What you really need to now about hiring FOREIGN WORKERS
There are a few different ways to go about hiring foreign workers in Canada. The most common way is through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). This program allows Canadian employers to hire foreign workers to fill temporary labour and skill shortages.
To be eligible for the TFWP, employers must demonstrate that they have tried unsuccessfully to find a Canadian worker to fill the position. Employers must also pay foreign workers at least the prevailing wage for their occupation in Canada.
Foreign workers who are hired through the TFWP must first obtain a work permit from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Work permits are issued for fixed periods of time and can be renewed if necessary.
Employers who want to hire foreign workers through the TFWP must apply for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). The LMIA is a document that confirms that there is a shortage of Canadian workers and that hiring a foreign worker will not have a negative impact on the Canadian labour market.
If an employer is able to demonstrate that they meet all of the eligibility criteria, they can apply for a work permit online. Once the application has been submitted, it will be reviewed by IRCC. If approved, the foreign worker will then need to apply for a visa at their nearest Canadian embassy or consulate.
Hiring foreign students in Canada
There are also several programs available for employers who want to hire foreign students in Canada. For example, the International Student Work Permit Program allows international students studying in Canada to work up to 20 hours per week during the school year and full-time during summer holidays.
Employers who want to hire foreign workers or students must first obtain a Labour Market Opinion (LMO) from Service Canada. An LMO is a document that confirms that there is a shortage of Canadian workers and that hiring a foreign worker or student will not have a negative impact on the Canadian labour market.
If an employer is able to demonstrate that they meet all of the eligibility criteria, they can apply for an LMO online. Once the application has been submitted, it will be reviewed by Service Canada. If approved, the employer will then need to apply for a work permit or study permit at their nearest Canadian embassy or consulate.
The Canadian Experience Class program is another option for employers who want to hire foreign workers. This program allows foreigners who have worked in Canada for at least one year to apply for permanent residency.
For more information on hiring foreign workers in Canada, please visit the IRCC website at: irc.cic.gc.ca/english/work/index.asp.