LMIA – 83% Increase in Western Province in Canada

Dec 4, 2023 / 2 min readspscanadaahd

83% Increase in LMIA Activity in Western Canada

LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) activity grew sharply in 2023, showing a rising demand for skilled and experienced workers across Canada. Employment and Social Development Canada reported a 39% jump in LMIA applications compared to 2022.

However, Western Canada saw the most dramatic change, recording an 83% surge, which confirms the region’s strong labour demand. As applications increased, processing times slowed because officers received far more files than usual.

This rapid growth shows that employers in Western Canada actively seek qualified workers. Therefore, individuals exploring Canada immigration should assess their eligibility with SPS Canada Immigration. The minimum eligibility score remains 67 points for Federal Skilled Worker applications.

Overall, the rising LMIA numbers demonstrate Canada’s continued appeal to global talent and highlight the expanding opportunities in Western Canada.

LMIA processing times differ across provinces and territories, mainly due to uneven application volumes.

Regional Disparities in LMIA Applications

  • Yukon received fewer LMIA applications this year, the only territory with a decline.
  • Nunavut saw the largest rise, with LMIA applications increasing by 535.7%.
  • The Northwest Territories (115.6%), Manitoba (103.3%), and Saskatchewan (103.2%) also recorded significant growth.

Processing Times Across Provinces

Federal data shows that Alberta currently has the longest LMIA processing time in the country. This delay occurs because fewer Alberta employers apply under priority processing streams.

Average processing times:

  • Manitoba: 53 days
  • Northwest Territories: 50.3 days
  • Saskatchewan: 46.7 days

LMIA Applications in Alberta

A CBC report noted that most Alberta LMIA submissions fall under the agriculture and recurring agriculture worker streams. The proportion is higher than in Ontario (11%) and Quebec (18%), which explains part of the slowdown.

What Is the Recognized Employer Program (REP)?

The Recognized Employer Pilot (REP) launched in August 2022 under the Temporary Foreign Worker (TFW) Program. This three-year pilot helps redistribute LMIA applications from overburdened regions to others with greater capacity. As a result, Canada can match labour shortages more efficiently and strengthen its labour market nationwide.

Benefits of REP for Employers

Under REP, eligible employers gain:

  • Simpler access to the TFW Program for in-demand occupations
  • Faster recruitment, supported by streamlined LMIA processes
  • Greater flexibility to meet ongoing labour needs

Eligibility Requirements for REP

Employers must:

  • Earn three or more positive LMIAs for REP-listed occupations within the past five years
  • Maintain excellent working and living conditions for their workers
  • Comply fully with all TFWP standards and obligations

How SPS Canada Immigration Supports You

As LMIA demand rises—especially in Western Canada—navigating the process can feel overwhelming. SPS Canada Immigration offers complete support for workers and employers:

  • We assess eligibility for immigration programs.
  • We guide applicants through LMIA or work-permit pathways.
  • We assist employers in qualifying for the Recognized Employer Pilot by ensuring compliance with high standards.

With SPS Canada Immigration, you move through your Canadian immigration journey confidently and efficiently.

 

 

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