Canadian Lawmaker Launches Petition to End Temporary Foreign Worker Program

Key Takeaways

• Conservative MP Jamil Jivani petitioned to end TFWP except Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program in May 2025.
• TFWP reforms include reduced low-wage caps, shorter 6-month LMIA validity, and higher wage thresholds since 2024.
• Youth unemployment reached 14% in April 2025, fueling debate over TFWP’s impact on Canadian jobs.

Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) has long played a central role in the country’s approach to managing labor shortages, especially in sectors where Canadian citizens and permanent residents are not filling available jobs. However, recent developments—including a petition launched by Conservative Member of Parliament Jamil Jivani to end the TFWP (with the exception of the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program)—have brought the program’s future into sharp focus. This analysis examines the current state of the TFWP, recent policy changes, the arguments for and against its continuation, and the practical implications for workers, employers, and the Canadian economy.

Purpose and Scope

This analysis aims to provide a clear, detailed overview of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program in Canada 🇨🇦, focusing on:

• The purpose and structure of the TFWP and the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program
• Recent policy changes and their practical effects
• The context and impact of Jamil Jivani’s petition to end the TFWP
• Key data, trends, and stakeholder perspectives
• Evidence-based conclusions about the program’s future and its effects on different groups

The goal is to help readers understand the complexities of the TFWP debate and what the latest changes mean for those involved.

Methodology

This content is based on a careful review of recent government announcements, official statistics, statements from key stakeholders, and analysis from trusted sources such as VisaVerge.com. Data points include official targets, unemployment rates, and policy timelines. The analysis draws on both quantitative data and qualitative perspectives to present a balanced, fact-based view.

Key Findings (Summary)

• Petition to End TFWP: Conservative MP Jamil Jivani launched a petition on May 23, 2025, calling for the end of the TFWP, except for the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program.
• Recent Reforms: The Canadian government has introduced several reforms to the TFWP, including a reduced cap on low-wage workers, shorter LMIA validity, and higher wage thresholds.
• Program Target: The TFWP target for 2025 is set at 82,000 workers, not counting seasonal agricultural workers.
• Youth Unemployment: The youth unemployment rate in Canada 🇨🇦 reached 14% in April 2025, fueling debate about the impact of temporary foreign workers on local job opportunities.
• Policy Changes for Workers: As of May 27, 2025, temporary foreign workers can start new jobs while their work permit applications are pending, providing more flexibility and financial stability.

Data Presentation and Visual Descriptions

To help readers picture the current landscape, here are key data points and visual descriptions:

TFWP Worker Numbers (2025 Target)

• Total TFWP (excluding seasonal workers): 82,000
• Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program: Not included in the above target; continues as a separate stream due to its importance for agriculture.

Visual Description: Imagine a bar chart with two main bars—one representing the 82,000 TFWP workers (excluding seasonal) and another, slightly taller, representing the total number of foreign workers when seasonal agricultural workers are included. The seasonal bar is highlighted to show its unique status.

Youth Unemployment Rate

• April 2025: 14%

Visual Description: Picture a line graph showing the youth unemployment rate over the past five years, with a noticeable uptick in 2025, reaching the 14% mark. This spike is often cited in debates about the TFWP.

LMIA Validity Period

• Spring 2024: Reduced from 12 months to 6 months

Visual Description: A timeline showing the LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) validity period shrinking, with a bold marker at spring 2024 when the change took effect.

Wage Threshold Increase

• November 8, 2024: Minimum wage threshold for the TFWP’s High-Wage stream increased to 20% above the provincial or territorial median hourly wage.

Visual Description: A side-by-side comparison of the old and new wage thresholds, with the new threshold clearly higher, signaling a push to ensure foreign workers are paid well above the local average.

Background: What Are the TFWP and Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program?

The Temporary Foreign Worker Program allows Canadian employers to hire foreign workers for jobs when qualified Canadians or permanent residents are not available. The program covers a range of sectors, including hospitality, construction, caregiving, and agriculture.

The Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program is a special stream within the TFWP. It lets employers bring in workers from certain countries for seasonal farm work. This stream is seen as essential for Canada’s 🇨🇦 food supply and is not included in the proposed petition to end the TFWP.

Recent Policy Changes: What’s New?

Several important changes have been made to the TFWP in the past year:

1. Temporary Public Policy for Job Changes

• Effective May 27, 2025: Temporary foreign workers can start new jobs while their work permit applications are being processed.
• Purpose: This change helps workers avoid unemployment gaps and gives them more financial stability.
• For Employers: Makes it easier to hire workers already in Canada 🇨🇦, speeding up the hiring process.

2. TFWP Reforms

• Reduced Cap on Low-Wage Workers: The government has lowered the number of low-wage positions that can be filled through the TFWP.
• Employment Duration Limits: There are now stricter limits on how long a worker can stay in Canada 🇨🇦 under the program.
• 2025 Target: The program aims for 82,000 workers, not counting those in the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program.

3. LMIA Validity Period Reduction

• Spring 2024: The Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) validity period was cut from 12 months to 6 months.
• Impact: Employers must act more quickly to hire foreign workers after receiving an LMIA.

4. Wage Threshold Increase

• November 8, 2024: The minimum wage for high-wage TFWP positions is now set at 20% above the median hourly wage in each province or territory.
• Goal: To ensure foreign workers are paid fairly and to discourage employers from using the program to lower wages.

