Average processing timelines by LMIA stream
On May 15, 2026, Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) updated the processing times for the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) applications under various streams. Based on statistics from all processing centres, the average LMIA processing time has increased for all streams except the Permanent Residence Stream and the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program.
- Global Talent Stream — 7 Business Days
- Agricultural Stream — 16 Business Days
- Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program — 10 Business Days
- High-Wage Stream — 59 Business Days
- Low-Wage Stream — 50 Business Days
- Permanent Residence Stream — 192 Business Days
Source: Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) – 2026
Labour Market Impact Assessment application processing times – Canada.ca