Canada Introduces Stricter Guidelines for Hiring Temporary Foreign Workers

The Canadian government has implemented additional regulations on its Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) to protect Canadian jobs, and fair wages for temporary foreign workers, and prevent exploitation.

Key Components of the New Restrictions:

1. Wage Requirements

Employers must pay temporary foreign workers wages equal to or above the median hourly wage in the province or territory where they will be employed.

1. Enhanced Job Advertising Requirements

Employers must advertise job openings to Canadians and permanent residents for at least 4 weeks before hiring temporary foreign workers. This ensures that Canadian citizens and permanent residents are given priority for available positions.

1. Limitations on Low-Wage Workers

Employers in specific sectors, such as:

• Food services
• Accommodations
• Other low-wage industries

Are restricted from hiring low-wage temporary foreign workers.

1. Increased Inspections and Monitoring

The government will conduct more inspections to ensure employers comply with program requirements, protecting temporary foreign workers from exploitation.

1. Fines and Penalties

Non-compliant employers face:

• Fines
• Penalties
• Potential bans from the program

Rationale Behind the New Restrictions:

The Canadian government aims to:

1. Protect Canadian jobs and ensure that temporary foreign workers are not used to filling positions Canadians can.
2. Ensure fair wages for temporary foreign workers, preventing exploitation.
3. Align the TFWP with Canada's labour market needs.

Share this: