Canada’s Recognized Employer Work Permit Program Opens Doors to 84 New Jobs

Canadian employers, aiming to bring foreign nationals into the country under the streamlined Recognized Employer Pilot (REP), are now equipped with a significantly expanded list of 84 new eligible occupations.

In its initial phase, the REP concentrated on the agricultural sector, limiting employers to four occupations. However, the second phase marks a substantial leap, opening the door to 84 eligible occupations and providing extended validity periods of up to 36 months for positive LMIA decisions.

The Extensive List of Eligible Occupations Under REP’s Second Phase

Under the newly expanded REP, employers can now benefit from a diverse pool of eligible occupations, experiencing simplified LMIA applications for additional workers. While the list is extensive, showcasing 84 occupations, a comprehensive display isn’t feasible within this context.

Here’s a Glimpse into the Variety of Occupations Now Covered

And many more.

ESDC’s Proactive Approach and Application Process

Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) has proactively engaged employers meeting REP eligibility criteria. Utilizing a dual-purpose LMIA application, distinct from the regular LMIA process, ESDC evaluates each employer’s REP eligibility based on their track record with the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). Even if an employer doesn’t secure recognized status, they can still leverage the TFWP, subject to standard LMIA assessments.

Seamless Application Methods for Employers

Employers have two streamlined methods for applying:

1. LMIA Online Portal: Employers can use this secure platform to complete and submit online applications to ESDC.
2. Email Submission: For those exempt from the LMIA online portal, a PDF application form can be emailed to ESDC, provided there’s proof of a valid exemption.

Benefits Unleashed by REP Status

REP status opens doors for employers, offering:

• A simplified application process for future LMIA applications related to positions on the Canadian Occupational Projection System (COPS) list.
• Fewer points of contact between employers and ESDC, courtesy of simplified LMIA forms, enabling the hiring of more temporary foreign workers.
• A coveted Jobbank designation, showcasing recognized status to facilitate the recruitment of prospective workers.

Economic Immigration Through TFWP and IMP

Beyond the REP, Canadian employers can tap into the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) and the International Mobility Program (IMP) for economic immigration programs. The Global Talent Stream (GTS), a TFWP component, expedites Canadian work permit grants and visa application processing within two weeks under standard circumstances.

Express Entry, another avenue, enables employers to bring in foreign nationals through the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW), Federal Skilled Trades Program (FST), and Canada Experience Class Program (CEC). Express Entry draws from a pool of candidates, issuing Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to those meeting Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score requirements in regular draws.

The Temporary Worker Recruitment

The expansion of Canada’s Recognized Employer Work Permit Program signifies a pivotal shift in the landscape of temporary worker recruitment. With an extensive array of new 84 eligible occupations and streamlined application processes, Canadian employers are poised to unlock new opportunities and contribute to the nation’s workforce diversity. As the program continues to evolve, it promises to be a game-changer in the realm of economic immigration.

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