Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) recently published that 56% of surveyed Canadian companies indicated they are having difficulties finding the staff they need. “Challenging demographics and a failure to truly rise to the moment from governments also mean the current situation could deteriorate further in the future,” notes the CFIB in that report.
With growing labor and skills shortages nationwide, many Canadian employers are struggling to fill jobs that are essential to their operations. The Government of Canada recognizes these challenges and wants to help employers hire the workers they need, while also reducing the ‘red tape’ for employers with a proven track record.
Eligibility
Employers and employers’ representatives can now apply for a Recognized Employer Pilot (REP) when submitting new LMIA applications. Service Canada will conduct a rigorous, upfront assessment of the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) application to determine the eligibility for the REP.
Employers may be eligible for the REP if:
- They have received at least 3 positive LMIA decisions in the last 5 years to hire temporary foreign workers (TFWs) for positions on the REP occupations list
- Meet the highest standards for working conditions, living conditions, and worker protection as demonstrated through your history with the TFW Program (TFWP), and
- you agree to adhere to the regular TFWP requirements.
If there was no LMIA application submission or approval on an LMIA submitted during 2020 or 2021, employers may still be eligible if you received:
- at least one positive LMIA in 2022 or 2023, and
- 2 additional positive LMIAs in any of 2023, 2022, 2019, 2018, 2017 or 2016
Employers will need to undertake annual wage reviews on January 1 of each year to ensure that TFWs are receiving the current prevailing wage for the occupation and work location where they’re employed, regardless of the wage on the approved LMIA. The median rate is always displayed on the Job Bank website.
Benefits
Recognized employers can benefit from LMIA validity periods of 36 months. They can also access a simplified LMIA application when hiring additional workers in the future.
The full list of Phase 1 and Phase 2 occupations