Canada Boosts Wages for Temporary Foreign Worker Visas
By Policy & Government Announcements, , , ,

Canada’s New Wage Standards for Foreign Workers: What You Need to Know

If you’re considering moving to Canada for work, you’ll want to keep an eye on the latest changes to the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). These updates, effective from June 2025, aim to ensure fair wages and working conditions for newcomers like you.

What are the New Wage Rules?

Canada has adjusted its wage thresholds for the TFWP. Employers must now meet the updated provincial and territorial median wage rates to qualify for the high-wage stream. If a job offers a wage below these thresholds, it will be classified as low-wage, which comes with additional responsibilities for employers.

For low-wage positions, employers must provide essential support such as housing and transportation for workers. These changes reflect Canada’s commitment to protecting foreign workers from exploitation and aligning their wages with Canadian standards.

Why Does This Matter for Job Seekers?

These updates significantly impact hiring plans, particularly in sectors that rely heavily on foreign labour, such as agriculture and hospitality. If you’re looking for job opportunities in these areas, understanding the wage thresholds can guide you in negotiating your salary and assessing your options.

Understanding Wage Thresholds by Province

Across Canada, wage thresholds have been updated. For example, Alberta now has a new high-wage threshold of CAD 36 per hour, up from CAD 35.40. Similarly, British Columbia’s new threshold is CAD 36.60, reflecting a modest increase intended to meet living standards. Familiarising yourself with province-specific thresholds can help you target your job search more effectively.

The Path to Work Permits in Canada

If you decide to pursue job opportunities in Canada, you may be exploring pathways for visa sponsorship and permanent residency (PR). The TFWP typically involves employer sponsorship, meaning an employer must actively seek to hire you to qualify for various work permits.

Understanding terms like LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) can also be crucial. This process allows employers to demonstrate that hiring a foreign worker won’t negatively affect the Canadian job market.

Another option is the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), which allows provinces to nominate individuals for PR based on local labour market needs. Both paths can lead you toward a successful transition to life in Canada.

What do you think?

Have a question about this topic or your own plans to move to Canada? Scroll down and leave a comment. We’d love to hear from you.

This article was adapted from an external news source for our readers’ benefit. The original version is available here.

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