Canada to Review Foreign Worker Program, Maintains System

Canada Pledges Temporary Foreign Worker Programme Review, Rejects Abolition.Prime Minister Mark Carney confirmed a review of Canada’s immigration system. This includes the Temporary Foreign Worker Programme. The review follows sharp criticism from opposition leaders.Carney stated the programme will not be scrapped. He acknowledged it requires improvement. The government aims to reduce temporary resident levels.

Political Pressure Mounts on Immigration Policy

Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre demanded the programme’s abolition. He accused the government of issuing a record number of permits. Poilievre cited high youth unemployment and suppressed wages.According to Conservative data, 105,000 new TFW permits were issued in early 2025. This figure reportedly exceeds the government’s promised annual cap. The International Mobility Programme also saw higher-than-targeted numbers.Immigration officials provided context for these numbers. They stated the figures include both new visas and renewals. New visas alone represented 42% of the annual target.

Government Defends Programme’s Role in Canadian Economy

Prime Minister Carney defended the programme’s necessity. He stated it remains a top concern for Canadian businesses. This is second only to U.S. tariff policies.Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) responded to the claims. The department is committed to sustainable immigration levels. They aim to reduce the temporary population to below five percent.Official data shows a decrease in new temporary workers. IRCC reported 125,903 fewer arrivals in early 2025 compared to 2024. The government’s full immigration plan is expected this fall.

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The government’s balancing act continues. It must support economic needs while addressing public concern. The future of the Temporary Foreign Worker Programme hinges on this delicate review.

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What is the Temporary Foreign Worker Programme?

It is a programme allowing Canadian employers to hire foreign nationals. This addresses temporary labour shortages. Workers come for specific jobs and durations.

Why is the programme being reviewed?

The review responds to criticism over high intake levels. Concerns include its impact on the domestic job market and wage suppression. The government aims for a more sustainable system.

What is the current cap for temporary foreign workers?

The government set an annual cap of 82,000 for the TFW programme. Opponents claim issuance is on track to far exceed that number based on mid-year data.

How does the TFW programme differ from the IMP?

The International Mobility Programme (IMP) covers workers exempt from a labour market impact assessment. This includes trade agreements and youth mobility. The TFW programme requires an assessment proving no Canadian is available.

Has the number of temporary workers decreased?

Yes. According to IRCC, there were 125,903 fewer new temporary workers in the first half of 2025. This is compared to the same period in 2024.