Federal government introduces new program for employers with temporary foreign workers

On Monday, August 8, 2023, the Federal government announced it was launching a three-year pilot project titled the “Recognized Employer Pilot (REP)” under the Temporary Foreign Worker (TFW) Program, which will aim at addressing labour shortages and “reduce the administrative burden” for employers who hire migrant workers.

The program will see employers gain access to Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs) that are valid for up to 36 months “while also benefitting from a simplified LMIA application,” according to the announcement.

To participate in REP – which will start in September 2023 for the agriculture industry and January 2024 for other employers – businesses must have a minimum of three positive LMIAs for the same qualifying occupation over the past five years.

RCC is concerned the government’s program excludes small independent businesses and will encourage the government to create a small business stream.