Canada launches fast-track work permit program in the Philippines

Julia Hornstein
Published: October 19, 2023

Today, the Honorable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced the launch of CAN Work Philippines, a pilot program at IRCC’s visa office in Manila.

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

The pilot will streamline work permit processing for eligible Canadian employers and allow them to schedule group appointments for medical examinations and biometrics for potential employees, so that skilled workers from the Philippines can come to Canada.

The pilot is for Canadian employers recruiting in the Philippines and hiring approximately 50 or more workers, or for critical occupations such as health care, construction, and agri-food.

To participate in the program, employers must demonstrate their commitment to fair and ethical recruitment guidelines, as published by the International Organization for Migration (ION).

IRCC is also giving $200,000 to the IOM to support the adoption of fair and ethical recruitment standards in the Philippines. The funding will help IOM work with the Government of the Philippines, conduct training sessions and promote the IOM’s Fair and Ethical Recruitment Due Diligence Toolkit to organizations that are either involved or have an interested in recruiting talent in the Philippines.

“Every year, thousands of temporary foreign workers from around the world bring their skills to Canada, helping to grow our economy and fill labour market shortages. This includes a substantial number of newcomers from the Philippines. The CAN Work Philippines pilot will give Canada an important advantage in the global race for talent and support our industries in addressing labour market shortages. At the same time, the funding to the IOM demonstrates our continued commitment to fair and ethical recruitment practices and will help ensure the health, safety and quality of life of temporary foreign workers,” said Marc Miller.

The Philippines is a major source of newcomers to Canada. This pilot will help strengthen the close social ties between our two nations while addressing labour shortages in the Canadian economy and reinforcing Canada as a top destination for global talent.

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
Who can apply for a work permit from within Canada?
The Canadian flag hoisted atop a flagpole in the foreground, with Banff National Park in the background.
IRCC shares common mistakes in PR applications — here’s what to avoid
Hand holding Canadian flag
Lena Metlege Diab named Canada’s new Immigration Minister
Canadian flags on top of building with blue sky
Did IRCC refuse your application? What to do next
A stressed man sitting at a table holding up one hand to his head in exasperation while holding up a number of papers in the other.
Top Stories
The top summer jobs for international students in Canada
Who can apply for a work permit from within Canada?
IRCC shares common mistakes in PR applications — here’s what to avoid
Join our free newsletter. Get Canada's top immigration stories delivered to your inbox.
Subscribe
More in Canada
IRCC shares common mistakes in PR applications — here’s what to avoid
Hand holding Canadian flag
Lena Metlege Diab named Canada’s new Immigration Minister
Canadian flags on top of building with blue sky
Did IRCC refuse your application? What to do next
A stressed man sitting at a table holding up one hand to his head in exasperation while holding up a number of papers in the other.
Steinbach announces priority sectors and occupations for new rural pathway to permanent residence
Aerial view of the city of Steinbach
Link copied to clipboard