List of 6 LMIA Approved Companies in New Brunswick Recruiting Foreign Workers (2025)
Imagine landing a stable job in Canada with full employer support, visa sponsorship, and a pathway to permanent residency—all within one of the country's most welcoming provinces. For thousands of foreign workers in 2025, New Brunswick Recruiting Foreign Workers through the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) program has turned this dream into reality. With critical labor shortages across multiple sectors, New Brunswick employers are actively seeking skilled international talent to fill essential roles that keep the province's economy thriving.
The province's strategic location, affordable cost of living, and family-friendly communities make it an attractive destination for newcomers. Unlike Canada's larger cities where competition is fierce and living costs soar, New Brunswick offers a balanced lifestyle with genuine opportunities for career growth and community integration. This comprehensive guide reveals six LMIA-approved companies currently hiring foreign workers, complete with salary ranges, job requirements, and application strategies that can help you secure your Canadian work permit in 2025.
Key Takeaways
- Six major employers in New Brunswick hold valid LMIA approvals and actively recruit foreign workers across food processing, aquaculture, forestry, manufacturing, healthcare, and hospitality sectors
- Salary ranges vary from $18-$25 CAD per hour for entry-level positions to $50,000-$70,000 CAD annually for skilled trades and professional roles
- The LMIA process validates that hiring foreign workers won't negatively impact Canadian workers and serves as your gateway to a work permit
- Settlement funds of approximately $13,000 CAD for a single applicant are recommended, though not always mandatory with employer support
- Permanent residency pathways through the Atlantic Immigration Program and Provincial Nominee Program make New Brunswick an excellent long-term choice
Understanding LMIA and New Brunswick Recruiting Foreign Workers
What is an LMIA?
A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a document that Canadian employers must obtain before hiring foreign workers. It proves that no qualified Canadian citizen or permanent resident is available to fill the position. When an employer receives a positive LMIA, it demonstrates that hiring a foreign worker will have a neutral or positive effect on Canada's labor market[1].
The LMIA serves as the foundation for your work permit application. Without it, most foreign workers cannot legally work in Canada. Think of it as your employer's commitment letter—proving they need your skills and are willing to navigate government processes to bring you onboard.
Why New Brunswick?
New Brunswick faces significant demographic challenges, with an aging population and youth outmigration creating critical workforce gaps. The province has responded by becoming one of Canada's most proactive regions for New Brunswick Recruiting Foreign Workers initiatives[2].
Key advantages include:
- 🏡 Affordable housing compared to Toronto, Vancouver, or Montreal
- 👨👩👧👦 Family-friendly communities with excellent schools
- 🌊 Natural beauty with ocean access and four distinct seasons
- 🚀 Fast-track immigration through provincial programs
- 💼 Growing economy in traditional and emerging sectors
Similar to opportunities for skilled workers relocating to the UK with their families, New Brunswick offers comprehensive support for international workers and their dependents.
The New Brunswick Critical Worker Pilot Explained
The New Brunswick Critical Worker Pilot represents a targeted approach to addressing labor shortages in specific industries. Launched to complement the broader Atlantic Immigration Program, this initiative focuses on occupations that are essential to the province's economic stability but struggle to attract sufficient local talent[3].
Program Highlights
Eligible Occupations:
- Food processing workers
- Truck drivers and heavy equipment operators
- Healthcare support workers
- Hospitality and tourism staff
- Construction laborers
- Manufacturing technicians
Requirements:
- Valid job offer from a designated employer
- Meet minimum language requirements (CLB 4 in English or French)
- Relevant work experience or education
- Commitment to settle in New Brunswick
The pilot program streamlines the immigration process, reducing processing times from 12-18 months to as little as 6-8 months for qualified candidates. Employers participating in this program receive additional support from provincial settlement agencies, ensuring successful integration for new workers.
For those exploring multiple immigration pathways, the Canada Job Seeker Visa in 2026 offers another avenue worth investigating.
