Phase 2 of the Recognized Employer Pilot Program (REP) is now open, offering faster and more streamlined processes for hiring temporary foreign workers (TFWs) in crucial roles.
What is the REP?
The Recognized Employer Pilot program, launched last September, offers a new approach to how Canadian employers can engage temporary foreign workers. Initially targeting the agriculture sector, the program will later extend to all industries in January, 2024. Eligible employers with a strong history of compliance with program requirements will receive a three-year permit to bring in foreign workers without the need for frequent reapplications.
The REP is a pilot program designed to reward employers with a proven track record of compliance with the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). Qualifying businesses benefit from:
Longer LMIA validity: LMIAs (Labour Market Impact Assessments) typically expire after 18 months. REP-eligible employers receive LMIAs valid for up to 36 months, reducing administrative burdens and facilitating long-term workforce planning.
Simplified future applications: Once accepted into the REP, employers enjoy streamlined LMIA applications for future positions on the designated “in-shortage” list. This saves valuable time and resources.
Enhanced visibility: Participating businesses receive a Job Bank designation highlighting their REP status, attracting qualified TFW candidates.
Expanded occupations in Phase 2
Effective January 2024, phase 2 of Canada’s REP opens access to critical talent marking a significant expansion compared to its initial focus on agriculture. Over 80 in-demand occupations across various sectors, from tech and healthcare to construction and manufacturing, are now eligible for REP, opening doors for a wider range of Canadian businesses. This broader scope aligns with the country’s diverse economic needs and creates more opportunities for skilled foreign talent to contribute to Canada’s growth.
When hiring TFWs in Canada, understanding wage requirements is essential to avoid complications and comply with the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP).
Under the Recognized Employer Pilot (REP) program, you must pay the prevailing wage, which is the highest of two options:
Regional median hourly wage on Job Bank: This is a helpful resource to see what other employers are paying for similar positions.
Wage within your current employee range: If you have existing employees doing the same job, ensure the TFW wage falls within the range you pay them.
For jobs in primary agriculture, including programs like the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program, different rules apply. Wages must meet or exceed the rates outlined in the National Commodities List (NCL) wage tables, or applicable minimum wage rates, whichever is higher.
Job Bank: Your Wage Look-Up Tool
Finding the median wage on Job Bank is easy:
Visit “Compare wages on Job Bank.”
Enter the job title or National Occupational Classification (NOC) code that best describes the position.
The hourly median wage will be listed in the middle column, by community or area.
Additional Factors and Exceptions
Remember, if the TFW position requires more skills or experience than the typical NOC description, the wage should reflect that. Overtime, tips, and other forms of compensation don’t count towards the guaranteed wage used for assessment.
Hiring TFWs for unionized positions comes with specific obligations. You must offer the same wage rates and forms of compensation outlined in the collective agreement.
Certain industries have established, specific wage rates considered prevailing. Visit “Variations to the wage requirements” for details. Offering a wage below the prevailing rate can result in a negative Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
Wage Reviews: Staying Up-to-Date
For LMIA applications submitted after January 1, 2024, wage reviews are mandatory. This ensures TFWs receive the prevailing wage throughout their employment period, regardless of the initial LMIA wage. Review and update wages annually based on updated Job Bank information (by January 1st of the following year).
Failing to update wages according to the prevailing rate can lead to sanctions, including fines and even bans from the TFW Program. Remember, fair treatment extends beyond wages. TFWs are entitled to the same rights and protections as all Canadian workers. Ensure you:
Pay them for all work (including overtime)
Provide workplace safety insurance
Offer the same benefits as other workers
Respect their identification and documents
Quebec: A Different Wage Table
If you’re hiring TFWs in Quebec, consult the wage table provided by the Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI).
Seek Help: Navigating the Rules
Most provincial and territorial labor ministries provide information and resources for employers and TFWs. If you’re unsure about any aspect of TFW employment, don’t hesitate to reach out for guidance.
