High-wage vs. low-wage streams
Which LMIA stream applies depends on whether the wage offered is at or above the provincial or territorial median hourly wage. Each stream has different obligations:
High-wage stream
Wage at or above the provincial median. Requires a transition plan showing how you will reduce your reliance on temporary foreign workers over time.
Low-wage stream
Wage below the median. Subject to caps on the share of low-wage foreign workers at a worksite, plus extra employer obligations such as transportation and help finding affordable housing.
What employers need to prepare
- Recruitment efforts for Canadians and permanent residents that meet ESDC's minimum advertising requirements and timelines.
- A genuine job offer with wages and working conditions that match the prevailing standard for the occupation and region.
- Proof the business is legitimate, and a clean compliance history.
- In Saskatchewan, employer registration with the province before recruiting foreign nationals, and use of a licensed recruiter under The Foreign Worker Recruitment and Immigration Services Act.
Theme Immigration holds Saskatchewan Immigration and Recruiter Licence #001052, so we can support both the immigration and the recruitment side of your hiring legally.
How we help
- Hiring strategy: we check whether an LMIA is needed, which stream applies and whether an exemption is available.
- Recruitment compliance: we plan and document advertising that meets ESDC requirements.
- LMIA application: we prepare the application, transition plan and employer submissions.
- Worker's permit: once the LMIA is approved, we prepare the worker's work permit application.
- Ongoing compliance: we advise on wages, records and inspections throughout employment.
Immigration programs and requirements are updated frequently. This page is general information, not legal advice. Book a consultation for guidance based on the rules in effect for your case.