Designated Employers Hiring Now: LMIA Approved Companies
1. McCain Foods (Food Processing) 💼
Industry: Food Manufacturing
Locations: Florenceville-Bristol, Grand Falls
Salary Range: $18 – $24 CAD/hour
McCain Foods, the world's largest producer of frozen potato products, operates multiple facilities in New Brunswick. The company regularly hires foreign workers for production line positions, quality control, and warehouse operations.
Common Positions:
- Production line operators
- Packaging technicians
- Machine operators
- Quality assurance staff
- Forklift operators
Requirements:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Ability to work in cold environments
- Physical stamina for standing 8-10 hour shifts
- Basic English communication skills
Benefits Package:
- Health and dental insurance
- Retirement savings plan
- Paid vacation and sick leave
- On-site training programs
- Shift premiums for nights and weekends
McCain Foods has a proven track record of supporting foreign workers through the LMIA process and assisting with permanent residency applications after one year of employment.
2. Cooke Aquaculture (Fish Farming) 🐟
Industry: Aquaculture
Locations: Blacks Harbour, St. George, various coastal sites
Salary Range: $19 – $25 CAD/hour
Cooke Aquaculture stands as one of the world's leading seafood companies, with extensive operations throughout New Brunswick's coastal regions. The company's commitment to New Brunswick Recruiting Foreign Workers has made it a major employer of international talent.
Available Roles:
- Fish farm technicians
- Harvest crew members
- Processing plant workers
- Maintenance technicians
- Feed barge operators
Qualifications:
- Experience in agriculture, fishing, or related fields (preferred)
- Comfortable working on water and in marine environments
- Valid driver's license (for some positions)
- Willingness to work outdoors in various weather conditions
Company Support:
- Comprehensive safety training
- Marine emergency response certification
- Accommodation assistance for newcomers
- Transportation to remote work sites
- Career advancement opportunities
The aquaculture sector offers unique opportunities for workers interested in sustainable food production and marine industries, with pathways similar to those found in welding jobs with visa sponsorship in New Zealand.
3. J.D. Irving Limited (Forestry, Manufacturing & Transportation) 🌲
Industry: Diversified (Forestry, Construction, Transportation, Retail)
Locations: Saint John, Moncton, various rural locations
Salary Range: $50,000 – $70,000 CAD/year
J.D. Irving Limited represents one of Canada's largest privately-owned conglomerates, with operations spanning forestry, shipbuilding, transportation, and retail. The company's size and diversity create numerous opportunities for skilled foreign workers.
Key Positions:
- Heavy equipment operators
- Truck drivers (Class 1 license required)
- Millwrights and industrial mechanics
- Welders and fabricators
- Logistics coordinators
- Forestry technicians
Essential Qualifications:
- Trade certification or equivalent experience
- Clean driving abstract (for transportation roles)
- Mechanical aptitude
- Safety-conscious mindset
- Ability to work independently
Employee Benefits:
- Competitive salaries above provincial averages
- Comprehensive health benefits
- Pension plan contributions
- Professional development and training
- Relocation assistance for qualified candidates
J.D. Irving's commitment to workforce development includes apprenticeship programs and skills upgrading, making it an excellent choice for workers seeking long-term career growth. Those with specialized skills might also explore electrician jobs in Canada with free visa sponsorship.
4. Atlantic Beef Products (Meat Processing) 🥩
Industry: Meat Processing
Location: Albany, near Moncton
Salary Range: $17 – $22 CAD/hour
Atlantic Beef Products operates one of Atlantic Canada's largest beef processing facilities, employing hundreds of workers in various production roles. The company maintains an active LMIA program for foreign workers.