By following these guidelines and prioritizing fair treatment, you can ensure a positive and productive experience for both your business and your temporary foreign workers.
Conclusion: Staying Informed and Taking Action
For employers interested in REP, staying updated on eligible occupations and program details is crucial. Remember, responsible TFW practices remain the cornerstone of the program. By leveraging REP’s benefits and adhering to its ethical framework, Canadian businesses can unlock a wider talent pool and contribute to a thriving national workforce.
On October 31, 2023, the Canadian government announced a new immigration plan to improve the system and align it with the needs of the labour market. The plan also includes a focus on helping newcomers settle in Canada and creating a comprehensive and coordinated growth strategy.
The new plan is a sign of the government’s commitment to welcoming immigrants and building a strong and diverse society. It includes a number of important initiatives to improve the immigration system, align immigration with the needs of the labour market, and help newcomers settle in Canada.
Main points
Modernize the immigration system with digital platforms. This will include creating a single online window into immigration programs, improving automation, and enabling digital self-service.
Align immigration with labour market requirements. IRCC will identify the essential talents that Canada needs, the newcomers who have these skills, and how to best connect them to available positions. The government will also make it easier for international students and temporary workers with in-demand skills to stay in Canada.
Help newcomers settle in Canada. The government will investigate further alternatives for developing an integrated strategy to manage housing, health care, and infrastructure across federal government departments, as well as in close partnership with provinces, territories, and municipalities.
Modernize the Immigration System with Digital Platforms
One of the key goals of the new plan is to modernize the immigration system with digital platforms. This will include creating a single online window into immigration programs, improving automation, and enabling digital self-service.
The government expects that these changes will expedite application processing, increase program integrity, and make the immigration process more transparent and human-centered.
Align Immigration with Labour Market Requirements
The new immigration plan also emphasizes the need to align immigration with Canada’s labour market requirements. To do this, IRCC will identify the essential talents that Canada needs, the newcomers who have these skills, and how to best connect them to available positions.
Help Newcomers Settle in Canada and Create a Comprehensive and Coordinated Growth Strategy
In addition to attracting top talent, the new immigration plan also focuses on helping newcomers settle in Canada and creating a comprehensive and coordinated growth strategy. This includes things like housing and healthcare.
The government recognizes that some newcomers leave Canada due to difficulties with housing and getting their international credentials recognized. To address these issues, IRCC will investigate further alternatives for developing an integrated strategy to manage housing, health care, and infrastructure across federal government departments, as well as in close partnership with provinces, territories, and municipalities.
What could this announcement be?
The Canadian government is expected to announce the new immigration levels plan 2024-2026 on November 1. It is possible that the immigration minister could also announce improvements to the Canadian immigration system in response to the recommendations of the Office of the Auditor General.
Conclusion
The new Canada immigration plan is a sign of the government’s commitment to welcoming immigrants and building a strong and diverse society. The plan includes a number of important initiatives to improve the immigration system, align immigration with the needs of the labour market, and help newcomers settle in Canada.
How can CanAm help you?
We are a team of experienced immigration consultants who can help you with all aspects of the immigration process. We can help you choose the right immigration program for your needs, prepare your application, and answer any questions you may have.
We understand that the immigration process can be complex and daunting. That’s why we’re here to help you every step of the way. We’ll work with you to create a personalized immigration plan and help you achieve your immigration goals.
Here are some of the specific ways we can help you:
Choose the right immigration program: There are many different immigration programs available, and it can be difficult to know which one is right for you. We can assess your eligibility for different programs and help you choose the one that is the best fit for your needs and goals.
Prepare your application: We can help you prepare all of the necessary documentation for your immigration application. We will also review your application carefully to ensure that it is complete and accurate.
Answer your questions: We understand that you may have many questions about the immigration process. We are here to answer your questions and provide you with the information you need to make informed decisions.
If you are interested in immigrating to Canada, we encourage you to contact us today. We would be happy to answer your questions and help you get started on your immigration journey.
