LMIA Application Processing Times

The Government of Canada updates LMIA processing times every month. These timelines show the average number of business days it took to process applications that were completed in the previous month. 

You should use these timelines as a planning guide, not a guarantee. Some applications may take more or less time.

Processing times 

Below are the average LMIA processing times for March 2026, showing how the current figures stack up against February 2025 for each stream: 

• Global Talent Stream: 7 business days (5 days faster)

• Agricultural stream: 16 business days (1 day slower)

• Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program: 10 business days (No change)

• High-wage stream: 59 business days (1 day faster)

• Low-wage stream: 50 business days (2 days slower)

• Permanent resident stream: 192 (52 days faster)

Processing times can change from month to month, especially if application numbers increase. It’s also worth noting that LMIA processing time doesn’t include your work permit processing time. That part happens separately through IRCC, and it can add a big chunk to the overall wait.  

For example, work permits from inside Canada (initial and extension) are currently listed at 247 days (last updated April 9, 2026).  

As of April 9, 2026, IRCC’s posted processing times for work permits from outside Canada are: 

• United Kingdom: 12 weeks
• India: 7 weeks
• Philippines: 8 weeks 

When your application processing time starts 

Your LMIA processing time starts only after you send in a complete application through LMIA Online. 

An application is considered complete once all required documents are included, the employer has signed every required form, and the processing fee has been paid (if one applies to your stream). If any of those pieces are missing, the application won’t be processed, and you won’t be charged a fee either. 

Applications for jobs in Quebec 

For jobs in Quebec that last more than 30 days in a row, the “complete application” rule is a bit stricter. Your LMIA is only considered complete if you submit to both Service Canada and Quebec’s Ministry of Immigration (MIFI), and you use the format Quebec requires. If either piece is missing, the clock doesn’t start, and your processing time won’t begin. 

When your application processing time ends 

Your LMIA processing time ends when Service Canada sends you a decision letter. 

The decision will be either: 

• Positive LMIA, or

• Negative LMIA 

If your LMIA is approved, you should receive a copy of the decision letter from your employer. You’ll need it when you apply for your work permit. 

Why planning ahead matters 

LMIA timelines can feel unpredictable, and honestly, sometimes they are. Processing times change, applications can slow down, and small delays can have a ripple effect on job start dates and work permit applications. That’s why planning ahead really matters. 

Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress and avoid last-minute surprises. It also gives your employer room to fix issues, respond to requests, or adjust timelines if needed. A little buffer now can save a lot of scrambling later and make the whole process feel more manageable. 

Want to stay on top of LMIA changes (and other Canadian immigration updates) without constantly checking government pages? Join the Moving2Canada community for updates on LMIA rules, processing times, and work permit news.