Labour Market Testing (LMT) is a mandatory requirement for many employer-sponsored visa programs. Its purpose is to confirm that an employer has made genuine efforts to recruit local workers before sponsoring a foreign employee. Despite its importance, visa refusals frequently occur due to avoidable LMT errors.
Understanding common mistakes—and how to prevent them—can significantly improve visa approval outcomes.
1. Using Unapproved Advertising Platforms
The Mistake
Employers sometimes advertise roles on platforms that are not approved by immigration authorities or fail to meet regulatory standards.
How to Avoid It
Use only government-approved or officially recognized job platforms
Confirm platform eligibility before advertising
Keep proof of where and when ads were posted
2. Advertising for an Insufficient Duration
The Mistake
Running job advertisements for fewer days than required under visa regulations.
How to Avoid It
Check minimum advertising periods (e.g., 14–28 days)
Ensure ads run continuously without interruption
Keep screenshots showing start and end dates
3. Incomplete or Non-Compliant Job Advertisements
The Mistake
Job ads missing critical details such as duties, skills, or salary information.
How to Avoid It
Clearly state job title and core responsibilities
Include required qualifications and experience
Disclose salary or salary range where required
4. Misalignment Between Job Ad and Visa Nomination
The Mistake
Differences between the job advertised and the role described in the visa nomination.
How to Avoid It
Ensure job title and duties match across all documents
Align job description with official occupation lists
Review consistency before submission
5. Unjustified Rejection of Local Candidates
The Mistake
Rejecting local applicants without valid or documented reasons.
How to Avoid It
Assess all applicants fairly
Document reasons for rejection clearly
Base decisions on skills, qualifications, and experience
6. Poor Record-Keeping and Documentation
The Mistake
Failing to maintain proper evidence of recruitment efforts.
How to Avoid It
Save copies of advertisements
Keep applicant lists and assessment notes
Prepare a structured LMT report
7. Inflated or Unrealistic Job Requirements
The Mistake
Setting overly specific or excessive requirements to discourage local applicants.
How to Avoid It
Use industry-standard qualifications and experience
Avoid unnecessary certifications or niche requirements
Ensure role requirements are reasonable and genuine
8. Ignoring Salary Market Benchmarks
The Mistake
Offering a salary below market rates or inconsistent with the advertised role.
How to Avoid It
Conduct a market salary assessment
Ensure pay meets visa and industry standards
Align salary with job level and responsibilities
9. Late or Incorrect LMT Submission
The Mistake
Submitting LMT evidence after visa lodgement or in an incomplete format.
How to Avoid It
Complete LMT before submitting nomination applications
Review submission checklists carefully
Ensure all supporting documents are included
Conclusion
Labour Market Testing errors are one of the leading causes of employer-sponsored visa refusals. Most mistakes stem from poor preparation, incomplete documentation, or misunderstanding regulatory requirements. By following compliant advertising practices, maintaining accurate records, and ensuring transparency in recruitment, employers can avoid common LMT pitfalls and strengthen their visa applications.