Canada Expands Recognized Employer Pilot Program

Canada has initiated the second phase of the Recognized Employer Pilot Program (REP), opening up eligibility for a broader range of employers. The REP aims to streamline the processing for Canadian employers who have demonstrated compliance with the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). Qualified employers under the REP benefit from extended validity periods for Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs) and simplified LMIA applications post-initial assessment.

To be eligible for the REP, an employer must have obtained a minimum of three positive LMIAs in the past five years, hiring Temporary Foreign Workers (TFWs) for positions identified as ‘in-shortage’ according to the Canadian Occupations Projection System (COPS).

Through the TFWP, employers address urgent workforce needs by hiring foreign nationals. The LMIA submitted to Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) confirms the necessity of hiring non-Canadians for specific roles. While standard LMIA work permit applications are valid for 18 months, REP-eligible employers receive LMIAs valid for up to 36 months, along with simplified future LMIA applications.

ESDC outlines additional benefits for eligible employers, including a streamlined LMIA application process for positions on the COPS list, reduced points of contact with ESDC, and a Job Bank designation to enhance visibility to potential workers.

Participation in the REP involves a thorough initial assessment to ensure the selection of reputable employers. Employers can apply for the REP concurrently with their LMIA submission, with no need for additional information. Even those not qualifying for the REP will receive a decision on their LMIA.

In Phase 2, the REP encompasses over 80 in-demand occupations from various sectors, marking a significant expansion from the initial phase that targeted the primary agriculture sector. Notably, occupations eligible for work permits through the Global Talent Stream are excluded from the REP list due to their existing eligibility for expedited processing.

The Temporary Foreign Worker Program mandates Canadian employers to submit an LMIA to ESDC for prospective hires. ESDC evaluates the application’s impact on Canada’s labor market and economy, granting permission to hire foreign workers if deemed positive or neutral. Workers hired through the TFWP receive closed work permits, restricting them from working for other employers in Canada. ESDC ensures employer compliance with various conditions, including adherence to provincial laws, payment of agreed-upon wages, and provision of safe working conditions.