How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Foreign Worker in Canada?

The cost of hiring a foreign worker in Canada is more than a single government fee. Budgeting accurately up front avoids surprises and helps you compare the true cost against leaving a role unfilled. Here is what typically goes into it.

Government and processing fees

The core mandatory cost is the LMIA processing fee, currently CAD $1,000 per position (always verify the current amount with ESDC, as fees change). Depending on the worker's situation there may also be work permit fees, biometrics fees, and a temporary resident visa fee. Some of these are the worker's responsibility, though many employers choose to assist.

Recruitment and screening

Finding, verifying, and screening qualified candidates abroad takes time and expertise. Working with a recruitment agency converts this into a predictable service rather than an open-ended internal effort. At Global Work Solutions, workers never pay a fee — recruitment costs are carried on the employer side, which keeps the process ethical and compliant.

Wages at the prevailing rate

You must pay foreign workers at least the prevailing wage for the occupation and region. This is not an add-on cost so much as a rule: undercutting local wages is not permitted and is checked during the LMIA. Budget for a fair, market-rate salary.

Relocation and settlement

Depending on the role and program stream, you may contribute to travel, initial accommodation, and settlement support. Certain streams have specific obligations around housing and transportation, so confirm what applies to your case.

Compliance and record-keeping

Staying compliant with program conditions — accurate records, correct wages, and readiness for inspection — has a real but manageable cost. The far larger cost is non-compliance: penalties and program bans. A good recruitment partner builds this into the process so it does not become an afterthought.

Budgeting realistically

• Fixed: LMIA fee (CAD $1,000/position, verify current amount)
• Variable: work permit, biometrics, and visa fees (worker or employer)
• Ongoing: prevailing wages and standard employment costs
• Situational: travel, accommodation, and settlement support
• Service: recruitment and compliance support (agency)

Every hire is different, and the smartest first step is a scoped estimate for your specific roles and locations. Global Work Solutions can walk you through a realistic budget before you commit.