Canada's Updated LMIA Unemployment Rates Are Now in Force — What Employers and Foreign Workers Need to Know
Source: Immigration News Canada · April 13, 2026
Key Facts
- New Census Metropolitan Area (CMA) unemployment rate thresholds are in effect from April 10, 2026 for all low-wage LMIA applications
- Employers in areas with unemployment rates at or above 6% now face restrictions on hiring through the Temporary Foreign Worker (TFW) Program for low-wage roles
- This affects LMIA applications in sectors like food service, retail, hospitality, and warehousing in some cities
- High-wage positions and certain shortage occupations (healthcare, construction, agriculture) are largely not affected by this restriction
- Employers should check their specific CMA rate before submitting a new LMIA application to avoid rejection
What This Means For You
If your Canadian job offer requires an LMIA: Your employer may be affected if they are in a high-unemployment city or sector. Ask your employer to verify their CMA unemployment rate before they submit the LMIA application. A rejected LMIA wastes time and money for both you and your employer. If your job falls in a restricted category, explore LMIA-exempt pathways instead.
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