Employers need this to hire international workers.
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How do I apply for LMIA jobs?
Use official job platforms, research companies with a history of hiring international workers, and check the LMIA employer list by ESDC.
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Which companies are LMIA-approved?
Any company can apply for LMIA approval, but the government publishes a list of those with positive LMIA decisions.
