Canada Raises Wage Thresholds for Foreign Worker Visa

By Visa Jobs CanadaJune 28, 2025Work Visas & LMIA NewsCanada immigration, Temporary Foreign Worker Program, visa sponsorship, wage thresholds, work permits

Big changes are happening in Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), and it’s great news for those considering job opportunities here! Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) has recently raised the wage thresholds for employers and foreign workers, which could impact your journey to securing a job in Canada.

What is the TFWP and the New Changes?

The TFWP is designed to help Canadian employers find foreign workers when they can’t fill positions with local talent. As of June 27, 2025, new wage thresholds will be in effect for Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs), which employers need to apply for when hiring foreign nationals. These thresholds differ by province, with most seeing an increase. For instance, in British Columbia, the threshold now sits at $36.60, a jump of 5.71%!

Understanding where you fit in these thresholds is essential. If your wage meets or exceeds the threshold, your application falls under the high-wage stream. If it’s below, it goes under the low-wage stream. This distinction is important for both job seekers and employers.

Implications for International Job Seekers

With these wage changes, employers in regions with higher unemployment rates may face more restrictions. There’s currently a moratorium in places with unemployment at 6% or higher, meaning LMIAs in the low-wage stream aren’t being processed. If your potential job falls under this category and the wage threshold shifts downward, finding an employer willing to support your work permit application may become more challenging.

Visa Sponsorship and PR Pathways

If you’re looking at visa sponsorship or permanent residency (PR) in Canada, understanding the TFWP is crucial. To apply for Canadian PR, having a job offer through the TFWP could strengthen your chances, especially through programs such as Express Entry. This system allows skilled workers to gain permanent residency, and having a valid job offer can boost your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, which is how candidates are ranked.

Additionally, several provinces have their own immigration streams, known as Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). These allow provinces to nominate individuals for PR based on local labour market needs. Having work experience through the TFWP may also open doors to a PNP application.

Key Takeaways

In summary, staying informed about wage thresholds in the TFWP will help you navigate your job search and immigration options in Canada. Always consider how these factors can influence your eligibility for visa sponsorship and permanent residency.