Updated Unemployment Rates for Canada CMAs Under LMIA, Starting January 2025
January 14,2025 Amritpal Kaur
Canada has updated its unemployment rates for various regions (known as Census Metropolitan Areas, or CMAs) as of January 10, 2025. These changes directly impact the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) process, which employers use to hire foreign workers for low-wage jobs. Here's a breakdown of what the updates mean for both employers and foreign workers.
What Is an LMIA?
An LMIA is required for employers to hire foreign workers. If the unemployment rate in a region is 6% or higher, LMIA applications for low-wage jobs are refused. However, there are exceptions for critical sectors like agriculture, construction, and healthcare.
Main Updates in 2025
Regions Below 6% Unemployment Now Eligible: Several regions now have unemployment rates below 6%, meaning employers in these areas can apply for LMIA approval for low-wage jobs. These include:
Vancouver
Abbotsford
Winnipeg
Brantford
Kingston
Ottawa-Gatineau
Trois-Rivières
Regions Above 6% Ineligible: Areas like Saint John, Guelph, and Barrie now have unemployment rates above 6%, meaning they are ineligible for LMIA applications for low-wage jobs until April 2025.
Important Changes in 2024
Foreign Worker Cap: Employers can hire a maximum of 10% of their workforce from abroad (down from 20%). Critical sectors still have a cap of 20%.
Shorter Work Permits: Foreign workers in low-wage jobs can now stay for only one year, down from the previous two years.
Why It Matters
For Employers: If your region has low unemployment, you’ll find it easier to hire foreign workers for low-wage jobs. If your area has high unemployment, hiring foreign workers will be more challenging until the rate drops.
For Foreign Workers: Focus on regions with lower unemployment or critical sectors (e.g., agriculture, healthcare) to increase your chances of getting hired and obtaining a work permit.
Need Help with Your LMIA or Work Permit Application?
If you're unsure how the recent unemployment rate changes might affect your LMIA application or the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), we are here to help. Whether you’re an employer looking to hire foreign workers, or a foreign worker seeking a job in Canada, our team can provide guidance and support throughout the application process.
Contact us today for expert advice and assistance:
Call us at: 647-222-6795
Email: info@zandbimmigration.ca | amritpal@zandbimmigration.ca
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