The Ministry Of Immigration in Quebec has updated the list as to what jobs are eligible for LMIA processing in Quebec. This occurs because Quebec operates separately from the rest of the nation with respect to immigration, governing its own rules, structure, & programs for foreign nationals looking to make a home in Canada’s only majority French-language province. 

What Is An LMIA? 

An LMIA proves that the hiring of a temporary worker will not negatively impact the labor market. In simpler terms, specific employers seeking to hire temporary foreign workers must request this document from the government & ensure that the intended hire will have a positive/ neutral impact on the job market. 

Note: The Quebec Government notes that in 2023, the simplified processing list of eligible professions affects only salaried workers & not the ones who are self-employed. 

How LMIAs Differ In Quebec v/s Rest Of The Nation 

In addition to what jobs are eligible for LMIA processing in Quebec, it is vital to note that Quebec has its own profession list because this province operates its immigration policies independently from the rest of Canada. 

Despite this, Quebec has to involve the federal government in LMIA processing for two main reasons, i.e., 

  • Quebec-based employers should have their LMIA applications approved by both provincial & federal governments.
  • Quebec-based LMIA candidates must submit their applications, including all required documents, to both governments. However, failure to do so will result in immediate rejection. 

What Jobs Are Eligible For LMIA Processing In Quebec? 

In the last two years, the number of eligible jobs on Quebec’s list has grown by more than 100 occupations, now including over 300 total job titles. 

Moreover, IRCC now uses an updated 2021 version of the NOC system. This implies that all LMIA applications obtained after the transition date will be processed using the updated NOC 2021 system.  

Simplified LMIA Processing In Quebec: Eligibility 

All employers looking to use simplified LMIA processing to hire temporary foreign workers must adhere to these three conditions, i.e., 

  • Provide A Competitive Working Environment 

Quebec-based employers seeking to take advantage of the province’s simplified processing system for LMIAs should offer a competitive working environment, i.e., from high salaries to apt working conditions. 

This requirement can be satisfied by taking time in an LMIA application to describe the job offered along with including details related to ‘conditions & requirements to people already employed in a specific field.’ 

  • Comply With Laws & Regulations 

In order to take advantage of simplified LMIA processing, employers in Quebec must prove that: 

  • Their business is in Quebec
  • The position offered meets all listed professions 
  • Their organization hasn’t been convicted of any Section 99 offenses 
  • The position offered meets legitimate labor needs 
  • The position offered does not negatively affect the labor market of the province

  • Offer Health Insurance 

Quebec employers must provide hired workers with free medical coverage until the individual is eligible for RAMQ coverage. 

Eligibility Criteria For Low-Wage Positions Seeking A Simplified LMIA 

Apart from the eligibility criteria mentioned above, employers seeking simplified LMIA to hire a temporary foreign worker in a position where the hourly wage is less than the median must: 

  • Help hired workers find affordable & suitable housing. 
  • Cover all round-trip transportation costs workers incur when traveling from their country of permanent residence to their place of work in Quebec.
  • Provide low-wage workers with coverage equivalent to the RAMQ plan until they are eligible for RAMQ coverage.

What Jobs Are Ineligible For Simplified LMIA Processing? 

Any job is not eligible for LMIA processing if it: 

  • Will be occupied by a temporary foreign worker who exercises control over the business.
  • Meets the labor needs of a third-party client, person, or public body instead of the employer.
  • Interferes with an ongoing legal dispute settlement. 
  • Might harm people affected by a labor dispute. 
  • Conflicts with Chapter C-27 of Quebec’s Labor Code. 
  • Is in an industry deemed ineligible for the Temporary Foreign Worker Program.