Canada has expanded the Recognized Employer Pilot Program (REP), making it easier for more employers to apply. The REP is designed to speed up the processing for Canadian employers who have proven compliance with the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP).
Qualifying employers under the REP will benefit from longer validity periods for Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs) and simplified LMIA applications after the initial assessment. To be eligible for the REP, an employer must have obtained at least three positive LMIA assessments in the past five years and be hiring Temporary Foreign Workers (TFWs) for positions on the list of occupations designated as ‘in-shortage’ according to data from the Canadian Occupations Projection System (COPS).
Employers can hire foreign nationals through the TFWP to fill an urgent need in Canada’s workforce. The LMIA that an employer submits to Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) confirms that no Canadians or permanent residents are able to do the job. Typically, LMIA work permit applications are valid for 18 months, but those eligible for the REP will receive LMIAs valid for up to 36 months, along with simplified LMIA applications in the future.
ESDC has stated that eligible employers can expect a simplified application process, fewer points of contact, and a Job Bank designation to improve interest from prospective workers. Employers can expect a thorough initial assessment to ensure reputable employers are selected to participate in the program.
Phase 2 of the REP has expanded eligibility to more than 80 in-demand occupations from a wide range of sectors. Occupations listed as eligible for work permits through the Global Talent Stream are not included in the REP because they are already eligible for expedited processing.
Employers who plan to hire through the TFWP must submit an LMIA to ESDC, which will review the application to decide the impact on Canada’s labour market and economy. Employees hired through the TFWP are given closed work permits, meaning they cannot work for another employer in Canada.
ESDC will check for employer compliance with various conditions, including compliance with provincial and territorial laws, paying agreed-upon wages, and providing safe working conditions free of abuse.
In summary, REP makes it easier for employers in Canada to apply for LMIA assessments, with longer validity periods and simplified application processes. This opens up more opportunities for foreign workers to fill in-demand positions in the Canadian workforce.
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