Welcome to the Guberman // Appleby Immigration Update. We hope you find the information provided relevant to your immigration needs. Our objective is to highlight recent changes in immigration that are of interest to our readers. If you have specific questions relating to this update, feel free to contact us at info@gaimmlaw.com
Today’s topic:
- Employment and Social Development Canada Announces New Recognized Employer Pilot for Temporary Foreign Workers ·
On August 8, 2023, Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) announced the launch of a new Recognized Employer Pilot (REP). This pilot process will simplify hiring Temporary Foreign Workers for companies that have had three (3) or more positive Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs) in the same occupation over the last five (5) years, provided that the occupation is noted on an “in-shortage” list that is based on data from the Canadian Occupational Projection System. In addition, in order to be eligible, employers must have a history of compliance with all aspects of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program. The highlights of the announcement are:
- The REP pilot program will essentially simplify the process of hiring Temporary Foreign Workers for employers who have demonstrated a history of successfully meeting the requirements of the category.
- Recognized employers will have access to LMIAs with validity periods of up to 36 months
- Recognized employers will have access to a simplified LMIA process for future additional foreign workers for occupations that are included on the Canadian Occupation Projection System list.
- Participating employers will also get a Job Bank designation showing their recognized status
For those who qualify, the Recognized Employer Pilot (REP) makes it easier for eligible businesses that have hired foreign workers before to keep doing so by reducing paperwork and simplifying the process. Phase One of the pilot will start in September 2023, for four Agriculture sector occupations. Phase Two of the pilot will start in January 2024 for 88 occupations that fall under management occupations, natural and applied sciences and related occupations, health occupations, social science occupations, sales and service occupations, trade, transportation and equipment occupations, additional agriculture occupations, butchers, seafood workers and labourers in food, beverage and fish processing.
Approved REP employers will be required to not only participate in the current inspection regime, but also be subject to random REP inspection to ensure that they are compliant with the requirements of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program and of REP. As well, participating companies must ensure that Temporary Foreign Worker are compensated at the posted prevailing wage annually, continue to recruit Canadians or permanent residents and, for the agriculture sector, comply with accommodation inspections and standards.
Guberman // Appleby Immigration Lawyers are available to discuss how the new REP can assist you, your business, or your employees.
// CONTACT US
We welcome you to contact us directly to discuss the above. Please contact one of our immigration lawyers, by reaching out to our general line 416 548 7100 or via email info@gaimmlaw.com. Our immigration lawyers are always available to discuss any of your specific Canadian or US immigration queries either virtually or in person. We look forward to hearing from you.
