The Government of Canada has updated the median hourly wages used as the reference point in Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) applications. The changes took effect on 27 June 2025 and directly affect how employers and temporary foreign workers should structure a hiring process.
In this article we explain what changed, how the wage classification works, and set out the new figures for every province and territory.
How does wage classification work in an LMIA?
The LMIA program splits job offers into two main categories:
- High-wage: where the wage offered is at or above the median hourly wage set for the province or territory in which the work will be performed.
- Low-wage: where the wage falls below that median.
The classification directly changes what is required of the employer, including:
- Transition plans towards hiring permanent residents
- Caps on the number of workers
- Housing, transport and insurance requirements
Important: the new guidance applies only to LMIAs submitted on or after 27 June 2025. Applications filed before that date follow the previous figures.
Table: new median wages by province/territory (June 2025)
These are the updated figures that decide whether an offer is high-wage or low-wage in each region:
| Province/Territory | Median hourly wage (from 27/06/2025) |
|---|---|
| Alberta | $36.00 |
| British Columbia | $36.60 |
| Manitoba | $30.16 |
| New Brunswick | $30.00 |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | $32.40 |
| Northwest Territories | $48.00 |
| Nova Scotia | $30.00 |
| Nunavut | $42.00 |
| Ontario | $36.00 |
| Prince Edward Island | $30.00 |
| Quebec | $34.62 |
| Saskatchewan | $33.60 |
| Yukon | $44.40 |
📌 Official source: Government of Canada – median wages by province
What does this mean for employers?
Employers planning to hire foreign workers should review their wage offers against the new figures. A wage that previously counted as "high-wage" may now fall into the "low-wage" category, triggering additional obligations and, in regions with high unemployment, potentially limiting approval altogether.
And for foreign workers?
If you are already in Canada or plan to come on the strength of a job offer, it is essential to confirm that the role meets the new criteria. A wage above the provincial threshold can make the LMIA easier to obtain and, in many cases, strengthen a future permanent residence application.
Need help?
The Turas Immigration team is available to advise both employers and workers on the impact of these changes, prepare the required documentation, and make sure the LMIA process lines up with the new federal requirements.
📩 Get in touch to book a personalised consultation. 📞 Talk to Turas Immigration
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