LMIA-exempt work permit
Statutory definition
IRPR ss 204–208 list specific exemptions from the LMIA requirement: s 204 (international agreements including CUSMA and GATS); s 205 (significant benefit to Canada — ICT, notable benefit, research); s 206 (no other means of support); s 207 (students and others); s 208 (humanitarian grounds). Employers using LMIA-exempt streams must still submit an employer compliance submission through the Employer Portal and pay the compliance fee.
Explanation
LMIA-exempt work permits are processed by IRCC without involvement from ESDC. The processing time is generally faster than LMIA-based permits. The most common LMIA-exempt categories are CUSMA (TN), ICT, PGWP, IEC, and significant benefit (used for specialised knowledge workers who do not strictly qualify as ICTs). Even without an LMIA, the employer must submit a compliance offer through the Employer Portal — failing to do so can affect the worker's work permit application.