Job Opportunities:
- Meat cutters and trimmers
- Production line workers
- Sanitation staff
- Shipping and receiving clerks
- Maintenance workers
Requirements:
- Physical ability to lift up to 50 lbs regularly
- Comfort working in refrigerated environments
- Attention to detail and food safety protocols
- Team-oriented work ethic
What They Offer:
- Stable year-round employment
- Overtime opportunities
- Free safety equipment and uniforms
- On-the-job training
- Immigration support services
5. Horizon Health Network (Healthcare Support) 🏥
Industry: Healthcare
Locations: Fredericton, Moncton, Saint John
Salary Range: $20 – $28 CAD/hour (support roles); $60,000 – $90,000 CAD/year (professional roles)
New Brunswick's healthcare system actively recruits foreign-trained healthcare professionals and support workers to address critical staffing shortages. Horizon Health Network, the province's largest healthcare provider, sponsors qualified international candidates.
In-Demand Positions:
- Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs)
- Personal Support Workers
- Medical laboratory technologists
- Respiratory therapists
- Diagnostic imaging technologists
- Healthcare aides
Credentials Required:
- Recognition of foreign credentials through provincial regulatory bodies
- Language proficiency (CLB 7 or higher for regulated professions)
- Current certifications in your field
- Criminal background check
Support Services:
- Credential recognition assistance
- Language training programs
- Mentorship from established healthcare professionals
- Pathway to permanent residency through healthcare streams
Healthcare workers may find similar opportunities in caregiver jobs in Canada with visa sponsorship, which offer comparable immigration pathways.
6. Hospitality Sector Employers (Tourism & Hotels) 🏨
Industry: Hospitality and Tourism
Locations: Moncton, Saint John, Fredericton, tourist regions
Salary Range: $15 – $20 CAD/hour (entry-level); $35,000 – $55,000 CAD/year (management)
Multiple hotels, resorts, and restaurants throughout New Brunswick hold LMIA approvals for foreign workers. Key employers include Delta Hotels, Hilton properties, and various independent establishments.
Common Roles:
- Front desk agents
- Housekeeping supervisors
- Restaurant servers and cooks
- Kitchen helpers
- Maintenance staff
- Event coordinators
Typical Requirements:
- Previous hospitality experience (1-2 years)
- Customer service orientation
- Flexibility with schedules (including weekends and holidays)
- Food safety certification (for kitchen positions)
Industry Benefits:
- Tips and gratuities supplementing base wages
- Flexible scheduling options
- Opportunities for seasonal workers to transition to permanent positions
- Training in Canadian hospitality standards
Those interested in hospitality might also consider hotel jobs with visa sponsorship in the UAE for international experience.
Understanding the LMIA Process for New Brunswick Recruiting Foreign Workers
Step-by-Step LMIA Application
For Employers:
-
Recruitment Efforts: Employers must demonstrate they've attempted to hire Canadians through job postings, recruitment agencies, and job fairs for at least four weeks[4].
-
LMIA Application Submission: Complete forms and pay the $1,000 CAD processing fee per position.
-
Government Assessment: Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) reviews the application, typically within 10-12 weeks.
-
Decision: If approved, the employer receives a positive LMIA and can extend a formal job offer.
For Foreign Workers:
-
Receive Job Offer: Obtain a written job offer and copy of the positive LMIA from your employer.
-
Gather Documents: Prepare passport, educational credentials, work experience letters, and language test results.
-
Apply for Work Permit: Submit your application online or at a visa office, including the LMIA number.
-
Biometrics and Medical Exam: Complete required biometrics and medical examination.
-
Receive Decision: Processing times vary by country but typically range from 2-8 weeks.
