Canada has just launched the second phase of its Recognized Employer Pilot Program (REP). Nairametrics reports that the REP is crafted to streamline processing for Canadian employers with a proven record of compliance with the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP).
It aims to allow eligible employers under the REP to enjoy extended validity periods for their Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs) and simplified LMIA applications following the initial assessment.
How the employer can participate in REP:
To qualify for the REP, employers need a minimum of three positive LMIAs in the last five years and must hire Temporary Foreign Workers (TFWs) for positions classified as ‘in-shortage’ based on COPS data. The TFWP helps address critical workforce needs by allowing the hiring of foreign nationals. LMIA submission to ESDC confirms the unavailability of Canadians or permanent residents for the specified job. REP-eligible LMIAs have an extended validity of up to 36 months, and eligible employers benefit from simplified LMIA applications in subsequent processes.
Benefits of the second phase of REF:
The initial phase of the REP, launched in September 2023, focused on employers in the primary agriculture sector and included four specific occupations. These were Livestock labourers, Harvesting labourers, Specialized livestock workers, and farm machinery operators, along with Nursery and greenhouse labourers.
In Phase 2, the REP has significantly expanded, making over 80 in-demand occupations from various sectors eligible. Notably, occupations already eligible for expedited processing through the Global Talent Stream are not included in the REP list, as per ESDC.
Benefits to the hiring employer:
Qualified employers under the REP can expect several benefits, including streamlined LMIA application procedures for positions on the COPS roster, simplified forms reducing interactions with ESDC, and a Job Bank designation to enhance their status.
They can also anticipate a thorough initial assessment, surpassing standard scrutiny, ensuring only reputable employers participate.
Employers can apply for the REP concurrently with their LMIA submission, with no additional information required. Those not qualifying for the REP will still receive a decision on their LMIA.
Canadian employers looking to hire foreign talent through the TFWP must submit an LMIA to ESDC for assessment.
The department evaluates applications to gauge the impact of hiring foreign workers on Canada’s labor market and economy, determining whether it’s positive, negative, or neutral. If ESDC finds the impact to be neutral or positive, employers are likely to receive approval to hire foreign workers.
ESDC ensures employer compliance with conditions, such as following provincial and territorial employment laws, paying agreed-upon wages as per contracts, and providing safe working conditions free from abuse. Additionally, TFWP issues closed work permits to foreign workers, limiting them from working for any other employer in Canada.
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