Introduction to the Innovation Stream Pilot for LMIA-Exempt Work Permits
Canada continues to position itself as a global leader in innovation and technology by creating new immigration pathways that attract top international talent. One such initiative is the newly launched Innovation Stream Pilot, introduced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) under the International Mobility Program (IMP). This pilot creates a faster and more flexible option for highly skilled foreign workers to contribute to Canada’s most dynamic and rapidly scaling companies.
Launched in 2024 and running until March 22, 2026, the Innovation Stream Pilot provides an LMIA-exempt, employer-specific work permit pathway for foreign nationals who have received a job offer from a Global Hypergrowth Project (GHP) employer. These GHP employers are recognized by the federal government as high-potential firms critical to Canada’s innovation economy and global competitiveness.
The Innovation Stream is designed to support these companies by reducing administrative burdens and speeding up access to the talent they need to grow. Unlike traditional work permit streams, this pilot removes the need for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), a key barrier that often slows down the hiring process. It aligns with Canada’s broader economic and immigration goals by helping anchor top talent in Canada while supporting job creation and innovation-driven growth.
IRCC has published detailed policy, procedural, and operational guidance to support both immigration officers and participating stakeholders. This guidance outlines eligibility criteria, application procedures, and compliance expectations, ensuring that the pilot operates transparently and effectively.
The Innovation Stream represents a significant step in modernizing Canada’s work permit system and enhancing the country’s ability to compete globally for in-demand skills. It is an important tool for scaling Canadian companies while offering exciting new opportunities for skilled foreign workers seeking to join Canada’s thriving innovation ecosystem.
Overview of LMIA Exemption Code C88
The LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) exemption code C88 facilitates the process for high-skilled foreign workers, by exempting certain Global Hypergrowth Project employers from the need to secure an LMIA before hiring foreign talent. Work permit applications under this code can be made before entry, upon entry, or after entry into Canada, involving both IRCC and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) in the process.
Innovation Stream Pilot Employers
The following employers are part of the innovation stream pilot:
Eligibility Criteria
Eligibility under the C88 code requires that the applicant:
- Submit their work permit application online unless exempted from electronic applications.
- Have obtained an offer of employment number from an employer participating in the GHP.
- Receive an offer for a position categorized under TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3, with wages meeting or surpassing median hourly wages by province or territory.
Wage Assessment
The wage offered must meet the higher of two tests:
- It must be at or above the provincial or territorial median hourly wage.
- It must fulfill the terms of the applicable collective bargaining agreement, or if not under such an agreement, it must exceed the prevailing wage defined either as the regional median hourly wage or within the wage range for similar positions in the area.
Application Process
The application assessment involves a thorough review of whether the foreign national can perform the specific work sought in Canada, including meeting the educational and experience requirements as outlined by the National Occupational Classification for the offered position.
Decision-Making and Approval
The final approval for the work permit involves entering specific details such as case type, province of destination, NOC code, and intended occupation into the Global Case Management System. Work permits can be issued for up to five years, contingent on the passport’s validity or the job offer’s duration.
Refusals and Open Work Permits for Family Members
Officers are tasked with recording reasons for any decision to refuse a work permit application, adhering to a standard of reasonable decision-making. Concurrently, family members of high-skilled workers may apply for an open work permit under specific conditions, further facilitating the integration and settlement of skilled workers in Canada.
Conclusion
The Innovation Stream Pilot represents a significant shift in Canada’s approach to immigration, emphasizing the strategic importance of high-skilled foreign workers in enhancing the nation’s economic landscape. Through the LMIA exemption and streamlined processes, IRCC is supporting Canada’s competitive edge on a global scale while providing substantial opportunities for talented foreign nationals and their families. This pilot not only simplifies the immigration pathway for high-skilled occupations but also underscores Canada’s commitment to fostering innovation and economic growth through progressive immigration policies.
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