LMIA Processing Time in 2026: How Long Until You Get Your Work Permit?

Posted by ArcticLoon533Aug 26, 202619 views0

My employer applied for a Canadian LMIA on my behalf recently, in June 2026, although I don't know the exact date the application was submitted. I'm trying to understand how long the LMIA process is currently taking in 2026. Once the LMIA application is submitted, what is the typical processing time before the employer receives a decision? Also, after the LMIA is approved, how long does it usually take to complete the work permit/visa process and actually receive the visa?

1 Reply

KeenCoast4608 days ago

It depends on the LMIA stream, but if your employer applied in June, it could take a few months just to get the LMIA decision. After approval, the work permit has a separate processing time, so I’d realistically expect several months in total.