EXEO Attorneys | Immigration U.S. & Canada, April 2022

The federal and provincial governments are gradually relaxing the Temporary Foreign Worker (TFW) Program to address the current labour shortage. Here is an overview of the current and upcoming flexibilities, as well as a reminder of current updates regarding travel restrictions as of April 7, 2022:

Increasing the number of occupations on the list of occupations eligible for Quebec’s simplified TFW process

One of the major flexibilities announced is the increase in the list of occupations eligible for Quebec’s simplified Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs) process.

As of May 24, 2022, the list will increase from 32 to 65 eligible occupations, easing the burden on many companies facing major labour shortages. These additions will include several occupations that were previously announced by the Quebec government, including orderlies, truck drivers, machine operators and industrial butchers.

Increase in the annual hiring rate in 7 sectors affected by labour shortages

As of April 30, 2022, employers offering low-wage positions in 7 sectors affected by labour shortages will see their annual hiring rate increase to 30%. These 7 sectors include accommodation, food services, construction, hospitals, food manufacturing, wood products, etc.

The 20% annual hiring rate will apply to all other low wage employers until further notice.

Ending the policy of denying LMIAs in areas with 6% unemployment

The government will end the policy of automatically denying LMIA applications in areas where unemployment is 6% or higher for low-wage occupations in the restaurant, accommodation and retail sectors as of April 30, 2022.

Unlimited Hiring of Seasonal Workers and Increased Maximum Employment Period for Seasonal Workers

Employers in seasonal industries will now be able to hire as many low-wage foreign seasonal workers as needed to address existing labour shortages.

In addition, these foreign seasonal workers will also be able to be hired for up to 270 days of employment per year effective immediately.

Increasing the maximum employment period for high-wage workers and global talent

Effective immediately, high wage workers and global talent will see an increase in their maximum employment duration to three years, allowing them to participate in the Canadian workforce on a long-term basis and potentially benefit from permanent residency.

REMINDER: End of mandatory screening tests for fully vaccinated travellers entering Canada

As of April 1, 2022, fully vaccinated travellers entering Canada will no longer be required to present a negative COVID-19 test upon entry.

However, vaccinated travellers may be randomly selected for mandatory testing upon arrival, but are not required to quarantine until they receive their test results.

Entry into Canada for unvaccinated travellers who meet the entry requirements remains unchanged. The fourteen (14) day quarantine is still applicable as well as a PCR test upon arrival, followed by another test on day eight of the quarantine.

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