Important Information for Employers Supporting LMIA Work Permits: What to Do in Case of Natural Disasters
Date Posted:May 22, 2025
Last Updated:May 22, 2025
Index
As the season of floods and wildfires approaches, it’s crucial for employers who hire foreign workers under the LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) program to be ready for potential emergencies. Based on recent announcements from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), we’ve summarized the essential steps employers should take to ensure compliance and worker safety.
Daily Preparedness: Your Ongoing Responsibility
Even when a natural disaster strikes, your responsibilities as an LMIA employer do not go away. The following preparations are highly recommended to maintain compliance and safeguard your workers.
- Understand local evacuation routes and emergency procedures.
- Prepare a response plan for evacuation orders issued by municipalities or provinces/territories.
- Establish reliable communication methods to stay in contact with foreign workers during emergencies.
Helpful Resources:
If Your Business Is Affected by a Disaster
Even if your business operations are temporarily halted due to a natural disaster, your obligations as an employer under the LMIA program remain in effect.
Employer Obligations Continue
You must continue to meet your responsibilities.
➡ Details on Employer Obligations
If you are unable to fulfill them due to circumstances beyond your control, you should submit a Voluntary Disclosure.
➡ Submit a Voluntary Disclosure
If You Lose Contact with Workers
If you cannot confirm the safety of your foreign worker, please contact your local Processing Centre immediately.
If you must terminate a foreign worker, you are required to issue a Record of Employment (ROE) for their Employment Insurance (EI) application.
If LMIA Conditions Change
If any conditions in the original LMIA change due to termination or other reasons, you must notify the Employer Contact Centre without delay.
Need Help or More Information?
For a full overview of the LMIA work permit program and employer guidelines, please refer to the official documentation below:
➡ LMIA Work Permit Program Overview
Summary
Natural disasters don’t pause your responsibilities as an LMIA employer. To protect your foreign workers and maintain compliance, it’s vital to stay prepared. In cases where obligations cannot be met, proper reporting and procedures can help you avoid future complications.
If you have any questions or need personalized support, please feel free to contact Visa JP Canada. Being prepared today can make all the difference when emergencies arise.
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