Canada Expands Low-Wage LMIA Processing to Eight New Regions in 2026
- Kanwarjit Singh Lall
- Jan 9
- 3 min read
Starting January 9, 2026, the Canadian federal government will begin processing low-wage Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs) in eight additional regions. This change opens new opportunities for employers and foreign workers in areas that were previously ineligible for low-wage LMIA processing during the last quarter of 2025.
This expansion includes cities such as Vancouver, Surrey, Burnaby, Richmond, Coquitlam, Langley, Winnipeg, and Kingston, among others. It reflects the government’s ongoing efforts to address labour shortages and support economic growth across the country.
What This Expansion Means for Employers and Workers- Low-Wage LMIA Processing
The Labour Market Impact Assessment is a key step for employers who want to hire foreign workers. It helps ensure that hiring a foreign worker will not negatively affect the Canadian labour market. Low-wage LMIAs apply to jobs that pay less than the provincial or territorial median wage.
By expanding low-wage LMIA processing to eight more regions, the government is making it easier for employers in these areas to fill labour gaps with temporary foreign workers. This is especially important for sectors like hospitality, retail, and agriculture, which often rely on low-wage workers.
Here are the regions where low-wage LMIA processing will start in early 2026, before and current unemployment rate.
Halifax, NS: 6.1 → 5.2
Moncton, NB: 7.3 → 5.5
Saint John, NB: 7.3 → 5.8
Fredericton, NB: 6.7 → 5.2
Montréal, QC: 6.7 → 5.5
Kingston, ON: 6.6 → 5.6
Winnipeg, MB: 7.3 → 5.7
Vancouver (Lower mainland) , BC: 6.8 → 5.9
Why This Change Matters
Many employers in these regions have faced challenges hiring enough workers for low-wage positions. Without access to low-wage LMIA processing, they had limited options to bring in temporary foreign workers. This often led to unfilled jobs and slowed business growth.
With the new eligibility, employers can now apply for low-wage LMIAs more easily. This can help:
Fill labour shortages faster
Support local businesses and services
Reduce pressure on the domestic labour market
For foreign workers, this means more job opportunities in a wider range of locations. It also helps communities maintain essential services and industries that depend on these workers.
How Employers Can Prepare
Employers interested in hiring foreign workers through the low-wage LMIA stream should start preparing their applications ahead of the January 9, 2026 start date. The process requires careful documentation and compliance with government rules.
One useful resource for employers is Extensive Consultation with RCIC (Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant). This service offers expert guidance on LMIA applications and immigration processes. Working with an RCIC can help employers:
Understand eligibility criteria
Prepare accurate and complete applications
Navigate complex immigration rules
You can learn more about this service at Admire Immigration’s Extensive Consultation with RCIC.
What to Expect in the Coming Months
As the government rolls out low-wage LMIA processing in these new regions, employers and workers should watch for updates and guidance. It’s important to stay informed about any changes to wage thresholds or application procedures.
Employers should also consider how this expansion fits into their overall hiring strategy. Combining local recruitment efforts with LMIA applications can help build a strong workforce.
Summary
Canada’s decision to expand low-wage LMIA processing to eight more regions starting in early 2026 will open new doors for employers and foreign workers. This move aims to ease labour shortages and support economic activity in cities like Vancouver, Winnipeg, and Kingston.
Employers should prepare for the change by understanding the new wage thresholds and considering professional advice, such as the Extensive Consultation with RCIC service. This can improve the chances of a successful LMIA application.