What to Do If Your Work Permit is Refused ⚠️
Work permit refusals can be devastating, but they're not always final. Common reasons include:
- Insufficient documentation of qualifications or work experience
- Concerns about intent to return to home country after permit expires
- Medical inadmissibility or security concerns
- Incomplete application or missing supporting documents
Immediate Actions:
- Review the refusal letter carefully to understand specific grounds for rejection
- Consult an immigration lawyer experienced in Canadian work permits
- Address deficiencies identified in the refusal
- Consider reapplication with strengthened documentation
- Explore alternative pathways such as study permits or visitor records
Legal Support Options:
Working with a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) or immigration lawyer can significantly improve your chances of success. These professionals understand the nuances of New Brunswick Recruiting Foreign Workers programs and can:
- Review your application before submission
- Prepare strong letters of explanation
- Represent you in appeals or reconsiderations
- Advise on alternative immigration pathways
Many workers who face initial setbacks eventually succeed with proper guidance. The key is not to give up and to seek professional assistance when needed.
Settlement Funds & Banking in Canada for New Brunswick Workers
Proof of Funds Requirements 💰
While employer-supported work permit applicants typically don't face strict proof of funds requirements, having adequate settlement funds demonstrates financial stability and eases your transition to Canadian life.
Recommended Settlement Funds (2025):
| Family Size | Recommended Amount (CAD) |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $13,310 |
| 2 people | $16,570 |
| 3 people | $20,371 |
| 4 people | $24,733 |
| 5 people | $28,052 |
| 6 people | $31,638 |
| 7+ people | $35,224+ |
These amounts cover initial expenses such as:
- First and last month's rent
- Furniture and household items
- Winter clothing and boots
- Transportation costs
- Food and groceries until first paycheck
- Unexpected emergencies
Important: Your employer may provide some of these items, reducing your actual needs. Always clarify what support your employer offers before arrival.
Banking Solutions for Newcomers
Establishing banking relationships before or immediately upon arrival in Canada simplifies your financial transition. Canadian banks offer specialized programs for immigrants and foreign workers.
Scotiabank StartRight Program 🏦
The Scotiabank StartRight Program specifically serves newcomers to Canada, offering:
- No-fee banking for one year on select accounts
- Credit card options without Canadian credit history
- Foreign currency accounts to manage money from your home country
- Dedicated newcomer advisors who understand immigration challenges
- Mortgage pre-qualification for future home purchases
How to Apply:
- Visit a Scotiabank branch with your work permit and passport
- Provide proof of address in New Brunswick
- Make initial deposit (often as low as $100)
- Receive debit card and online banking access immediately
Other Newcomer-Friendly Banks
TD Bank – New to Canada Banking Package:
- Waived monthly fees for one year
- Free international money transfers
- Credit card with no credit history required
RBC – Welcome to Canada Package:
- No monthly fees for 12 months
- Free safety deposit box
- Multilingual banking services
BMO – NewStart Program:
- Waived account fees
- No-fee credit card
- Foreign exchange services
Building Your Canadian Credit Score 📊
Your credit history doesn't transfer to Canada, meaning you'll start with no credit score. Building credit is essential for future financial goals like car loans, mortgages, or rental applications.
Strategies to Build Credit:
-
Secured Credit Card: Deposit $500-$1,000 as collateral to receive a credit card with matching limit. Use it regularly and pay in full monthly.
-
Credit Builder Loans: Some credit unions offer small loans specifically designed to help newcomers establish credit history.
-
Become an Authorized User: If you have friends or family in Canada, being added as an authorized user on their credit card can help build your score.
-
Pay All Bills On Time: Rent, utilities, and phone bills contribute to your credit profile when paid consistently.
-
Keep Credit Utilization Low: Use less than 30% of your available credit limit.
Timeline Expectations:
- 3-6 months: Basic credit file established
- 6-12 months: Credit score becomes usable for some applications
- 12-24 months: Strong credit history for major purchases
For those pursuing educational opportunities alongside work, exploring fully funded masters scholarships in Canada can complement your career development.
