When Canadian families apply for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to hire a caregiver, one of the biggest questions is: How long am I committed once I receive approval?
Here’s a clear breakdown of LMIA duration and what it means for employers in 2025.
1. LMIA Validity Period
- A positive LMIA is usually valid for up to 6 months.
- During this time, the caregiver must use it to apply for a work permit.
- If the caregiver does not apply in time, the LMIA expires and the employer must reapply.
2. Duration of the Work Permit
Once approved, the LMIA allows the caregiver to apply for a work permit:
- Most caregiver work permits are issued for up to 2 years.
- The duration is based on the job contract submitted with the LMIA.
- Employers are committed to following the contract terms for the length of the permit.
3. Ending Employment Early
Employers still have flexibility:
- They may end the relationship if it is not working out, but must comply with provincial labour standards (notice or termination pay).
- The caregiver may look for a new employer with a valid LMIA.
- Employers are not locked into a lifetime arrangement.
4. Renewing or Replacing a Caregiver
- If the family still needs help after the caregiver’s permit ends, they may apply for a new LMIA to hire the same or a different caregiver.
- Employers should plan ahead, as LMIA and work permit processing can take several months.
5. Compliance Responsibilities
Even if the caregiver leaves early, employers may still be inspected by Service Canada to confirm they:
- Paid the promised wages.
- Honoured contract terms while the caregiver was employed.
- Did not recover LMIA or recruitment fees from the worker.
Key Takeaways
- A positive LMIA is valid for 6 months to support a caregiver’s work permit application.
- Work permits are typically issued for up to 2 years, tied to the job contract.
- Employers must honour the contract but may end employment if needed, following labour laws.
- A new LMIA is required if the family still needs caregiver support after the original term.
👉 Families should view LMIA commitments as serious but time-limited, giving them both stability and flexibility.