No Additional Points For LMIA Jobs In Canada
Canada takes action to Reduce Immigration fraud in the Express Entry System. On December 23, 2024, Canada announced changes to the Express Entry system to prevent immigrtaion fraud and maintain the integrity of its immigration process. Effective spring 2025, candidates will no longer receive additional points for LMIA jobs in Canada.
This measure targets fraudulent practices such as the illegal buying and selling of Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs), which some applicants use to artificially enhance their Express Entry profiles. The change will impact all candidates in the pool except those who have already received invitations to apply or have active applications.
Minister Marc Miller emphasized that these changes balance the need to attract skilled workers while promoting fairness and transparency. The Express Entry system remains Canada’s flagship immigration program, managing applications for categories like the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Canadian Experience Class, and Provincial Nominee Program.
This initiative reflects Canada’s commitment to building a responsive and well-managed immigration system while reducing incentives for fraudulent activities.
Canada’s new changes to the Express Entrysystem also spotlight the broader issue of immigration fraud, specifically LMIA fraud. Fraudulent activities involving Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs) have included the illegal buying and selling of these documents to inflate candidates’ Express Entry scores, undermining the integrity of Canada’s immigration process.
What Is LMIA Jobs In Canada?
The Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a pivotal component of Canada’s immigration and employment system. It plays a crucial role in safeguarding the Canadian labour market, ensuring that job opportunities are first offered to Canadian citizens and permanent residents before being extended to foreign workers.
An LMIA work permit allows a foreign worker to work temporarily in Canada. It is typically an employer-specific, meaning the foreign worker can only work for the employer and in the position specified in the LMIA. Once the Labour Market Impact Assessment is approved, the foreign worker must apply for a work permit from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), providing the LMIA jobs in Canada and other required documents.
What is LMIA Fraud?
LMIA fraud occurs when individuals or businesses:
- Illegally sell or buy LMIA jobs in Canada to create false job offers.
- Misrepresent information, such as claiming positions that do not exist.
- Exploit foreign workers by charging high fees for fake job offers.
These practices harm genuine applicants and Canadian employers, erode trust in the system, and divert opportunities from those qualified to immigrate.
How to Avoid Immigration Fraud in Canada?
Immigration fraud is common at all stages of the immigration process. Here are key tips to protect yourself:
Verify Consultant’s Title : Only RCICs, Canadian lawyers, or Québec notaries can legally offer immigration advice for a fee.
Diplomas Are Not Enough: Having an immigration diploma doesn’t mean they are authorized. Check their credentials.
Sign a Service Agreement: Ensure you sign a written agreement with an RCIC or lawyer. Keep a copy.
Verify Service Agreement Signers: Only you and the RCIC/Immigration lawyer should sign the agreement. Their full legal name and license ID must be included.
Use Form IMM5476: This form confirms your representative’s authorization. Both parties must sign it.
Never Sign Blank/False Forms: Review all forms carefully. You’re responsible for the accuracy of your application.
Request Copies of Signed Forms: Always keep copies of all documents you sign.
Avoid Paying in Cash: Pay via methods that provide a record, like credit cards or bank transfers.
Request Receipts: Get detailed invoices and receipts for all payments.
Immigration Services Only: Ensure agreements for non-immigration services, like job placements, are separate.
Beware of Agents: Travel, education, or job agents offering immigration help may not be authorized.
Check Partnerships: If someone claims to partner with an RCIC or Immigration lawyer, verify with their regulator.
No Processing Time Guarantees: Timelines are estimates; no one can guarantee them.
No Visa Guarantees: Only IRCC decides the outcome of your application.
No Influence on IRCC: Visa decisions are independent and based solely on your documents.
Verify Status as Active: Ensure the RCIC/Immigration lawyer is listed as “ACTIVE” on their regulator’s registry.
Watch for Fake Websites: Legitimate websites have verifiable contact information and credentials.
Check Liability Insurance: RCICs and lawyers must have professional liability insurance.
Representative Knowledge: Authorized representatives meet professional standards and pursue ongoing education.
Don’t Lie on Applications: Misrepresentation leads to a five-year ban and long-term consequences.
Always verify credentials and follow above guidelines to stay safe. By staying informed and cautious, applicants can protect themselves and contribute to maintaining a fair and transparent immigration system. These steps, combined with Canada’s recent policy changes, aim to reduce fraud and ensure the applicants gets the genuine job offer and the opportunities they deserve.
LMIA FAQs
What are LMIA Jobs in Canada?
An LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) is a document issued by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) that assesses the impact of hiring a foreign worker on the Canadian labor market.
2. Who needs an LMIA?
Employers in Canada hiring foreign workers for most temporary or permanent positions typically require a Labour Market Impact Assessment to show that no Canadian workers are available for the role.
3. How long does it take to get an LMIA?
Processing times for an LMIA jobs in Canada vary but can range from a few weeks to several months, depending on the complexity of the application.
4. How much does an LMIA cost?
Employers must pay a standard processing fee of CAD 1,000 per Labour Market Impact Assessment application, although certain exemptions apply for positions like caregivers.
5. Can an LMIA improve Express Entry scores?
Yes, under normal conditions, having a valid Labour Market Impact Assessment-backed job offer can increase points in the Express Entry system. However, this will no longer apply starting in spring 2025.
How Arnika Visa Help You Getting LMIA?
At Arnika Visa, we assist clients in obtaining LMIA jobs in Canada by providing comprehensive support. Our services include evaluating job descriptions and NOC codes, ensuring compliance with LMIA requirements of ESDC, and effectively guiding clients in advertising positions. We help prepare and submit the LMIA application, ensuring all necessary documentation is accurate and complete. Additionally, we offer strategic advice on recruitment efforts and wage determinations to align with market standards. With our expertise, clients can navigate the Labour Market Impact Assessment process confidently, increasing their chances of approval for hiring foreign workers.