Application Strategies and Success Tips
Crafting Your Application
Resume Best Practices:
- Use Canadian resume format (no photos, minimal personal information)
- Highlight relevant experience with quantifiable achievements
- Include any certifications or trade qualifications
- Emphasize soft skills like teamwork and communication
- Keep to 1-2 pages maximum
Cover Letter Essentials:
- Address specific job requirements mentioned in posting
- Explain your interest in New Brunswick specifically
- Demonstrate knowledge of the company
- Express long-term commitment to Canada
- Mention any connections to the province
Direct Application Methods
Company Websites:
Most LMIA-approved employers post positions on their career pages. Check regularly and apply directly through their systems.
Job Boards:
- Job Bank Canada (government-operated)
- Indeed Canada
- Workopolis
Recruitment Agencies:
Some agencies specialize in New Brunswick Recruiting Foreign Workers and maintain relationships with LMIA-approved employers:
- Randstad Canada
- Adecco
- Drake International
Networking:
Join online communities of New Brunswick immigrants and foreign workers. Facebook groups and LinkedIn networks often share job leads and employer experiences.
Red Flags to Avoid 🚩
Warning Signs of Fraudulent Employers:
- Requests for payment to secure a job offer
- Promises of guaranteed LMIA approval
- Unprofessional communication or vague job descriptions
- No verifiable company information or website
- Pressure to make quick decisions
Verification Steps:
- Research company legitimacy through Better Business Bureau
- Verify LMIA approval status (employers should provide LMIA number)
- Contact the company directly through official channels
- Consult immigration lawyers if anything seems suspicious
For those exploring opportunities in other countries, construction jobs in Australia with free visa sponsorship offer similar pathways worth comparing.
Pathways to Permanent Residency
One of the greatest advantages of New Brunswick Recruiting Foreign Workers programs is the clear pathway to permanent residency. After working in the province for one year, several immigration streams become available.
Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
The Atlantic Immigration Program offers the fastest route to permanent residency for workers in Atlantic Canada, including New Brunswick.
Requirements:
- Minimum one year of work experience in New Brunswick
- Valid job offer from designated employer
- Language proficiency (CLB 4 minimum)
- Completed Canadian high school or equivalent
- Settlement plan and provincial endorsement
Processing Time: 6-12 months from application to permanent residency
Benefits:
- No Express Entry profile required
- Lower language requirements than federal programs
- Employer support throughout process
- Family members included in application
New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP)
The NBPNP offers multiple streams for workers already employed in the province:
Skilled Worker Stream:
- Permanent, full-time job offer
- CLB 5 language proficiency
- Post-secondary education or equivalent work experience
- Intention to live in New Brunswick permanently
Critical Worker Pilot:
- Job offer in eligible occupation
- CLB 4 language proficiency
- High school education or equivalent
- One year work experience in New Brunswick
Processing Time: 8-14 months
Express Entry New Brunswick Stream
For highly skilled workers, the Express Entry New Brunswick stream provides nomination for additional 600 points toward federal Express Entry.
Eligibility:
- Active Express Entry profile
- Valid job offer or work experience in New Brunswick
- CLB 7 language proficiency
- Connection to New Brunswick (work, study, or family)
This pathway suits professionals in technology, healthcare, and engineering fields who meet federal skilled worker requirements.
Living in New Brunswick: What to Expect
Cost of Living Comparison
New Brunswick offers one of Canada's most affordable costs of living, making your salary stretch further than in major cities.
Average Monthly Expenses (Single Person):
| Expense Category | Monthly Cost (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Rent (1-bedroom) | $800 – $1,200 |
| Utilities | $100 – $150 |
| Groceries | $300 – $400 |
| Transportation | $80 – $150 |
| Internet/Phone | $100 – $150 |
| Entertainment | $100 – $200 |
| Total | $1,480 – $2,250 |
Climate and Geography 🌦️
New Brunswick experiences four distinct seasons:
- Summer (June-August): Warm, 20-28°C, ideal for outdoor activities
- Fall (September-November): Cool, colorful foliage, 5-15°C
- Winter (December-March): Cold, snowy, -10 to -5°C
- Spring (April-May): Mild, rainy, 5-15°C
Preparation Tips:
- Invest in quality winter clothing (coat, boots, gloves)
- Learn winter driving skills if you'll be operating a vehicle
- Embrace seasonal activities (skiing, snowshoeing, ice fishing)
Community and Integration
New Brunswick's smaller cities offer tight-knit communities where newcomers often find it easier to integrate than in larger metropolitan areas.
