Hiring a foreign caregiver in Canada requires an LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) in most cases. While many families understand the process, the costs associated with an LMIA can be confusing. Here’s a clear breakdown of what employers should expect in 2025.
1. LMIA Application Fee
- The standard LMIA processing fee is $1,000 per position.
- This fee is non-refundable, even if the application is refused or withdrawn.
- Employers must pay directly to Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) when submitting the application.
2. Recruitment and Advertising Costs
Employers must advertise the caregiver position before applying for an LMIA. While posting on the Government of Canada Job Bank is free, other methods may involve costs:
- Paid online job boards.
- Local newspapers.
- Community postings.
These advertising expenses vary, but employers should budget at least a few hundred dollars if using paid platforms.
3. Wages and Employment Standards
Although not a direct LMIA fee, employers must commit to paying:
- The provincial/territorial median wage for caregivers.
- Overtime pay (if required by law).
- Vacation pay, holiday pay, and other entitlements under provincial labour standards.
Failing to meet wage requirements can result in an LMIA refusal.
4. Other Possible Costs
- Legal or consultant fees: Employers who hire immigration consultants or lawyers may pay additional professional fees for preparing the LMIA package.
- Record keeping and compliance: Employers may need to keep financial and recruitment records, which can sometimes mean extra administrative costs.
- Work permit application costs: While these are paid by the caregiver (not the employer), some families choose to help cover them.
5. What Employers Cannot Charge Caregivers
It is illegal for employers to recover the $1,000 LMIA fee or recruitment costs from the caregiver. All LMIA-related fees must be paid by the employer.
Key Takeaways
- The main LMIA fee is $1,000 per caregiver position.
- Employers should budget for advertising and recruitment costs.
- Wages and benefits must meet Canadian standards.
- Caregivers cannot be charged for LMIA-related fees.
👉 Planning to hire a caregiver? Post your caregiver job listing today and start the LMIA process the right way.