01/26/2026
Low-wage LMIA processing is resuming in several major Canadian regions, following updated unemployment data released in January 2026 🇨🇦📄.
📍 Regions removed from the restriction list as of January 8, 2026:
✅ Halifax, NS: 6.1 → 5.2
✅ Moncton, NB: 7.3 → 5.5
✅ Saint John, NB: 7.3 → 5.8
✅ Fredericton, NB: 6.7 → 5.2
✅ Montréal, QC: 6.7 → 5.5
✅ Kingston, ON: 6.6 → 5.6
✅ Winnipeg, MB: 7.3 → 5.7
✅ Vancouver, BC: 6.8 → 5.9
The federal government will begin processing low-wage Labour Market Impact Assessments in regions that were previously restricted but have now recorded unemployment rates below 6 percent.
This means employers in these areas can once again support work permit applications under the low-wage stream of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program.
Job offers in these regions were not eligible for low-wage LMIA processing in late 2025, but they are now eligible again in Q1 2026 📈.
It is important to note that LMIA eligibility depends on regional unemployment rates, not just the job offer itself. Employers located in regions with unemployment at or above 6 percent must either increase wages to meet the high-wage stream requirements or wait for the next quarterly update. The next review is expected on April 10, 2026.
Before submitting an LMIA or work permit application, both employers and foreign workers should confirm the CMA unemployment rate tied to the job location to avoid delays or refusals.
