Canada to reduce intake of temporary foreign workers

Canada to reduce intake of temporary foreign workers

The Canadian government has announced that it will be reducing the number of foreign workers allowed into the country under the Temporary Foreign Worker (TFW) program, beginning September 26, 2024.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made the announcement on Monday via Twitter, stating that the move is aimed at encouraging businesses to invest more in the Canadian workforce.

“We’re reducing the number of low-wage, temporary foreign workers in Canada. The labour market has changed. Now is the time for our businesses to invest in Canadian workers and youth,” Trudeau said.

The Ministry of Employment explained that the TFW program was originally designed to fill job vacancies only when qualified Canadians and permanent residents were not available.

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However, the program has reportedly been misused by some employers to bypass hiring local talent.

As part of the new changes, employers will be restricted to hiring no more than 10% of their total workforce through the TFW program. Exceptions will be made for jobs related to food security (including primary agriculture, food processing, and fish processing), as well as healthcare and construction sectors.

Additionally, the maximum duration of employment for workers hired through the low-wage stream will be reduced from two years to one year.

The Canadian government emphasized the importance of investing in the local workforce, including young people, newcomers, and persons with disabilities, who are often underutilized.

Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Employment, noted that the changes aim to prioritize Canadian workers and ensure that the TFW program is properly aligned with the country’s economic needs.

These changes are significant for many, including Nigerians, Indians, and nationals from other developing countries, who form a large portion of those migrating to Canada for work. The new regulations will take effect on September 26, 2024.

Canada to reduce intake of temporary foreign workers