Canada is expanding opportunities for skilled professionals worldwide, particularly in tech and healthcare, to build their careers in the country. A number of companies are now able to offer work permits exempt from the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) a requirement that usually ensures no Canadian worker is available for a role before hiring foreign talent.
This article highlights six companies actively seeking international talent, especially for skilled workers considering relocating to Canada.
Understanding LMIA-Exempt Work Permits
Before exploring the companies offering these permits, let’s clarify what an LMIA-exempt work permit is. In most cases, Canadian employers need to go through the LMIA process before hiring international workers. However, for some positions in high-demand fields like tech and healthcare, LMIA exemptions allow companies to bypass this time-consuming process, enabling foreign workers to start sooner.
Canada’s Focus on Global Talent
Canada’s tech and healthcare sectors have been booming, and demand for skilled workers in these industries is high. Programs like the Innovation Stream under the Canada Tech Talent Strategy aim to streamline access for foreign talent in high-demand fields, allowing them to contribute their expertise to Canada’s economy without the need for an LMIA. This initiative makes Canada an attractive destination for skilled professionals worldwide, especially in tech and healthcare.
Six Companies Offering LMIA-Exempt Work Permits
1. Ada Support Inc.
- About: Founded in 2016 in Toronto, Ada Support Inc. is transforming customer service with AI-driven, multilingual solutions that operate 24/7 across various platforms.
- LMIA Exemptions: Ada Support offers LMIA-exempt work permits in areas like AI, customer service tech, and operations. Most roles support remote work, with certain positions requiring employees to work within specific Canadian provinces.
- Benefits:
- Stock options
- Flexible holiday policy
- Remote work support and home office budget
- Current Openings: 15 positions, mainly in product development, revenue operations, and customer service.
2. AlayaCare
- About: Founded in 2014 in Montreal, AlayaCare specializes in healthcare technology with a cloud-based platform that streamlines tasks like scheduling and billing to enhance healthcare delivery.
- LMIA Exemptions: The company provides LMIA-exempt work permits for roles in health technology, software development, and operations, with some positions requiring bilingual skills in English and French.
- Benefits:
- Remote or hybrid work options
- Professional development programs
- Comprehensive health and dental benefits
3. CellCarta
- About: Based in Montreal, CellCarta is a leader in health diagnostics, using advanced technology to uncover biomarkers that lead to personalized treatment solutions.
- LMIA Exemptions: LMIA exemptions apply for roles in scientific research and healthcare technology, providing opportunities for international workers to contribute to groundbreaking medical diagnostics.
- Benefits:
- Hybrid work options
- Health and wellness programs
- Career advancement opportunities
4. Clarius Mobile Health
- About: Established in 2014, Clarius Mobile Health develops affordable point-of-care ultrasound devices to improve patient care worldwide.
- LMIA Exemptions: Clarius offers LMIA-exempt work permits for roles like biomedical engineers and product developers in medical technology. They also support hybrid work arrangements.
- Benefits:
- Hybrid work environment
- Opportunities for professional growth
- Employee recognition and team-building events
5. Clio
- About: Clio is a leading cloud-based practice management software provider for law firms, with offices in Toronto, Calgary, Dublin, and other locations. The company offers flexible work arrangements to its global workforce.
- LMIA Exemptions: Clio provides LMIA-exempt work permits for roles in software development, customer service, and operations, focusing on legal technology and innovation.
- Benefits:
- RRSP matching
- Parental leave support
- Generous vacation policy and health benefits
6. Lightspeed Commerce
- About: Founded in 2005 and headquartered in Montreal, Lightspeed Commerce is a cloud-based platform for managing sales, inventory, and operations for businesses globally.
- LMIA Exemptions: Lightspeed offers LMIA-exempt positions in software development, sales, and operations, with opportunities in Montreal, Toronto, Ottawa, and remote locations.
- Benefits:
- Flexible working hours
- Health and wellness benefits
- Stock options and career development support
Why LMIA-Exempt Permits Matter for Foreign Workers
LMIA-exempt work permits are a valuable option for foreign professionals looking to work in Canada without the lengthy LMIA process. With these permits, skilled workers in high-demand fields can join the Canadian job market quickly, benefiting from competitive salaries, career advancement, and flexible work environments.
How to Apply
To apply for a position with one of these companies:
- Secure a job offer by applying to any of the above companies.
- Verify that the position is eligible for an LMIA-exempt work permit based on the job role and company requirements.
- Prepare essential documents, including a job offer letter, educational certificates, identity proofs, and other relevant paperwork.
- Complete the work permit application through the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) online portal.
- Await approval from the authorities.
Conclusion
Canada remains a prime destination for skilled workers, and LMIA-exempt work permits make it even easier to join the country’s workforce. Companies like Ada Support, AlayaCare, CellCarta, Clarius Mobile Health, Clio, and Lightspeed Commerce are welcoming foreign professionals, especially in tech, healthcare, and commerce, with flexible roles and attractive benefits. Now is a great time to explore these opportunities and contribute to Canada’s thriving economy.
