Canada has announced significant changes to its Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) aimed at aligning with evolving labour market conditions. Immigration Minister Marc Miller and Employment Minister Randy Boissonnault unveiled these adjustments, signaling a shift away from pandemic-era measures.
With the gap between unemployment and job vacancies narrowing, the government has deemed certain temporary measures unnecessary. As a result, the validity period of Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIA) will revert to 6 months from May 1st, 2024, after being extended to 12 months during the pandemic.
Additionally, the cap on low-wage TFWP workers, temporarily raised to 30% for select sectors in 2022, will now apply only to the construction and health care industries. Other sectors will return to the 20% limit, except for agriculture and seasonal employers, which remain exempt.
These adjustments reflect Canada’s commitment to strengthening the integrity of its immigration system while addressing labour market needs. Minister Miller highlighted the country’s aim to reduce its temporary resident population to 5% over the next three years, ensuring a well-managed and sustainable immigration system that supports newcomers’ success.
As Canada navigates these changes, the focus remains on fostering a dynamic and responsive immigration framework that benefits both the economy and newcomers alike.