Canadian Employers in 2025: Key Changes When Hiring Foreign Workers
- Kanwarjit Singh Lall (RCIC)
- Apr 26
- 2 min read
Hiring foreign workers in Canada remains a viable strategy to address labour shortages, but the landscape in 2025 has evolved with new regulations and stricter compliance measures. This guide outlines the key updates and considerations for employers navigating the hiring process this year.
Key Updates to the Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) Process The LMIA is a critical step for employers seeking to hire temporary foreign workers. In 2025, several changes have been implemented:
·Reduced Caps on Low-Wage Positions: Employers can now hire only up to 10% of their workforce as low-wage foreign workers, down from the previous 20% limit.
·Shortened Employment Duration: The maximum duration for low-wage positions has been reduced from two years to one year.
·Regional Restrictions: From April 4 to July 10, 2025, LMIA applications for low-wage positions will not be processed in 24 regions with unemployment rate 6% or higher.
Processing Time: As of April 2025, average LMIA processing times are:
· Global Talent Stream: 7 business days
· High-Wage Stream: 74 business days
· Low-Wage Stream: 74 business days
· Agricultural Stream: 16 business days
· Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP): 8 business days.
Employer Eligibility and Compliance Requirements
To hire foreign workers, employers must meet specific criteria:
· Operational Business: The business must be active and provide goods or services in Canada.
· Demonstrate Need: there must be a legitimate need for foreign workers due to labor or skill shortage.
· Financial Capability: Employers must demonstrate the financial ability to support temporary worker.
· Compliance with Laws: Employers must be in good standing with employment laws and regulations.
In British Columbia, employers must also obtain a certificate of registration from Employment Standards before applying for LMIA.
Alternative Hiring Pathways: Employers may consider the International Mobility Program (IMP) for hiring foreign workers without an LMIA. The IMP includes categories such as intra-company transfers and international agreements. However, eligibility criteria are stringent, and employers must ensure they meet all requirements.
In final thoughts, it is better to plan ahead, stay informed and seek Professional Advice who can navigate you through the complexities of hiring foreign worker.
ADMIRE IMMIGRATION SERVICES INC
Vancouver: #200, 223 W Broadway, BC, V5Y 1P5. Phone: 778-925-3008
Surrey: #385-8148, 128 Street, BC, V3W 1R1. Phone: 778-683-3008
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