On October 27, 2023, the IRCC announced new wage requirements for LMIA-based work permits in Canada, effective January 1, 2024. These changes are designed to ensure that temporary foreign workers are paid fairly and that Canadian workers are not disadvantaged.
Key Changes
Employers will be required to check temporary foreign workers’ wages every year to make sure they keep up with wage increases for their job and region of work.
Employers in seven selected sectors will continue to be allowed to hire up to 30% of their workforce in low-wage positions through the TFWP.
The maximum length of work will remain at two years for jobs paying less than the provincial or territorial median hourly wage.
The maximum validity time of the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) will be reduced from 18 months to 12 months.
What are the new wage requirements?
Under the new rules, employers will be required to pay temporary foreign workers the prevailing wage for their job and region of work. The prevailing wage is defined as the median hourly wage paid to Canadian workers in the same occupation and region.
Employers can find the prevailing wage for a particular occupation and region by using the Government of Canada’s Job Bank website.
How often do employers need to check the prevailing wage?
Employers must check the prevailing wage every year and make sure that their temporary foreign workers are being paid at least that amount. If the prevailing wage increases, employers must also increase the wages of their temporary foreign workers.
How employers can comply
Employers can comply with the new wage requirements by:
Reviewing temporary foreign workers’ wages every year and adjusting them as needed to keep up with wage increases for their job and region of work.
Using the Government of Canada’s Job Bank Wage Search tool to determine the prevailing wage for their job and region of work.
Maintaining documentation of their wage review process and the wages paid to temporary foreign workers.
How temporary foreign workers can protect themselves
Temporary foreign workers can protect themselves by:
Knowing their rights and the requirements of the TFWP.
Keeping a record of their wages and hours worked.
Contacting the Employment Standards Branch in their province or territory if they have any concerns about their wages or working conditions.
What are the consequences for employers who do not comply with the new wage requirements?
Employers who do not comply with the new wage requirements may be subject to administrative penalties, such as fines. They may also be denied future LMIAs.
What other changes are being made to the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)?
In addition to the new wage requirements, the government is also making a number of other changes to the TFWP, including:
Continuing to allow employers in seven selected sectors to hire up to 30% of their workforce in low-wage positions through the TFWP.
Keeping the maximum length of work at two years for jobs paying less than the provincial or territorial median hourly wage.
Changing the maximum validity time of the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from 18 months to 12 months.
Why these changes are important
The new wage requirements are designed to address concerns about wage suppression and ensure that temporary foreign workers are paid at the same rate as Canadian workers for doing the same job. The reduction in the validity time of the LMIA is designed to better reflect the job market and ensure that employers are hiring temporary foreign workers only when necessary.
How can CanAm help you?
Our Canadian immigration firm has extensive experience helping businesses and individuals with the Temporary Foreign Worker Program. We can help you to:
If you are an employer who hires temporary foreign workers, or if you are a temporary foreign worker who has questions about the new wage requirements or other changes to the TFWP, we can offer you a free consultation call. We can help you to understand the changes and ensure that you are in compliance with the law.
In a move aimed at simplifying the process of hiring temporary foreign workers, the Canadian federal government is introducing the “Recognized Employer Pilot” program. This initiative seeks to reduce bureaucratic hurdles for employers and provide a streamlined path for bringing in foreign workers. However, as this program unfolds, experts and advocates are raising important questions about the program’s scrutiny measures, potential economic implications, and its impact on Canadian society.
The Recognized Employer Pilot: A Breakdown
Streamlining the Hiring Process
The Recognized Employer Pilot program, set to launch in September, is poised to revolutionize the way Canadian employers engage temporary foreign workers. Initially targeting the agriculture sector, the program will later extend to all industries in January. Eligible employers with a strong history of compliance with program requirements will receive a three-year permit to bring in foreign workers without the need for frequent reapplications.
