Key 2024 Changes for LMIA and CAQ Applications in Quebec
September marked several changes for Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) and Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) applications for low-wage positions in the province of Quebec.
Definition
The reference wage is the “median hourly wage” identified by Quebec, which is $27.47. Any position for which the offered wage is below the reference wage is considered a low-wage position.
Changes
- LMIA applications are no longer processed when they concern: a. low-wage positions; and b. employment located in the Montreal administrative region, whether the position is seasonal or not.
- Employers can hire temporary foreign workers up to a maximum of 10% of their total workforce. The previous percentage was 20%.
Exceptions
These new rules do not apply to the agriculture, construction, food processing, education, healthcare, and social services sectors.
Conclusion
There is no doubt that this new regulatory environment requires greater planning regarding your international hiring. While obtaining certain LMIAs and CAQs has become much more difficult, it is important to keep things into perspective. First, the path for LMIA and CAQ applications is not completely closed. Furthermore, there are other options available to bring the foreign talent your company needs to Canada.
