The government of Canada has announced the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) Workforce Solutions Road Map, which aims to improve the TFWP for both employers and foreign workers.¹
The government is focused on helping employers build a strong, resilient workforce in all sectors. In February 2022, Canada added 337,000 jobs.2 However, as Canada’s economy recovers from a global pandemic, employers are being challenged to attract talent to match the pace of Canada’s economic recovery.
The newly announced changes, some effective immediately and others by April 30, could significantly increase employer flexibility in meeting business needs by lengthening the duration of some work permits, improving worker access to permanent residency, and expanding the number of low-wage positions in certain industries.
As part of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program Workforce Solutions Road Map (“the road map”), Canada will implement five key policy changes in the coming weeks to address labour shortages, enhance worker protection, and build a stronger workforce.
In the April 4 announcement, the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability Inclusion noted, “As the needs of Canada’s workforce change, we are adjusting the Temporary Foreign Worker Program to meet them. Our Workforce Solutions Road Map builds on our progress so far to renew, modernize, and improve this program for employers and workers alike.”3
Effective immediately, the roadmap aims to foster the following:
Effective April 30, 2022:
In order to help employers across the country to hire foreign workers in a timely manner, Service Canada has also recently implemented a series of measures to increase capacity and expedite the processing of LMIA applications by improving service standards and increasing staffing resources across all regions.
Key Considerations
Individuals who have questions or concerns about the new measures are encouraged to contact KPMG Law LLP for further guidance.
1 See the Employment and Social Development Canada April 4 release: “Government of Canada announces Workforce Solutions Road Map – further changes to the Temporary Foreign Worker Program to address labour shortages across Canada.”
2 Ibid.
3 Ibid.
* Please note that KPMG LLP (U.S.) does not provide any immigration services. However, KPMG Law LLP in Canada can assist clients with U.S. immigration matters.
The information contained in this newsletter was submitted by the KPMG International member firm in Canada.
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