Canada extends LMIA-exempt work permit pilot, i.e., Canada has decided to extend the Innovation Stream, a program that allows certain foreign workers to get work permits without needing a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). This extension will continue the program for two more years.
The Innovation Stream helps high-skilled foreign nationals get employer-specific work permits more easily. Since these permits do not require an LMIA, the process is faster and simpler for both workers and employers.
Who Can Apply Under The Innovation Stream?
The Innovation Stream is open to foreign nationals who have job offers from companies that are part of the Global Hypergrowth Project (GHP).
Eight companies are currently participating:
- Ada Support Inc.
- AlayaCare.
- CellCarta.
- Clarius Mobile Health.
- Clio.
- Duchesnay Pharmaceutical Group (DPG).
- Lightspeed Commerce.
- Vive Crop Protection.
To qualify, the foreign worker must have a job offer from one of these companies in a high-skilled role.
The job must fall under the Training, Education, Experience, and Responsibilities (TEER) categories 0, 1, 2, or 3 in Canada’s National Occupational Classification (NOC) system.
The worker must also meet the education and experience requirements listed for that job under the NOC system.
Jobs under TEER 0 or 1 may also benefit from faster processing.
If the worker is employed in a TEER 0 or 1 job, or in certain TEER 2 or 3 jobs, their spouse or common-law partner may also qualify for an open work permit.
The Global Hypergrowth Project is a government initiative that supports fast-growing Canadian companies. These companies are considered important for innovation and economic growth.
According to an update released on March 23, 2026, the Innovation Stream will now continue until March 22, 2028.
Why Do LMIA-Exempt Work Permits Matter?
An LMIA is a document issued by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). It checks whether hiring a foreign worker will affect the Canadian job market.
Most work permits under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) require a positive or neutral LMIA. This means the employer must prove that hiring a foreign worker will not harm job opportunities for Canadians.
Well, getting an LMIA can take time and money. Employers must pay a fee of $1,000 and submit an application. Processing can take three to four months, and the LMIA is valid for only six months.
An LMIA is also needed to extend or renew a work permit under the TFWP.
At present, Canada has paused the processing of low-wage LMIAs in areas where unemployment is above 6%.
Because of these challenges, LMIA-exempt work permits under the Innovation Stream are very helpful. They reduce delays and make hiring easier.
Canada’s Focus On Skilled Talent
The extension of this program shows that Canada is focused on attracting skilled workers from around the world, especially in technology and innovation sectors.
Canada has been working to bring in global talent, including workers affected by higher visa costs in other countries like the United States.
Prime Minister Mark Carney has highlighted the importance of attracting skilled tech workers. Canada’s immigration plans also include new pathways for such professionals.
In December 2025, Canada launched the Research Talent Initiative. This program introduced new streams to attract and keep international researchers.
In 2026, Canada also expanded its category-based selection system to include more groups, including researchers with Canadian work experience.
Overall, the extension of the Innovation Stream supports Canada’s goal of building a strong and skilled workforce. It also helps companies grow by giving them easier access to global talent.
Explore your pathway to move to Canada with Immigtoronto. Our team of skilled RCICs offers customized immigration solutions, ensuring a trustworthy and professional process. Contact us at [email protected].
