Hiring a foreign caregiver in Canada can be a lifesaver for families who need support with elderly parents or family members with medical needs. But before a foreign caregiver can apply for a work permit, most Canadian employers must first obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
This guide walks you through the step-by-step process to hire a caregiver with an LMIA in 2025.
1. Understand What an LMIA Is
A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a decision issued by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). It confirms whether hiring a foreign worker is necessary because no Canadian citizen or permanent resident is available to fill the job.
- A positive LMIA means the employer can hire the foreign caregiver.
- A negative LMIA means the employer must look for Canadian candidates first.
For most families hiring a caregiver, the LMIA process is required.
2. Check Eligibility to Hire a Caregiver
Before starting, employers must meet specific conditions:
- Be able to demonstrate financial ability to pay the caregiver.
- Offer wages that meet or exceed the provincial/territorial median wage for caregivers.
- Provide a valid written employment contract.
- Ensure the job duties match the caregiver-related occupations under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) (commonly NOC 44101 – Home support workers or Home care workers).
3. Meet Recruitment Requirements
Employers must try to hire Canadians or permanent residents first. This usually means:
- Posting the job on the Government of Canada’s Job Bank.
- Advertising in at least two additional methods (online job boards, local newspapers, etc.).
- Running ads for at least four consecutive weeks in the three months before applying.
The job advertisement must include details like wage, location, duties, and employment terms.
4. Prepare the Employment Contract
An employment contract is mandatory. It should clearly state:
- Job title and main duties.
- Wage and benefits (must meet employment standards).
- Work schedule (hours per week, overtime, rest days).
- Conditions of employment, including accommodations if the caregiver lives in the employer’s home.
5. Submit the LMIA Application
Employers must complete and submit the LMIA application to Service Canada along with:
- The processing fee (CAD $1,000 per position).
- Proof of recruitment efforts.
- The caregiver’s employment contract.
- Financial documents to show ability to pay (e.g., Notice of Assessment, bank statements).
Service Canada officers may contact the employer for additional details.
6. Wait for the LMIA Decision
Processing times vary by region and program. On average, it can take several weeks to a few months. If approved, the employer receives a positive LMIA letter and an Annex with job details.
7. Caregiver Applies for a Work Permit
Once the LMIA is approved, the caregiver can use it to apply for a work permit through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
The caregiver will need:
- The LMIA number and job offer letter.
- Proof of qualifications (education, training, experience).
- Other standard work permit documents (passport, biometrics, medical exam, police checks).
8. Caregiver Arrives and Begins Work
When the caregiver’s work permit is approved, they can travel to Canada and begin working for the employer under the terms of the LMIA and employment contract.
Employers must continue to respect employment standards and immigration rules, as ESDC can inspect employers to ensure compliance.
Key Takeaways
- An LMIA is required for most Canadian families hiring a foreign caregiver.
- Employers must show they tried to hire Canadians first, offer fair wages, and sign a valid contract.
- The LMIA approval allows the caregiver to apply for a Canadian work permit.
👉 If you’re an employer looking to hire a caregiver, posting your job on a reputable job board is often the first step in both recruitment and the LMIA process.
👉 If you’re a caregiver seeking work, look for “LMIA available” jobs to know which employers are ready to support your work permit application.