For those seeking stable employment in Canada without a university degree, warehouse jobs with LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) support offer one of the most accessible legal pathways. In 2025, Canadian employers across provinces are actively seeking international workers to fill warehouse positions—with hourly wages ranging from $16 to $22 and many roles coming with LMIA-backed job offers that can lead to a work permit or even permanent residency.
This guide will walk you through what the LMIA means, what warehouse jobs entail, how much you can earn, and how to apply for these opportunities legally from abroad.
Table of Contents
What Is an LMIA-Supported Job?
An LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) is a document that a Canadian employer obtains from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). It demonstrates that there are no Canadian citizens or permanent residents available to fill the job, indicating that the employer requires a foreign worker.
Once the LMIA is approved, the employer can legally hire an international applicant, who then uses the LMIA letter to apply for a work permit.
Why Warehouse Jobs Are in Demand
Canada’s warehousing and logistics sectors are booming due to:
- Rapid growth of e-commerce (Amazon, Walmart, Shopify sellers)
- Labor shortages in rural and industrial zones
- Expansion of logistics hubs across Alberta, Ontario, Manitoba, and British Columbia
- An aging Canadian workforce in physically demanding jobs
Warehouse employers are now offering competitive wages, shift bonuses, and LMIA sponsorship to attract global talent.
Typical Warehouse Roles Open to Foreign Workers
Many of these positions require no advanced education but do require physical strength and reliability. In 2025, the most common warehouse jobs with LMIA support include:
- Order Pickers
- Forklift Operators
- Material Handlers
- Inventory Clerks
- Shipping/Receiving Associates
- General Laborers
- Packing Line Workers
- Warehouse Supervisors (for experienced workers)
Salary Expectations in 2025
Warehouse wages vary by province, role, and employer. Here’s the average wage range:
- Entry-Level: $16–$18 per hour
- Forklift Operators: $18–$21 per hour
- Overtime Pay: Often 1.5x after 40 hours
- Annual Income Potential: $34,000–$45,000
- Shift Bonuses: Night shifts may include $1–$2/hr extra
Some employers also provide free uniforms, transit allowances, or subsidized housing.
Who Can Apply?
These roles are open to both:
- Temporary Foreign Workers (TFWs) seeking LMIA-based work permits
- Visitors or students already in Canada looking to transition to work
- International applicants applying from countries with bilateral job programs
Basic Requirements
- Must be 18+ years old
- Physically fit for repetitive tasks (lifting, standing, etc.)
- Willing to work day/night shifts or weekends
- Basic English (IELTS not always required but helpful)
- Clean criminal background
- Valid passport
- Willing to relocate to regional areas
Countries Commonly Recruited
Canadian employers often recruit warehouse workers from:
- Philippines
- India
- Nigeria
- Jamaica
- Mexico
- Kenya
- Nepal
- Ghana
- Vietnam
Some employers use government-approved international recruiters or job fairs. It’s essential to work only with licensed recruiters.
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Steps to Get a Warehouse Job in Canada with LMIA
Step 1: Find an Employer with LMIA Approval
Only employers with a positive LMIA can legally sponsor foreign workers. Look for this information in job ads or verify it directly with the employer.
Step 2: Submit Your Resume
Include details such as:
- Prior warehouse or labor experience
- Availability for shift work
- Forklift license (if applicable)
- Language skills and physical fitness
Step 3: Interview & Job Offer
Employers may conduct virtual interviews via Zoom or Skype. Once selected, they issue a Job Offer Letter and a copy of the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
Step 4: Apply for Your Canadian Work Permit
Use the LMIA and job offer to apply online via the IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) portal.
Documents needed:
- Valid passport
- LMIA letter and job contract
- Proof of experience or CV
- Police clearance
- Medical exam (may be required)
Where to Find LMIA Warehouse Jobs
Verified Sources
- JobBank.gc.ca – Official government portal (filtered by LMIA)
- Indeed.ca – Use keywords like “LMIA warehouse.”
- Workopolis.com – Jobs from large logistics firms
- Canada.ca (IRCC) – For immigration steps
- Recruitment Agencies (approved):
- Bison Transport
- Maple Leaf Foods
- Randstad Canada
- Drake International
- Motion Recruitment
Benefits of Warehouse Jobs with LMIA
- Legal pathway to Canada with a work visa
- Earn $34K–$45K/year with no degree required
- Opportunity to transition to PR via Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs (after 1–2 years of work)
- Access to healthcare and employee benefits
- Reliable schedule and job security
- Potential to bring spouse and children (in some cases)
Common Challenges
- Physical workload: Heavy lifting and long hours
- Cold climates: Especially in winter months (indoor gear provided)
- Regional locations: Jobs may be far from major cities
- Scams: Avoid fake LMIA offers and illegal recruiters
- Limited growth: Entry-level roles may not lead to quick promotions
However, the experience and income make it a worthwhile entry point into Canada for many workers.
Bottom Line
If you’re seeking a stable and honest job in Canada with earnings of $16–$22/hour, warehouse roles backed by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) offer a promising path in 2025. With low barriers to entry and increasing demand, this is one of the most practical ways to start a new life abroad, gain international work experience, and potentially secure permanent residency in the future.
