Applying for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to hire a caregiver in Canada comes with clear employer responsibilities. However, misconceptions often create confusion about what families must do — and what they are not obligated to do.
Here’s a breakdown of responsibilities vs. myths every employer should know in 2025.
Responsibility 1: Pay the Required Wages
- Employers must pay at least the provincial/territorial median wage for the caregiver’s NOC.
- Caregivers must also receive overtime, vacation pay, and public holiday pay where required.
Myth: Families can negotiate wages below the median if both parties agree.
👉 False. LMIA will be refused if wages are below the required standard.
Responsibility 2: Cover LMIA and Recruitment Costs
- The $1,000 LMIA fee must be paid by the employer.
- Families cannot charge or deduct this fee from the caregiver’s wages.
Myth: Caregivers can “reimburse” the LMIA fee once they start working.
👉 False. It’s illegal to recover LMIA or recruitment costs from the caregiver.
Responsibility 3: Honour the Employment Contract
- The written contract must clearly outline duties, wages, hours, and benefits.
- Employers must provide the job as described in the LMIA.
Myth: Families can change duties freely after the caregiver arrives.
👉 False. Significant job changes require a new LMIA.
Responsibility 4: Respect Employment Standards
- Employers may end the relationship, but only in line with provincial labour laws (termination notice or pay in lieu).
Myth: Families cannot dismiss a caregiver after LMIA approval.
👉 False. Employers can, but must follow employment law.
Responsibility 5: Maintain Compliance Records
- Employers must keep payroll, recruitment, and contract records for potential Service Canada inspections.
Myth: Inspections only happen if the caregiver complains.
👉 False. Random or targeted inspections are common.
Key Takeaways
- Employers must meet obligations on wages, fees, contracts, and compliance.
- Myths — like being tied to a caregiver forever or recovering fees — often mislead families.
- Understanding the difference between responsibilities vs. myths makes the LMIA process smoother and reduces risks of refusal or penalties.
👉 If you’re ready to hire, post your caregiver job today with confidence in your rights and responsibilities.