Step-by-Step: How Temporary Foreign Workers Change Jobs

The new temporary public policy makes it easier for workers to move between jobs. Here’s how the process works:

1. Secure a Job Offer: The worker must first get a job offer from a Canadian employer under the TFWP or International Mobility Program.
2. Apply for a Work Permit: The worker submits a work permit application for the new job. The official application form can be found on the Government of Canada’s website.
3. Begin Work: Under the new policy, the worker can start working for the new employer while the application is still being processed.

This process helps workers avoid long periods without income and allows employers to fill positions more quickly.

Stakeholder Perspectives: Support and Opposition

Support for Ending the TFWP

• Jamil Jivani’s Petition: Conservative MP Jamil Jivani argues that the TFWP should end (except for the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program) because it contributes to unsustainable immigration levels and makes it harder for young Canadians to find jobs.
• Job Protection: Supporters believe ending the TFWP would protect Canadian jobs, especially for youth, and address the high 14% youth unemployment rate.
• Wage Concerns: Some critics say the TFWP allows employers to keep wages low, making it harder for Canadians to earn a fair wage.

Opposition to Ending the TFWP

• Industry Needs: Many industries, especially agriculture, rely on temporary foreign workers to fill jobs that Canadians are not taking.
• Economic Impact: Ending the TFWP could hurt businesses that depend on foreign labor, leading to higher costs and possible shortages.
• Government Position: Employment Minister Patty Hajdu has said that while the TFWP needs adjustments, it remains important for sectors like agriculture.

Comparisons, Trends, and Patterns

Trends in TFWP Usage

• Shift Toward Agriculture: Over time, the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program has become a larger share of total temporary foreign workers, reflecting ongoing labor shortages in farming.
• Tighter Controls: The government has steadily introduced stricter rules, such as shorter LMIA validity and higher wage thresholds, to ensure the program is used only when truly needed.

Patterns in Unemployment and Labor Shortages

• Youth Unemployment: The 14% youth unemployment rate in April 2025 is higher than in previous years, fueling concerns about job competition.
• Labor Shortages: Despite high unemployment among youth, some sectors still struggle to find workers, especially for physically demanding or seasonal jobs.

Wage Patterns

• Rising Wage Thresholds: By raising the minimum wage for TFWP positions, the government aims to make these jobs more attractive to Canadians and ensure fair pay for foreign workers.

Evidence-Based Conclusions

Based on the data and perspectives presented:

• The TFWP is Not Ending Yet: While the petition led by Jamil Jivani has sparked debate, the government’s current approach is to reform, not abolish, the program. The Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program remains untouched due to its importance.
• Reforms Aim for Balance: Recent changes—such as higher wage thresholds and shorter LMIA validity—are designed to ensure the TFWP supports genuine labor market needs without undercutting Canadian workers.
• Ongoing Debate: The high youth unemployment rate and concerns about wage suppression keep the TFWP under scrutiny. However, many industries argue that without foreign workers, they would face serious labor shortages.
• Flexibility for Workers: The new policy allowing workers to start new jobs while waiting for permit approval is a positive step for worker rights and financial security.

Limitations

• Data Gaps: Some statistics, such as the exact number of workers in the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program, are not included in the available data.
• Changing Policies: Immigration policies can change quickly, so the information presented here reflects the latest updates as of June 2025.
• Stakeholder Bias: Both supporters and opponents of the TFWP have strong views, which can shape how data is interpreted.

Practical Guidance and Next Steps

For those affected by these changes:

• Temporary Foreign Workers: If you are considering changing jobs, review the new policy and ensure you follow the correct steps. The official work permit application page provides up-to-date forms and instructions.
• Employers: Stay informed about the latest TFWP requirements, including wage thresholds and LMIA validity. The Employment and Social Development Canada website offers official guidance.
• Job Seekers in Canada 🇨🇦: Monitor job postings and consider sectors where labor shortages are most acute. Higher wage thresholds may make some TFWP jobs more attractive to Canadians.

Official Resources

For more information, visit the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website for authoritative updates on the Temporary Foreign Worker Program and related policies.

Final Thoughts

The debate over the Temporary Foreign Worker Program, highlighted by Jamil Jivani’s petition, reflects deeper questions about Canada’s 🇨🇦 approach to immigration, labor markets, and economic growth. While reforms continue, the program remains a vital tool for many employers and a source of opportunity for workers from around the world. As reported by VisaVerge.com, the government’s focus is on finding a balance—protecting Canadian jobs while meeting real labor needs. The coming months will be critical in shaping the future of the TFWP and the role of foreign workers in Canada’s economy.

Learn Today

Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) → Canada’s program allowing employers to hire foreign workers when Canadians are unavailable for certain jobs.
Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program → A TFWP stream enabling foreign workers to do seasonal farm work essential for Canada’s agriculture.
Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) → Official document proving no qualified Canadians available for the job, required for most TFWP hires.
Work Permit → Government authorization allowing foreign workers to legally work in Canada under specific conditions.
Wage Threshold → Minimum required salary level for TFWP jobs, increased to ensure fair pay above local median wages.

This Article in a Nutshell

Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker Program faces reform and debate, balancing labor shortages and youth unemployment. New policies ease job transitions for workers pending permits, maintaining vital labor supply while addressing fair wages and economic concerns amid calls for program termination excluding agricultural workers.
— By VisaVerge.com