LMIA News 2023: Canada Work Permit Latest News Updates
Labour Market Impact Assessment News: Stay updated on the most recent Canada immigration news, including details about Canada’s LMIA work permits, application fees, wait times, and the comprehensive guide on how to apply.
Labour Market Impact Assessment News – LMIA Work Permit
Canada Introduces New Recognized Employer Pilot
In response to labor shortages and to improve the hiring mechanism for recurrent users of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), Canada introduces the Recognized Employer Pilot (REP). Scheduled to kick off in September 2023, this pilot intends to make the hiring process more employer-friendly, especially for those frequently tapping into the TFW Program.
Eligible employers under the REP can enjoy extended Labor Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs) valid up to 36 months, doubling the current maximum of 18 months.
Remember, an LMIA is crucial for employers before hiring foreign workers temporarily. It asserts the need to hire internationally, asserting no Canadian citizens or permanent residents are available for the job. It’s also a testament to a legitimate job offer and the employer’s commitment to regulatory worker protection standards.
Requirements and Eligibility for Recognized Employer Pilot
For eligibility in the REP:
- Employers should have at least three positive LMIAs for the same job within the last five years.
- Jobs must be recognized as in-demand by the Canadian Occupational Projection System (COPS).
- Employers need to maintain high standards in worker living conditions, protection, and other program requisites.
Additionally, participants will enjoy a more straightforward future LMIA application procedure for COPS-listed roles.
Important Dates for Canada’s Recognized Employer Pilot
Phase 1: Commencing in September 2023, applications cater to roles in the Primary Agriculture stream. Jobs like livestock, harvesting, greenhouse laborers, specialized livestock personnel, and farm machinery operators, identified as in-demand, will be highlighted.
Phase 2: Beginning in January 2024, the program expands to include roles from the Phase 2 REP job list by the Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) – a list featuring sectors like healthcare, food service, and more. However, Global Talent Stream (GTS) jobs are not part of the REP due to existing accelerated LMIA processing.
The trial will accept applications until September 2024. The REP will wrap up in 2026, emphasizing the government’s commitment to alleviating the labor market’s pressures.