LOW-WAGE JOB OFFER
The wage offered within the Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) process will determine if an employer needs to apply for an LMIA under the stream for high-wage positions or the stream for low-wage positions. This is critical since each category has its own requirements.
Low-wage Job offer Restrictions
More restrictions are imposed on low-wage job offers than on high-wage, as shown by the following:
- Positive LMIAs for low-wage jobs will now allow employers to hire a foreign worker for only one year at a time
- For organizations with more than 10 employees, low-wage foreign workers can make up no more than 10% of the work force
- Transitional measures will apply to employers whose work forces do not comply with this new rule
- Employers in the accommodation and food service sector as well as the retail trade sector will no longer be allowed to apply for LMIAs for jobs in 10 lower-skill occupations
- As with high-wage LMIA applications, employers must now pay a higher application fee, complete longer application forms, and keep detailed records about their recruitment practices
Procedures for Employers hiring a Temporary Worker for Low-wage position
The employer who is ready to hire a temporary worker for a low-wage position must complete the following steps:
Complete and sign the Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) Labour Market Impact Assessment Application – Low-Wage Positions form.
The Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) application can be submitted up to six months prior to the expected job start date. It must be completed, signed, and sent along with all required documents and the processing fee to the appropriate Service Canada Processing Centre. The application package must include:
- Labour Market Impact Assessment application form for low-wage positions
- Proof of business legitimacy
- Proof of recruitment
- Employment Contract
- If you are applying under the two-year duration pilot for meat processors:
- Schedule L: Two-year Employment Duration for Meat Processors Pilot
- If applicable, a letter of union support which is on union letterhead and signed by an authorized union official. Here is a sample letter that can be adapted by your union.
To know more about Low-wage Job offer and applying for LMIA, contact us and we will be happy to assist you!
