Canada to simplify hiring for repeat TFWP employers with a Recognized Employer Pilot

Starting September 2023, Canada will be rolling out a Recognized Employer Pilot (REP) to reduce the administrative burden and simplify the hiring process for repeat Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) employers in the country.
Employers looking to hire a temporary foreign worker need to complete the Canadian government’s Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), which confirms that there is a need for a temporary foreign worker and that no Canadians or permanent residents are available for it. It also ensures that the employer’s job offer is legitimate and that the employer has complied with Program requirements to protect workers.
Also read: Canada is prioritizing Express Entry invitations for skilled workers in healthcare, STEM fields
To participate in REP, employers must have a minimum of three positive LMIAs for the same occupation over the past five years from a list of occupations that have been designated as in-shortage and supported using Canadian Occupational Projection System (COPS) data.
Recognized Employer Pilot: Eligible employers can expect:
- Access to LMIA validity periods of up to 36 months
- Simplified application process for future LMIA applications for positions on the COPS list;
- Fewer points of contact between participating employers and ESDC during the pilot due to simplified LMIA forms that enable employers to hire additional Temporary Foreign Workers for genuine job offers during REP
- Job Bank designation that shows their recognized status to improve interest from prospective workers
Recognized Employer Pilot will be rolled out in two stages, the first beginning in September 2023, when employers in the Primary Agriculture stream will be able to apply in time for the 2024 season. Stage two will begin in January 2024 and open intake to all other industry sectors. Learn more about the Temporary Foreign Worker Program Recognized Employer Pilot.
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