“The Recognized Employer Pilot will cut red tape for eligible employers, who demonstrate the highest level of protection for workers, and make it easier for them to access the labour they need to fill jobs that are essential to Canada’s economy and doof security”
Addressing Concerns and Enhancing Protections
However, with this shift comes valid concerns about the level of scrutiny these workers will receive and the economic landscape they will enter. As Canada grapples with challenges such as housing affordability, rising interest rates, and high inflation, critics are urging a closer look at the conditions foreign workers will face.
The Current Scenario: Temporary Foreign Worker Program
Presently, employers must undergo a labor market impact assessment (LMIA) each time they hire foreign workers under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program. This assessment ensures that a genuine need exists for filling the position. In recent years, the number of approved temporary foreign worker positions has surged, from approximately 89,000 in 2015 to over 221,000 in the last year. This doesn’t account for international students, graduates with open-work permits, and mobility agreements with various countries.
The Shift Towards Recognized Employers
The Recognized Employer Pilot promises to alleviate administrative burdens for qualified employers. These are employers who can demonstrate a robust commitment to worker protection. The program aims to simplify labor access for vital roles within Canada’s economy and food security. Employment Minister Randy Boissonnault highlights the program’s budget of $29.3 million over three years and asserts that the application process will be rigorous, targeting employers with exemplary recruitment practices.
Balancing Opportunity with Responsibility
Worker Protections and Social Impact
The growing reliance on foreign workers, though addressing labor shortages, is not without its challenges. Workers in low-skill, low-wage positions have reported abuses and exploitation by employers. Critics argue that without thorough oversight, such abuses could continue to persist, even within the trusted employer framework. The flexible labor force facilitated by these initiatives may strain housing markets, healthcare accessibility, and education systems.
Syed Hussan, executive director of Migrant Workers Alliance for Change, emphasizes that the effectiveness of the Recognized Employer Pilot hinges on the scrutiny of employers. He raises concerns about workers’ reluctance to complain due to potential reprisals. While the government has taken steps to protect migrant workers, further vigilance is necessary to ensure their rights and well-being.
Conclusion: Toward a Balanced Approach
In a bid to bolster Canada’s workforce and ensure essential services, the Recognized Employer Pilot program offers a unique pathway for employers to hire temporary foreign workers. While this move is promising, it also calls for a careful balance between streamlining processes and safeguarding worker rights. The success of this program lies in the implementation of stringent scrutiny measures and ongoing efforts to protect the well-being of all workers involved.
Canada’s Student Direct Stream (SDS) Program Now Accepts Additional English Language Tests. Starting from August 10, 2023, the Student Direct Stream (SDS) will now accept results from Prometric’s Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL) and Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP) – General tests for expedited study permits. This update allows international students to choose Canadian-made English language proficiency tests when applying for study permits through SDS.
We are excited about these changes, and Prometric, the provider of the CAEL and CELPIP tests, shares our enthusiasm. Michael Holaday, Vice President of Business Development at Prometric, expressed his support, stating,
“We welcome the changes to the Student Direct Stream and look forward to supporting more students who wish to live, work, and study in Canada with our CAEL and CELPIP – General tests. These products were developed here in Canada and have already been integral to many people’s immigration and study plans.”
What is the CELPIP-General test?
The CELPIP-General test has been recognized as an approved English proficiency test for Canadian permanent resident status applications since 2009, and it has been successfully administered to thousands of test takers each year. Its approval for SDS study permits expands its usefulness to a wider range of applicants. Additionally, CAEL, already accepted by over 180 Canadian academic institutions, provides an alternative choice for prospective SDS applicants. CAEL, developed in 1987 by language assessment and testing experts at Carleton University, is a comprehensive exam that assesses reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills through computer-based language tasks. It is designed to reflect the Canadian academic context, replicating the first-year classroom experience and demonstrating the abilities required for success in the Canadian post-secondary environment. Prometric, a leading technology-enabled testing and assessment solutions provider, supports over 7 million test takers annually in more than 180 countries. With its global reach and extensive expertise, Prometric is well-positioned to deliver the CAEL and CELPIP tests to international students and leverage its industry-leading experience.
