How to apply for an LMIA for work in Quebec

Here is an overview on how to apply for an LMIA for work in Quebec.

Foreign workers intending to work in Quebec must have their LMIA applications assessed by the Ministry of Immigration, Francisation and Integration (MIFI) as well as Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC).

If the Quebec government issues a positive LMIA, it will issue a Certificat d’acceptation du Québec (CAQ). The CAQ must be presented by a foreign worker to a Canadian border officer when entering Canada for work in Quebec.

A CAQ is not required for those seeking work in Quebec in:

• A job that is exempt from the LMIA requirement.
• A job with a duration of less than 30 days.
• An unpaid internship.

The Quebec LMIA application process for a job located in Quebec:

1. An employer wishing to hire a temporary foreign worker submits the LMIA application form to Service Canada. The form must describe the nature of the employment and the skills required to perform the work. More information on the Canadian LMIA application process is available here.
2. If the employer first submits the LMIA application to the MIFI, they will be advised by Quebec to submit the request to Service Canada.
3. After assessing the request, Service Canada sends the application and any background information to MIFI and indicates its intention to accept or refuse the application.
4. Within 10 days, MIFI will confirm to Service Canada its intention to accept or refuse.
5. If either Canada or Quebec can demonstrate that the employment will have a negative effect on the labour market, the employer’s request will be refused.
6. If both Canada and Quebec agree that the employment can only be filled with a temporary foreign worker, the application will be approved.
7. If approved, Service Canada will send the employer a letter confirming the decision to approve the application. The employer then informs the potential employee. The employee must then contact the relevant processing office indicated in the letter of approval.
8. Service Canada will confirm the approval to the appropriate visa or immigration office.
9. The worker is issued a positive LMIA and a CAQ.

A CAQ will generally be valid for a maximum period of 36 months.