“The Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) is vital to Canada’s economy, helping employers fill labour gabs when qualified Canadians or Permanent Residents are not available. Employment and Social Development of Canada (ESDC) is dedicated to safeguarding the health and safety of these workers and is actively monitoring compliance with program regulations.”
In the last fiscal year, ESDC carried out 2,122 inspections under the TFWP, revealing that 94% of employers adhered to the program’s regulations. Employers found non-compliant faced significant repercussions, including $2.1 million in Administrative Monetary Penalties (AMPs), marking a 36% increase compared to the prior year. Additionally, 12 employers were banned from the program, an increase from 7 in the previous year. These noncompliant employers are publicly listed on a website managed by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
To address these issues, the Government of Canada has allocated $48 million over two years, beginning in 2023-2024, to strengthen the Employer Compliance Regime under the TFWP. This investment will fund the hiring of additional inspectors, the operation of a worker protection tip line, outreach efforts to employer organizations and consulates, and the creation of tools for reporting potential program misuse.
The Government of Canada is committed to continuously enhancing the TFWP to ensure that all employers uphold their obligations. It is essential for employers to understand the importance of honoring the job offers extended to temporary foreign workers. These offers are not just formalities; they represent binding agreements that outline the terms and conditions of employment, including wages, working hours, and job duties.
Written by: Rion Scott
