To address the growing issue of immigration agencies and employers abusing the TFW Program and ensure it serves legitimate market needs, the Canadian federal government announced new enforcement measures on August 6, 2024. While these measures are still pending finalization, be aware that potential changes could make it more challenging to apply for LMIAs in high-risk areas, particularly for small businesses offering low-wage jobs.
Potential Changes
| Current Status | Possible Changes |
| LMIA supporting 1-year work permit | 20% limit on hiring TFWs | 20% limit on hiring TFWs |
| Dual intent LMIA supporting 2-years work permit and permanent residence application (IEK clients) | No limit on hiring TFWs | Possible 20% limit on hiring TFWs |
| LMIA for permanent residency only | No limit on hiring TFWs
| Possible 20% limit on hiring TFWs |
| LMIA fee | 1000 CAD | Possible increase |
Regulatory changes for employer eligibility
| Fines | -Increased fines and prison sentences -Refusal to process LMIAs -Penalties for immigration agencies and employers involved in buying and selling LMIAs |
If these changes are officially implemented, IEK will handle LMIA applications in a manner that adheres to the 20% cap policy and will continue with High Wage applications. For those who are not IEK clients and are working with agencies or employers who have been misusing the TFW Program, please be aware that applying for PR in the future will likely become more challenging. IEK believes that certain occupations, including ECEs, will be less affected by these changes, while LMIAs for Non-Skilled occupations will likely be subject to these new regulations. It is highly likely that these changes will apply to service jobs, such as those in the hospitality and food industries, which are not considered in-demand occupations.
Since the above information is not yet officially confirmed, please do not worry even if you are currently working on an LMIA. IEK is committed to adhering to the new requirements and will manage and update the process accordingly. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all institutions and immigration agencies that have been working with honesty and integrity.
Lastly, IEK sincerely appreciates all IEK clients for their ongoing trust.
-IEK Immigration Consutling Inc.-
To address the growing issue of immigration agencies and employers abusing the TFW Program and ensure it serves legitimate market needs, the Canadian federal government announced new enforcement measures on August 6, 2024. While these measures are still pending finalization, be aware that potential changes could make it more challenging to apply for LMIAs in high-risk areas, particularly for small businesses offering low-wage jobs.
Potential Changes
-Increased fines and prison sentences
-Refusal to process LMIAs
-Penalties for immigration agencies and employers involved in buying and selling LMIAs
If these changes are officially implemented, IEK will handle LMIA applications in a manner that adheres to the 20% cap policy and will continue with High Wage applications. For those who are not IEK clients and are working with agencies or employers who have been misusing the TFW Program, please be aware that applying for PR in the future will likely become more challenging. IEK believes that certain occupations, including ECEs, will be less affected by these changes, while LMIAs for Non-Skilled occupations will likely be subject to these new regulations. It is highly likely that these changes will apply to service jobs, such as those in the hospitality and food industries, which are not considered in-demand occupations.
Since the above information is not yet officially confirmed, please do not worry even if you are currently working on an LMIA. IEK is committed to adhering to the new requirements and will manage and update the process accordingly. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all institutions and immigration agencies that have been working with honesty and integrity.
Lastly, IEK sincerely appreciates all IEK clients for their ongoing trust.
-IEK Immigration Consutling Inc.-