The Temporary Foreign Worker Program is a backbone of nearly all industries in Canada for many years. It is a federal program that allows Canadian employers to hire eligible foreign nationals to tackle labor shortages including Tech, Healthcare and Hospitality.
However, over the years, excess admission of Temporary Foreign Workers has led the immigration levels to go unsustainably high. This has made the unemployment rates among youth reach as high as 14%, according to the Statistics Canada May 2025 report.
Due to this the Ontario Conservative MP Jamil Jivani launched a petition to end the TWFP program. In addition, there is an ongoing opposition amongst Canadians to cut down numbers of Temporary foreign workers.
Why has MP Jivani Filed the petition to end TFWP?
MP Jivani argues that the large number of immigrants are draining healthcare and housing resources meant for Canadian citizens and permanent residents. According to him, TFWP is not only taking away opportunities from locals but also suppressing wages in key industries.
TFWP has created a system where Canadian employers have become heavily dependent on low-cost foreign labour. However, this is a matter of debate as all employers hiring foreign workers in most cases are required to pay median wages to the foreign workers with some exceptions.
This petition quickly became popular with Canadians, as frustrations regarding competitive job market and economic challenges are now a common sentiment. Industries like retail, food service, hospitality, and agriculture are heavily crowded with TFWs. This indirectly discourages employers from investing in the training and development of Canadian Workers.
But it must be noted that Jivani does not want to take TFWs from the agricultural sector. Rather, he wants to separate it from the TFWP entirely, suggesting the creation of a seasonal agricultural worker program. Moreover, _the Temporary Foreign Workers Program also includes the international students residing in Canada as well.
What was the Government Response?
The problem highlighted by Jivani is not a new one. Alarming immigration levels have been in news since last year. The government has already taken significant measures to control the influx of immigrant workers.
The plan is to admit 82,000 workers annually under the TFWP from 2025-2027.
Employment Minister Patty Hajdu said that the government has already scaled back a lot in TFWP so that it can meet local labour needs. For example, LMIA applications were refused for any metropolitan area that is witnessing an unemployment rate above 6%.
She also mentioned that her department is in continuous dialogue with labour and industry groups. The aim is to implement changes that ensure the security of Canadian talent.
Hajdu also added that no matter the negative effects of TFW program, its importance in the agricultural and tourism sector cannot be denied. Hence there is an immense need to introduce balanced reform measures.
What Is the Temporary Foreign Worker Program?
The TFWP allows Canadian employers to hire foreign workers who obtain a valid Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). It is a document that proves that no Canadian workers are available for the job, and hiring a foreign worker will not negatively impact the local job market.
Once foreign workers receive approval, they can apply for temporary work permits for a limited period.
The program is divided into several streams to address diverse labor needs:
- High-Wage Workers – For skilled roles that require advanced education or training.
- Low-Wage Workers – For entry-level jobs in retail, food service, and hospitality.
- Global Talent Stream – A fast-track process for highly skilled tech and R&D professionals.
- In-Home Caregivers – For workers who provide care to children, seniors, or individuals with disabilities.
- Foreign Agricultural Workers – Mostly seasonal workers from Mexico and the Caribbean.
- Foreign Academics – For researchers and educators in specialized fields.
What is next for TFWP?
As the opposition against the Temporary foreign worker program increases amongst the Canadians, further tightening of rules and selective approvals regarding work permits can be expected.
Potential outcomes include:
- Reforms to limit or restructure TFW streams.
- Separation of agricultural workers into a dedicated seasonal program.
- Incentives and funding for training Canadian workers in impacted industries.
What are the alternatives to TFWP?
If you’re unable to apply through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program due to recent limitations or eligibility issues, there are several other immigration pathways you can explore:
- Express Entry
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
- International Mobility Program (IMP)
- Study Permit to Permanent Residency
- Caregiver Pathways
- Startup Visa or Self-Employed Program
Each of these pathways has its own requirements, timelines, and benefits, and choosing the right one depends on your background, goals, and current immigration status. Connect with our Immigration lawyers to learn about in depth!
How can our Immigration Lawyers help you?
Whether you’re an employer looking to navigate TFWP or a foreign worker planning to work in Canada, Nanda and Associate lawyers is here to guide you. Holding over 20 years of experience, we offer help with LMIA applications, work permit processing, program eligibility, and long-term immigration planning. We also ensure full compliance with federal policies, so your goals are met without delay. Call our Immigration Lawyers at 905-405-0199 today!
Read: Legal Disclaimer
