LMIA-Exempt Work Permit Expansion

LMIA-exempt work permits increased to 170,000 (32% increase) while LMIA-based permits cut to 60,000 (27% decrease) in 2026.


Timeline

Apr 11, 2026

Policy Change

LMIA-exempt work permits increased to 170,000 (32% increase) while LMIA-based permits cut to 60,000 (27% decrease) in 2026.

This shift indicates Canada's preference for faster, less bureaucratic work permit pathways that don't require labor market testing, likely to attract global talent more efficiently.

Work Permits Update — April 11, 2026

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