LMIA and CAQ to hire a foreign worker

How we can help

Pro Immigration supports your business to:

• review the position and determine the applicable LMIA stream;
• prepare the LMIA application;
• prepare the temporary worker CAQ steps when they are required;
• coordinate with the worker on their work permit application;
• follow the process.

We cannot guarantee that an LMIA, a CAQ or a permit will be approved: the decision rests with the competent authorities.

LMIA and CAQ: what is the difference?

• LMIA: the employer's process. In Québec, it is authorized jointly by Québec and Canada;
• CAQ: Québec's authorization for the worker (temporary selection application), submitted by the employer with the LMIA. It is not required in some situations;
• Work permit: issued to the worker by IRCC, once the authorizations are obtained.

According to Québec.ca, the CAQ is not required in particular if the work lasts 30 days or less, if it is unpaid, if the employer does not have to apply for an LMIA, or if the worker is exempt from a work permit. For an extension, see work permit extension.