Canada extends LMIA grace period for some TFWP work permits
Canada’s immigration department has extended the time allowed for certain in-Canada work permit applicants to submit proof of a positive LMIA. The change gives applicants 90 days instead of 60 days in the concurrent processing period.
What this update means
This update appears to apply to applicants under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program who submit a work permit application before the positive LMIA is ready. In practical terms, it gives more time for the employer and applicant to complete the required documentation after the application has already been filed.
The key confirmed change is the extension from 60 days to 90 days for the period during which proof of the positive LMIA can be provided in these cases.
Why this matters
For some workers and employers, the extra 30 days may reduce pressure when an LMIA decision is still pending or when supporting documents are not ready at the time of submission. It may also help avoid the need to rush a filing simply to meet the earlier deadline.
Possible impact
This update may be helpful for in-Canada applicants who are relying on employer-supported work permit processing. However, it does not change the underlying LMIA requirement itself. Applicants still need to meet the program rules, and the extension is not the same as an approval.
Because official details in the notice are limited, applicants should confirm whether their situation fits the updated timing rules before relying on the extra time.
What applicants should do next
- Check whether your work permit application falls under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program process described in the update.
- Confirm the exact deadline for submitting proof of a positive LMIA.
- Coordinate closely with your employer if the LMIA is still in process.
- Keep records of when the application was submitted and when supporting documents are uploaded.
- Review the latest IRCC instructions before taking action on your file.
FAQ
Does this change remove the LMIA requirement?
No. The update extends the time to provide proof of a positive LMIA in certain cases. It does not remove the LMIA requirement.
Who may benefit from the extra 30 days?
In general, it may help some in-Canada TFWP applicants whose work permit application was submitted before the positive LMIA was available.
Does this apply to all work permit applicants?
No. The update appears to be limited to a specific group of in-Canada applicants under the TFWP process.
Should applicants still verify the deadline?
Yes. Applicants should always confirm the current IRCC instructions and make sure their file matches the updated process.
Immigration policies and procedures can change. This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice.
Conclusion
This is a practical process update for some employer-supported work permit applicants in Canada. The extra time to submit proof of a positive LMIA may help with file preparation, but applicants should still follow the current IRCC rules carefully and monitor their deadlines.
