The Canadian government implemented significant immigration changes on September 26, 2024, affecting various immigration pathways and work permits. These changes were aimed at aligning Canada’s immigration policies with labor market demands and evolving economic conditions. In this article, we’ll cover the most critical changes, including program closures, adjustments in wage requirements, and the broader implications for individuals seeking work permits in Canada.
1. Program Closures
Several immigration programs were either closed or modified as part of the changes:
a. Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) — Low-Wage Stream Closure
One of the most impactful closures is the Low-Wage Stream under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). This stream historically allowed employers to bring foreign workers into low-skill, low-wage jobs in industries like agriculture, hospitality, and retail. However, as of September 26, 2024, the Canadian government ceased the issuance of new work permits under this stream due to concerns about job competition and its impact on Canadian citizens and permanent residents.
- Impact: Employers in low-wage industries are now required to focus on hiring locally or through other Canadian labor market programs, with a shift toward upskilling Canadian workers. This closure affects both employers and foreign nationals who typically relied on these positions as an entry point to the Canadian job market.
b. Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) — Modifications
The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP), a popular program for attracting immigrants to the Atlantic provinces (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Prince Edward Island), has undergone some changes. While the program remains active, stricter eligibility criteria have been introduced, particularly in relation to job offers and employer participation.
- Impact: While the AIP still offers a pathway to permanent residence, the new rules could make it more difficult for smaller employers in the Atlantic region to participate, potentially reducing the number of job offers available to foreign workers.
c. Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP) — Suspension
The Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP) has been temporarily suspended due to concerns about its effectiveness in retaining newcomers in smaller communities. The pilot was initially designed to help rural areas in Canada attract and retain immigrants, but a government review highlighted challenges such as a lack of adequate infrastructure and social support systems in these communities.
- Impact: Those who planned to apply through RNIP will need to look for alternative immigration pathways or wait for the potential reintroduction of the program with modifications in the future.
2. Changes to Wage Requirements for Work Permits
The changes introduced on September 26, 2024, also affected wage requirements for individuals applying for work permits, particularly under the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) system.
a. General Work Permits (LMIA-based)
For foreign workers seeking an LMIA-based work permit, the minimum wage requirement has been increased. As of the change, the minimum wage to qualify for a work permit is now set according to the median wage rate of the province or territory where the job is located.
For example, as of September 2024:
- Ontario: The minimum wage requirement for an LMIA-based work permit is CAD 18 per hour.
- British Columbia: The requirement is CAD 19 per hour.
- Alberta: CAD 17.50 per hour.
These wage increases reflect the government’s efforts to ensure that foreign workers are paid fairly and that Canadian wages remain competitive.
- Impact: Employers looking to hire foreign workers now face higher wage costs, which could reduce the number of available job offers for foreign nationals. Additionally, it places more pressure on businesses in sectors with tight margins, such as hospitality and retail.
b. Post-Graduate Work Permits (PGWP)
For international students applying for Post-Graduate Work Permits (PGWP), there were no significant wage changes. However, the government has introduced policies encouraging employers to provide international graduates with competitive wages to reduce reliance on entry-level positions and help them integrate into the Canadian labor market.
3. Other Important Updates
a. Points System Adjustments for Express Entry
In addition to program closures and wage adjustments, the Express Entry system, which manages applications for three economic immigration programs (Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, and Canadian Experience Class), has seen adjustments in its points-based Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). As of September 2024, candidates with job offers in high-demand sectors, such as healthcare, IT, and construction, receive additional points, making them more competitive for an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
- Impact: This shift in points allocation aligns with Canada’s focus on addressing labor shortages in key industries. Foreign workers in these fields may find it easier to secure permanent residency through Express Entry.
b. Temporary Work Permits for Graduates of Designated Institutions
Graduates of certain designated learning institutions now have access to an expedited pathway for temporary work permits. These permits allow graduates to work in Canada while awaiting permanent residency. The program primarily targets graduates in fields that align with labor market needs, such as STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics).
- Impact: This measure seeks to retain top talent educated in Canada and ensure they have opportunities to contribute to the workforce while navigating the immigration process.
4. Conclusion: What Does This Mean for Future Immigrants?
The changes that took effect on September 26, 2024, represent a significant shift in Canada’s immigration policies, particularly in the realm of temporary foreign workers and economic immigration. The closure of programs like the TFWP Low-Wage Stream and the suspension of the RNIP signals a government focus on upskilling the local labor market and ensuring immigrants have long-term prospects in high-demand sectors.
For prospective immigrants, particularly those seeking work permits, the higher wage thresholds will need to be factored into their job search and application process. While opportunities remain plentiful in sectors such as healthcare, IT, and construction, applicants should be aware of the evolving requirements and ensure they are meeting the wage and skill criteria to improve their chances of success.
In summary, while Canada remains open to immigrants and foreign workers, the changes signal a shift toward a more selective and targeted approach to immigration, prioritizing sectors that will drive economic growth and address critical labor shortages in the years to come.
