Canada Plans 6 Big Changes to Work Permit Program—Here’s What You Need to Know
Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) is set to undergo major reforms, with six significant changes proposed by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). These reforms aim to modernize the system, balancing employer needs and worker protections, but critics say the changes fall short of truly addressing the vulnerabilities faced by migrant workers.
Internal ESDC documents obtained through public consultation reveal that these changes were proposed after feedback from both employer associations and labor advocacy groups throughout 2024–2025. The reforms impact wages, housing, healthcare, transportation, and work permit structure.
What Are the 6 Major Proposed Changes?
- Sector-Specific Work Permits (New Category):
Workers in agriculture and fish processing will be allowed to move between employers within the same industry under a two-year sector-specific permit. This is meant to offer more flexibility than current employer-tied permits. However, a new job offer is still required, raising concerns about continued employer control. - Wage Deductions for Employers:
Employers will be allowed to deduct costs for housing, utilities, and transportation directly from workers’ pay, potentially reducing their net income by thousands annually. While this benefits employers, it may lead to financial stress for already low-paid workers. - Relaxed Housing Standards:
Proposed changes would eliminate indoor temperature regulations in work environments like greenhouses and processing plants. These safety protections were originally introduced to reduce heat-related health risks. - Flexible Transportation Rules:
Employers may get more leeway in deciding how to provide transport to and from job sites. Critics argue this could result in unreliable or unsafe transportation, especially in rural or remote areas. - Vague Health Care Responsibilities:
The proposal lacks clarity on employer obligations regarding workers’ access to health care. There are concerns that workers in isolated regions may struggle to access adequate medical services. - Simplified LMIA and Admin Processes:
To reduce red tape, the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) process and other administrative steps may be simplified, which could speed up hiring for employers.
Criticism from Advocacy Groups
The Migrant Rights Network, a national advocacy coalition, has sharply criticized these proposals. In their July 30 report, they argue that:
- Sector-specific permits are a “cosmetic rebranding” of closed permits, offering only the illusion of mobility.
- Employer blacklisting may continue, discouraging workers from speaking out or leaving exploitative situations.
- The reforms do not address access to permanent residency, a key issue for migrant workers.
- The lack of real protections perpetuates the power imbalance, leaving workers dependent on employers for their legal status.
Executive Director Syed Hussan emphasized, “These are incremental changes that don’t fix the root problem. Canada needs open work permits and direct paths to permanent residency.”
Why It Matters
The Temporary Foreign Worker Program currently supports:
- 106,000 workers
- 7,400 employers
Yet critics, including the United Nations, have labeled parts of the program as enabling “modern slavery.” Previous reforms introduced in 2022 focused on stricter housing and deduction rules. This latest proposal may undo some of those safeguards.
CAD Immigration Can Help You Navigate These Changes
With new rules and unclear policies on the horizon, migrants and employers need professional guidance now more than ever.
Don’t take risks by handling immigration matters on your own.
CAD Immigration is here to help—with licensed consultants, expert legal advice, and personalized services tailored to your situation.
We’ll guide you through:
- Choosing the right work permit
- Understanding new sector-based rules
- Ensuring employer compliance
- Exploring PR pathways and appeal options
For a consultation about Immigration options, reach out to the CAD IMMIGRATION today!
