Key Points
- Quebec has reduced its Simplified Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) occupation list from 267 to 76.
- The update prioritizes high-demand sectors such as IT, healthcare, engineering, construction, and education.
- Roles requiring little or no formal education have been removed from the list.
- The change impacts employers’ ability to use the fast-track LMIA process for certain positions.
Overview
The Government of Quebec has significantly revised its Simplified Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) occupation list, cutting it from 267 eligible roles down to 76. This streamlined list reflects a strategic shift to support only high-demand occupations across key industries such as engineering, information technology, healthcare, education, and construction.
The Simplified LMIA process allows Quebec-based employers to hire foreign workers without demonstrating domestic recruitment efforts—a requirement under the standard LMIA route. However, the updated list removes lower-skilled jobs and positions requiring minimal formal education, narrowing eligibility to roles that align more closely with Quebec’s economic and labor market needs.
Employers who previously relied on the broader list for streamlined hiring or renewal of foreign workers may now find their positions excluded. This could lead to longer application processing times, additional recruitment requirements, and potential delays in securing international talent.
As this change was implemented without a transition period, companies should promptly review the updated occupation list to assess how the revision affects ongoing and planned employment strategies.
Looking Ahead
Employers in Quebec should revisit their workforce planning and immigration compliance strategies to account for the reduced LMIA eligibility. Those impacted may need to prepare for a shift to the standard LMIA process, which involves more rigorous advertising and recruitment proof. Future updates to the list could reflect further alignment with labor market trends, so companies should monitor announcements from the Ministry of Immigration, Francisation and Integration (MIFI). Employers are encouraged to consult immigration counsel to navigate evolving requirements and minimize disruptions to talent acquisition.
