Canada to Revise Temporary Foreign Worker Visa Program

By Visa Jobs CanadaSeptember 11, 2025Policy & Government AnnouncementsCanada immigration, Canadian labour market, Temporary Foreign Worker Program, visa sponsorship, work permits

The Canadian government is making some important changes to the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), which allows employers to hire foreign nationals. This program typically requires a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to ensure that hiring a foreign worker won’t negatively impact job opportunities for Canadians. Recently, there have been several restrictions aimed at refining its use and focusing on specific needs within the Canadian job market.

Prime Minister Mark Carney recently addressed these changes, highlighting that the TFWP should target particular sectors and regions that require skilled labour. Although he didn’t provide specific details, it’s clear that the government is committed to ensuring that this program works effectively for both employers and local communities.

However, the TFWP has faced criticism, particularly from Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre, who argues that it limits job opportunities for Canadians and has called for its cancellation. This debate underscores the importance of balancing the need for skilled workers with the job prospects for Canadians.

In the past year and a half, the Canadian government has implemented several measures to adjust the TFWP. For instance, they have set a target of 82,000 new TFWP admissions for 2025 and established a moratorium on processing LMIAs for low-wage positions in areas with unemployment rates above 6%. They’ve also increased the wage threshold for high-wage positions to 20% above the regional median, making it more attractive for employers to offer competitive salaries.

Additionally, there are new caps on the percentage of a company’s workforce that can be employed through the TFWP. These changes aim to ensure that the program doesn’t disproportionately favour the hiring of foreign workers at the expense of Canadian job seekers.

Another area seeing changes is the spousal open work permits (SOWPs). These permits are now restricted to spouses of workers in specific high-demand jobs—particularly those classified as TEER 0 or 1 (these are top-tier jobs requiring high skill levels) and certain TEER 2 and 3 positions. To qualify, the TFWP holder must have at least 16 months remaining on their work permit, creating a tighter link between job stability and spousal employment.

Recent government statistics reveal that the issuance of work permits dropped significantly—by 50% from January to June 2025 compared to the previous year. During this time, only 33,722 new TFWP permits were granted.

For international job seekers eyeing opportunities in Canada, understanding these changes is crucial. While the TFWP provides a pathway for skilled workers to find employment, the evolving landscape of Canadian immigration policies means you’ll want to stay informed about any requirements or restrictions that may affect your plans.

If you’re considering making the move to Canada and are looking for job opportunities that include visa sponsorship, we specialize in listing positions that offer this crucial support. Every job posting on our website, VisaJobsCanada.com, is tailored for international applicants, ensuring you have viable options as you navigate your career and immigration journey.

As policy shifts continue, remember to keep an eye on the Canadian job market. Whether you’re pursuing permanent residency (PR) or researching options like the Express Entry system, being adaptable and well-informed will help you successfully transition into the Canadian workforce.