The Student Direct Stream (SDS), launched in 2018, aims to streamline the process of obtaining study permits for international students from eligible countries. By adhering to specific requirements and providing the necessary documents upfront, eligible students can benefit from expedited processing times, ensuring a smooth transition to studying in Canada. The (SDS) program has expanded its eligibility to students from additional countries. These countries include China, Antigua and Barbuda, India, Brazil, Morocco, Colombia, Pakistan, Costa Rica, The Philippines, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Senegal, Peru, Vietnam, and Trinidad and Tobago. This expansion, combined with the acceptance of CAEL, CELPIP, and IELTS language exams, offers greater flexibility and convenience for international students.
How to Take Your Language Exam: CAEL, CELPIP, IELTS
If you are planning to study in Canada, it is essential to prepare for a language exam. Whether you choose the Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL) test, Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP), or International English Language Testing System (IELTS), here is a step-by-step guide on how to take your language exam:
Research and Select the Appropriate Exam: Familiarize yourself with the requirements of your desired institution and determine which language exam is accepted. Evaluate the format, content, and scoring system of CAEL, CELPIP, and IELTS to make an informed decision.
Register for the Exam: Visit the official websites of the respective exams (CAEL, CELPIP, or IELTS) and follow the registration process. Provide the necessary personal information, select a suitable test date, and pay the registration fee.
Prepare for the Exam: Utilize available study materials, practice tests, and resources provided by the exam organizers. Consider enrolling in preparatory courses or engaging in self-study to enhance your language skills and familiarize yourself with the exam structure.
Attend the Exam: On the scheduled date, arrive at the designated test center with your identification documents and any other required materials. Follow the instructions provided by the exam administrators and maintain focus throughout the exam.
Receive Your Exam Results: After completing the exam, your results will be available within a specified timeframe. The exam organizers will provide instructions on accessing and interpreting your scores. Keep your results for future reference, as they are often required during the study permit application process.
Familiarize yourself with the specific requirements and guidelines provided by the exam organizers for a successful and smooth exam experience. Following these steps will help you navigate the process of taking your language exam and take you one step closer to pursuing your educational goals in Canada.
The Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP) combines refugee resettlement and economic immigration. It’s a pathway that
helps skilled refugees immigrate to Canada through existing economic programs
gives employers access to a new pool of qualified candidates to fill job openings
The Canadian government is taking steps to address labor shortages by supporting skilled refugees and other displaced individuals in building their careers in Canada. Through programs like the Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP), the government is providing more opportunities for qualified individuals to thrive in high-demand industries such as healthcare, skilled crafts, and information technology. By helping these individuals build their careers in Canada, the government hopes to alleviate labor shortages and create a more diverse and inclusive workforce.
Attention employers: This summer, Canada’s Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP) is expanding! We’ll be launching a new EMPP immigration pathway to bring skilled refugees and other qualified displaced people from abroad to fill in-demand jobs: https://t.co/gQGsZhgebBpic.twitter.com/yuaRmrTeVJ
The new federal pathway will make the application procedure simpler and quicker by requiring only one application and following uniform qualifying requirements. The majority of applications will be approved within 6 months, allowing applicants to travel to Canada and start employment immediately. The new pathway will supplement current EMPP pathways and provide companies with more chances to fill various in-demand positions such as teachers, hospitality employees, truck drivers, software engineers, and long-term care aides.
