Canada to soon launch Recognized Employer Pilot for temporary foreign workers

Kareem El-Assal
Published: August 9, 2023

In order to help address labour shortages, the Canadian government has announced it will launch the Recognized Employer Pilot in September.

The Recognized Employer Pilot will operate under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) and will aim to reduce the administrative burden for repeat employers who have a history of demonstrating compliance with the TFWP's requirements.

Schedule a Free Work Permit Consultation with the Cohen Immigration Law Firm

Under the REP, eligible employers will gain access to Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs) that are valid for up to 36 months, while also benefitting from a simplified LMIA application.

An LMIA is a labour market test that Canadian employers need to complete to recruit foreign workers under the TFWP. The purpose of the LMIA is to demonstrate there are no workers in Canada available to do the job for which the employer is recruiting.

The Canadian government has said these steps will help eligible employers better plan for their staffing needs and reduce the number of LMIA applications they need to submit over three years. Recognized employers will also benefit from a Job Bank designation that shows their recognized status to prospective workers.

In order to participate in the REP, employers must have a minimum of three positive LMIAs over the past five years for the same occupation from a list of occupations designated in-shortage based on Canadian Occupational Projection System (COPS) data. Such employers will be subject to a more rigorous upfront assessment process based on their history with the TFWP, ensuring that the REP only targets employers with the best recruitment practices.

The REP will be rolled out in two phases. Beginning in September 2023, primary agriculture employers will be able to start applying.

All other employers will be eligible to apply in January 2024.

Employer applications for the REP will close in September 2024.

Employers eligible under the REP can expect a simplified application process for future LMIA applications for positions on the COPS list.

In addition, they can expect fewer points of contact between participating employers and the Department of Employment and Social Development (ESDC) during the pilot due to simplified LMIA forms that enable employers to hire addition temporary foreign workers during the REP's pilot period.

The Canadian government notes the REP is one measure being launched alongside others aimed at improving the TFWP.

ESDC states it will be offering technical briefings to stakeholders to provide more information about the REP and the application process. It says it will communicate further details soon.

Schedule a Free Work Permit Consultation with the Cohen Immigration Law Firm

Share this article
Share your voice
Did you find this article helpful?
Thank you for your feedback.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Did you find this article helpful?
Please provide a response
Thank you for your helpful feedback
Please contact us if you would like to share additional feedback, have a question, or would like Canadian immigration assistance.
  • Do you need Canadian immigration assistance? Contact the Contact Cohen Immigration Law firm by completing our form
  • Send us your feedback or your non-legal assistance questions by emailing us at media@canadavisa.com
Related articles
Planning a conference in Canada this summer? Here’s what you need to know about Canadian work authorization
Podium lectern with two microphones and Canadian flag in background
Regions in Canada where low-wage LMIAs won’t be processed, as of April 4
A blue cloudy sky over the downtown Calgary skyline in the springtime.
Canada removes bonus CRS points for arranged employment from Express Entry
A scenic shot of Ottawa Government Palace from the angle of bright red tulips
PGWP expiring? Here are all your options to continue working in Canada
A young woman ponders over post it notes
Top Stories
Prince Edward Island holds its fourth PNP draw of the year
Alberta invites candidates for provincial immigration
Sault Ste Marie and Brandon announce priority sectors for new permanent residence pathway
Join our free newsletter. Get Canada's top immigration stories delivered to your inbox.
Subscribe
More in Canada
Prince Edward Island holds its fourth PNP draw of the year
A view of French River in PEI, showing colourful fishing buildings and boats lining the water, as well as rolling hills.
Sault Ste Marie and Brandon announce priority sectors for new permanent residence pathway
The boardwalk at Sault Ste. Marie's waterfront in Ontario.
What do to if you lose your PR card while outside Canada
A white plane photographed from below as it flies over buildings with blue-tinted windows.
Is a job offer still important for getting Canadian permanent residency?
A woman in corporate attire smiles while shaking someone's hand
Link copied to clipboard