Canada is actively encouraging global talent to move to its shores through various immigration pathways, one of which is the LMIA-exempt work permit. In 2024, the Canadian government, under the Innovation Stream, identified six tech-driven companies eligible to hire foreign workers without needing a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). This exemption not only speeds up the hiring process but also strengthens Canada’s growing tech sector.
Let’s dive into these companies and explore how they fit into Canada’s tech growth, what they offer, and why they are a gateway for skilled foreign nationals seeking a work permit in Canada.
What is the Innovation Stream?
Earlier this year, the Innovation Stream was introduced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) as part of Canada’s broader Tech Talent Strategy. The strategy aims to boost the country’s economy by attracting skilled foreign workers. The Innovation Stream specifically supports Canadian companies that are industry leaders, offering innovative solutions in their respective fields.
Through the Global Hypergrowth Project (GHP), selected companies can hire foreign talent via LMIA-exempt work permits, allowing them to bring in global expertise faster and without the bureaucratic hurdles of a traditional LMIA process.
How Do LMIA-Exempt Work Permits Benefit Workers?
Before diving into the companies, it’s crucial to understand the benefits that LMIA-exempt work permits provide to foreign nationals:
- Faster Processing: The lack of an LMIA requirement shortens processing times, enabling quicker relocation to Canada.
- Job Security: Since these companies are recognized by the government, workers often experience higher job stability.
- Tailored Benefits: Many of these tech companies offer perks such as flexible work arrangements, health benefits, and growth opportunities.
Six Companies Hiring with LMIA-Exempt Work Permits
Now, let’s explore the six companies currently hiring, their operations, and the benefits they provide to employees.
1. Ada Support Inc. (Toronto)
Founded in 2016, Ada Support Inc. is revolutionizing customer service by introducing AI-powered solutions. Based in Toronto, Ada operates globally, providing companies with automated tools that enhance customer experiences across various channels and languages.
Why Ada Support?
Ada offers flexibility, including remote work and a home office budget. Employees also enjoy stock options, unlimited vacation, and opportunities to work abroad. The company has a range of open positions in product development, operations, and customer experience.
Key Vacancies:
- HR Generalist (Toronto)
- Staff Software Engineer (Remote, Canada)
- Senior Technical Writer (Remote, Canada)
Ada’s focus on remote work and AI-driven solutions makes it a top choice for foreign nationals looking to work in the Canadian tech sector while enjoying flexibility.
2. AlayaCare (Montreal, Toronto)
Founded in 2014, AlayaCare uses cloud-based software to address challenges in the healthcare sector, particularly in home care. Headquartered in Montreal, AlayaCare has expanded its operations globally and is actively seeking skilled professionals for various roles in Toronto and Montreal.
Why AlayaCare?
Employees at AlayaCare enjoy benefits such as flexible schedules and the ability to work remotely. The company encourages innovation, with a focus on solving real-world healthcare problems through technology.
Key Vacancies:
- Bilingual Senior Technical Services Specialist (Montreal)
- Senior Developer (Scheduling, Montreal)
AlayaCare’s commitment to improving healthcare through tech innovation makes it an exciting option for foreign professionals looking for impactful work.
3. CellCarta (Montreal)
CellCarta is a Montreal-based biotech company focusing on research and technology that improves disease detection and therapy development. By identifying biomarkers, CellCarta enables more personalized treatment options for patients, making significant strides in the healthcare sector.
Why CellCarta?
CellCarta offers a specialized work environment where employees contribute directly to life-saving technologies. While they have limited vacancies in Canada, their global presence in countries like China and the US adds to their appeal for international workers.
Key Vacancies:
- Global Technology Architecture Manager (Montreal)
- Global Revenue Accounting Manager (Remote)
4. Clarius Mobile Health (Vancouver)
Founded in 2014 in British Columbia, Clarius Mobile Health aims to make healthcare more accessible by providing affordable ultrasound tools to medical professionals. The company is recognized for its positive workplace culture and offers various employee benefits, including professional development programs.
Why Clarius Mobile Health?
Clarius stands out for its employee-friendly policies, including hybrid work models, recognition programs, and regular team events.
Key Vacancies:
- Manufacturing Technician (Vancouver)
Clarius’s innovative healthcare tools and positive workplace culture make it an excellent destination for foreign nationals looking to enter Canada’s health-tech sector.
5. Clio (Burnaby, Toronto, Calgary)
Clio provides cloud-based legal management solutions that simplify law firm operations, from client intake to billing and payments. Headquartered in British Columbia, Clio is expanding rapidly and offers roles in multiple Canadian cities.
Why Clio?
Clio offers flexible paid time off, RRSP matching, parental leave, and a variety of health benefits, making it an attractive employer for foreign professionals. It also provides remote and hybrid work options for various positions.
Key Vacancies:
- Business Development Representative (Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto)
- Data Scientist (Remote, Canada)
Clio’s tech-driven approach to legal management and extensive benefits package make it a compelling choice for those seeking career growth in Canada’s legal-tech space.
6. Lightspeed Commerce (Montreal, Toronto, Ottawa)
Founded in 2005, Lightspeed Commerce provides businesses with a one-stop platform for simplifying and scaling operations. From inventory management to customer engagement, Lightspeed’s cloud-based services are crucial for businesses looking to grow.
Why Lightspeed Commerce?
Lightspeed offers employees comprehensive benefits such as flexible working conditions, remote work options, and a dynamic workplace environment. The company is hiring across multiple locations in Canada.
Key Vacancies:
- Senior Strategic Pricing Specialist (Montreal)
- Software Development Manager (Toronto)
Lightspeed’s commitment to fostering innovation in the commerce sector makes it a top choice for skilled foreign nationals looking to make an impact in tech.
Companies to Watch:
Vive Crop Protection (Mississauga) and Duchesnay Pharmaceutical Group (Montreal) are not currently hiring in Canada, but they are expected to have future openings. Both companies are pioneers in their respective fields—agriculture and pharmaceuticals—and remain key players in the Canadian tech landscape.
Conclusion:
Canada’s Tech Talent Strategy, specifically the Innovation Stream, opens exciting pathways for skilled foreign workers to gain employment with top companies without going through the lengthy LMIA process. These six companies not only offer high-growth potential but also provide diverse roles, flexibility, and innovative work environments. Whether you’re in tech, healthcare, or legal services, these LMIA-exempt work permits make Canada an attractive destination for global talent.