What Are Canada Work Visa Chances After LMIA?

Once you receive a positive LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) from a Canadian employer, your chances of getting a Canada work visa are significantly higher — but approval is not guaranteed. Here's a breakdown:

Why LMIA is a Strong Advantage:

• A positive LMIA means the Canadian employer has proven that no Canadian citizen or permanent resident could fill the job.

• It supports your employer-specific work permit application, showing that the job is legitimate and approved by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC).

Estimated Approval Chances After LMIA:

• If all documents are correct and eligibility is met: 80–95% chance.

• If there are issues (missing docs, inadmissibility, etc.): chances drop significantly.

To Increase Your Chances:

1. Provide all required documents, including a valid passport, signed job offer, and LMIA approval letter.

2. Show proof of qualifications – education, experience, certifications if needed.

3. Pass medical and security checks.

4. Have a clean immigration history (no bans, visa refusals, overstays, etc.).

5. Demonstrate intent to leave Canada after your work permit ends (unless applying for PR).

Work Visa May Be Refused If:

• You submit incomplete or fake documents.

• You have health issues or criminal history.

• The visa officer doubts your intentions (e.g., fears you may overstay or misuse the visa).

Summary:

A positive LMIA gives you a very strong chance of approval, but you still need to meet all other visa conditions. Treat it as a major step forward, but not the final guarantee.