The EMPP will help you apply to specific economic immigration programs by making it easier for you to
be eligible for an economic immigration program
complete and submit your application
start your new life in Canada
Through this pilot, the IRCC will:
make it easier for you to apply and be eligible for the economic program you choose
waive the application and biometric fees for you and any of your dependents
review and process your application in 6 months or less (in most cases)
give you access to the Immigration Loans Program (ILP), if your application is approved, to help with
travel costs
some pre-arrival travel services from the International Organization for Migration that the ILP covers the fee for
some start-up costs after you arrive in Canada (which is also available to other economic immigration applicants)
the right of permanent residence fee
let you access the Canadian Orientation Abroad Programme to help you integrate and settle in Canada
New opportunities
The EMPP offers eligible candidates the opportunity to resume their professions and lives in safety with their families in Canada while also supporting companies in meeting their labor market demands. The eligibility criteria have been expanded to include other displaced individuals who require international protection and lack a long-term solution. More details, including eligibility requirements, will be made available on the EMPP website in the upcoming weeks.
How will EMPP work?
Employers will be allowed to recruit refugees and displaced persons who qualify under any National Occupation Classification 2021 category TEER 0-5 according to the new government gateway. The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, stated that Canada will continue to develop innovative immigration measures to help employers address critical labor shortages and provide refugees with the opportunity to rebuild their lives in safety.
The IRCC states that the EMPP was created to help skilled refugees immigrate to Canada through existing economic programs to support Canadian labour market needs. This is the second phase of the EMPP. In the first phase of this pilot, they learned that skilled refugees can qualify for permanent residence through our economic programs with some help.
Starting December 3, 2021, EMPP phase 2 the IRCC will help settle up to 500 skilled refugees, and their families, in Canada.
The pilot combines refugee resettlement and economic immigration. Before you apply for the EMPP, you’ll apply for 1 of these immigration programs:
Atlantic Immigration Program
Provincial Nominee Program
Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot
Employers can use this pathway to fill a wide range of in-demand jobs, from nurse aides to software engineers and truck drivers. More information on the new EMPP federal pathway, including eligibility criteria, will be available online in the coming weeks: https://t.co/JgkFv0o99Vpic.twitter.com/cF5jGiXFwz
a job offer from a Canadian employer for full-time work
If you want to apply for AIP or RNIPAs part of the EMPP, you don’t need to meet some eligibility requirements for these programs:
You don’t need to prove you worked the number of hours asked for in the timeframes listed. Instead, you only need to show you worked the same number of hours in general, before you apply.
You can apply for a loan to meet the requirement of having enough money to support yourself and your family when you come to Canada (your settlement funds).
These exemptions do not apply to PNP. The province or territory decides the requirements for this program.
How to apply
You can apply for the Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP)
There are 7 partner organizations outside government that can help you
connect to employers in Canada
prepare for a job offer, then apply for the EMPP
Some partner organizations can issue a referral letter, which makes it faster and easier for you to apply. Other partner organizations can help you apply, but won’t affect the documents you need to use.
1. If you use a partner that can issue a referral letter
they make sure you meet the definition of a refugee for the EMPP before you apply
you need fewer forms and documents for your application
you still need a job offer from a Canadian employer
Partners that can provide a referral letter include
If you choose to apply online, you’ll complete and submit both online applications together.
By email
If you choose to apply by email, you must
complete all forms for both applications and
follow the EMPP instructions to submit them together
You can complete your applications yourself. If you decide to use an immigration representative, you can talk to one here: Talk to an adviser today! (Click here)
Quotes
“Canada is a global leader in helping skilled refugees connect with employers struggling to find workers in critical areas, while giving newcomers the opportunity to restart their careers and their lives here in Canada. Our government will continue to develop and scale innovative immigration measures to help employers address their critical labour shortages and provide refugees with the opportunity to live in safety while rebuilding their lives.”
– The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
“This is a solution for every hiring team in Canada. There are many thousands of women and men living as refugees globally who have enormous talent to contribute. Why not source your future colleagues from within refugee populations? You’ll find competitive skills, adaptability and creativity. These are people you want on your team. As visas get more seamless, Canada can become the world’s capital for hiring displaced talent.”
– Dana Wagner, Co-Founder and Managing Director, TalentLift
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