What document must an employer obtain to hire a foreign worker?

To hire a foreign worker in Canada, an employer must obtain a labor market opinion (LMO) or a favorable labor market impact assessment (LMIA). This document assesses the impact of hiring a foreign worker on the Canadian labor market and helps ensure that there is no qualified Canadian citizen or permanent resident available for the job.

Obtaining a labor market opinion or LMIA is an essential step in the process because it demonstrates the employer's compliance with Canadian immigration laws and labor regulations. This document is also a critical part of the work permit application process for the foreign worker, as it provides the necessary validation for why a foreign worker is needed in that position.

The other options do not fulfill the requirement for hiring a foreign worker. An employment insurance number is related to employment benefits and not specific to the hiring process for foreign workers. A work contract outlines the terms of employment but does not address the regulatory compliance needed to employ a foreign worker. A certificate of candidate does not exist as a standard requirement in this context. Thus, the labor market opinion is key for legal employment of foreign workers in Canada.