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Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)

Table of Contents

Overview

The Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) allows Canadian employers to hire foreign nationals for positions when no qualified Canadians or permanent residents are available. It helps fill short-term labor gaps in industries such as agriculture, hospitality, construction, manufacturing, caregiving, and tech.

Every job offer under TFWP requires a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) issued by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC).

Who Can Apply?

Foreign workers may qualify if:

  • They have a valid job offer from a Canadian employer approved under the TFWP

  • The employer has received a positive LMIA confirming the need for a foreign worker

  • They meet the required skills, education, and language level for the job

They pass medical exams (if needed) and have no criminal record

TFWP Covers These Job Categories:

  • High-Wage Stream – Skilled workers earning above the median wage

  • Low-Wage Stream – General labor or support roles

  • Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP)

  • Agri-Food Pilot roles under TFWP

  • Home care workers (in-home caregivers or support workers)

Global Talent Stream – Fast-track for highly skilled tech and STEM roles

Requirements for Employers

To hire through the TFWP, Canadian employers must:

  • Submit a job posting and recruitment efforts

  • Obtain a positive LMIA from ESDC

  • Provide the worker with a detailed job offer letter

Pay the application fee and offer transportation, housing (in some streams), and workplace rights

Application Process

Employer Applies for LMIA

Receive Positive LMIA & Job Offer Letter

Worker applies for a work permit

Biometrics and medical exam (if required)

Permit is issued and worker travels to Canada

Processing Time

  • LMIA: 2–8 weeks (depending on stream)

  • Work permit: 4–12 weeks after LMIA approval

Global Talent Stream: 2-week processing (for eligible jobs)

Important Notes

  • TFWP permits are employer-specific and job-specific

  • Workers cannot switch employers without a new LMIA and work permit

Employers must comply with wage, housing, and safety regulations

How We Help

We support both employers and workers by:

  • Preparing and submitting LMIA applications

     

  • Drafting compliant job offers and contracts

     

  • Guiding workers through the work permit process

     

  • Ensuring all IRCC and ESDC requirements are met

     

  • Helping workers later transition to PR through PNPs or Agri-Food pathways

Get Help With Your Application

Check Your Eligibility for Canadian Immigration

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