Overcoming the Pandemic and a Mid-Review Rule Change to Obtain an LMIA Work Permit|Ms. M
Date Posted:April 23, 2025
Last Updated:September 24, 2026
Shiraishi VisaJP Canada supports clients through LMIA-based work permit applications even when circumstances turn against them. In this case, we share the story of Ms. M, who came through the pandemic and a change to the LMIA rules mid-review to obtain her work permit.
One unexpected event followed another and it was a genuinely difficult case, but my consultant always responded in earnest.
LMIA Work Permit
Office Manager
LMIA Work Permit with the Same Employer
Greater Vancouver Area
Just over 9 months (LMIA review)
Key Points from the Consultant
A great many years have passed since Ms. M first used our services, and during that time the COVID-19 pandemic and last year’s changes to the LMIA rules had a considerable effect on her applications and reviews. Among all the clients I have assisted, she stands out as one who faced particular hardship.
The officer reviewing this LMIA was very demanding, requesting additional documents and information, and there was a point where I thought this time it might not be possible. But thanks to the extensive and prompt cooperation of both the employer and Ms. M, we were able to submit convincing explanations and documents by the deadline, and it was approved without issue.
Thank you sincerely for using our services over so many years.
Immigration Consultant
Born in Japan. Worked in tour planning and led international tours at a major travel agency, visiting dozens of countries. After immigrating to Canada in 2003, she worked at a software company in Montreal focusing on the Japanese market. She studied Immigration Consulting at Vanier College and became a licensed immigration consultant. Wanting to support the Japanese community more actively, she relocated to Vancouver where she currently resides and works.
Client Comments
Why did you decide to immigrate to Canada?
Rather than thinking “I want to immigrate to Canada,” what I felt strongly was that I wanted to carry on with the job I had started during my working holiday. That led me to decide to obtain an LMIA work permit and then move on to a permanent residence application.
What made you choose Shiraishi VisaJP Canada?
The information on their website was extremely thorough, and Ms. Nishizawa, the counsellor who handled my first enquiry, felt attentive and trustworthy. That is what made me decide to work with them.
What was the most memorable part of the process?
The pandemic hit immediately after I obtained my work permit, which threw all my subsequent plans into disarray. The rules also changed while my LMIA was under review, which had a critical impact, and that stayed with me. I was tossed around again and again by external factors that were entirely beyond my control.
How was your experience using Shiraishi VisaJP Canada’s services?
One unexpected event followed another and I think it was a genuinely difficult case, even from my own point of view, but Ms. Sakurai, my consultant, always responded in earnest. She answered my questions and concerns honestly and was a tremendously reassuring presence.
Future outlook and a message for those planning to travel to Canada
Because the rules around visas and permanent residence keep changing, the uncertainty is extreme even when you try to plan, and honestly there are many moments that feel unreasonable. A fair amount of stress comes with that. But precisely because of this, if you rely properly on professionals where you can and move forward one step at a time, steadily and with a degree of flexibility, I believe the result you end up with will be one you can accept.
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