Settlement Services:
- MAGMA (Multicultural Association of Greater Moncton Area)
- Saint John Newcomers Centre
- Fredericton Multicultural Association
These organizations provide:
- Language classes (English and French)
- Job search assistance
- Cultural orientation
- Social events and networking
- Youth and family programs
For those considering multiple destinations, reviewing top countries to relocate without IELTS in 2026 provides broader perspective on global opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I bring my family on a work permit?
A: Yes, your spouse or common-law partner may be eligible for an open work permit, and dependent children can attend school. Family members must apply for their own permits but can submit applications together with yours.
Q: How long does the LMIA process take?
A: LMIA processing typically takes 10-12 weeks for standard applications. Expedited processing (10 business days) is available for certain occupations and circumstances, though it costs additional fees.
Q: Do I need to speak French to work in New Brunswick?
A: Not necessarily. While New Brunswick is Canada's only officially bilingual province, most employers in the positions listed require only English. However, French language skills can be advantageous and may help with permanent residency applications.
Q: What happens if I lose my job while on a work permit?
A: You have a 90-day grace period to find new employment or change your status. Contact an immigration consultant immediately to explore options, which may include finding another LMIA-approved employer or applying for a different permit type.
Q: Are there age limits for work permit applications?
A: No, there are no age limits for work permits. However, younger applicants may have advantages in permanent residency applications through programs that award points for age.
Conclusion: Your Path Forward with New Brunswick Recruiting Foreign Workers
New Brunswick's commitment to recruiting foreign workers through LMIA-approved employers represents a genuine opportunity for international workers seeking Canadian permanent residency. The six companies highlighted—McCain Foods, Cooke Aquaculture, J.D. Irving, Atlantic Beef Products, Horizon Health Network, and various hospitality employers—offer legitimate pathways with competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, and immigration support.
Your Action Plan:
- Research employers that match your skills and experience from the list above
- Prepare professional application materials tailored to Canadian standards
- Gather necessary documents including educational credentials, work references, and language test results
- Apply directly through company websites or reputable recruitment agencies
- Establish banking relationships using newcomer programs like Scotiabank StartRight
- Plan your settlement funds ensuring you have $13,000-$20,000 CAD available
- Connect with settlement services before arrival to ease your transition
- Begin building your credit immediately upon arrival to establish financial foundation
The journey from foreign worker to Canadian permanent resident requires patience, persistence, and preparation. New Brunswick's welcoming communities, affordable lifestyle, and clear immigration pathways make it an ideal destination for workers ready to build a new life in Canada.
Don't let this opportunity pass—research these employers today, polish your resume, and take the first step toward your Canadian dream. The province's labor shortages mean employers are actively seeking qualified candidates right now. Your skills are needed, your contributions will be valued, and your future in Canada can begin in New Brunswick.
For additional opportunities, explore related pathways such as truck driver jobs with visa sponsorship in Canada or consider educational advancement through STEM scholarships in the USA to enhance your qualifications.
References
[1] Employment and Social Development Canada. (2024). "Labour Market Impact Assessment Program." Government of Canada Official Website. [2] Government of New Brunswick. (2024). "Population Growth Strategy 2024-2028." Department of Post-Secondary Education, Training and Labour. [3] Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada. (2024). "Atlantic Immigration Program." IRCC Official Documentation. [4] Service Canada. (2024). "LMIA Application Requirements and Processing Standards." Employment and Social Development Canada.SEO Meta Title and Description
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