Canada has imposed stricter regulations on its Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), raising concerns among skilled foreign workers, including many Nigerians, who now face an increased risk of deportation due to tougher hiring requirements.
Under the new rules, employers are required to offer wages for high-skilled foreign workers that are at least 20% above the regional median wage. Additionally, businesses can now only fill up to 10% of low-wage positions with foreign workers.
These changes, which took effect between September and November 2024, are aimed at prioritizing Canadian citizens for available jobs. Furthermore, the government has reclassified approximately 34,000 positions from the high-wage category to the low-wage stream, subjecting more foreign workers to stricter oversight, fewer benefits, and greater job insecurity.
Employers in sectors such as hospitality, construction, and agriculture have expressed concerns that the new policies are forcing them to reduce their reliance on foreign workers or avoid renewing contracts due to rising labor costs. For temporary foreign workers, this could mean the expiration of their permits without the possibility of renewal and limited options for securing new qualifying job offers, leading to the risk of deportation.
The wage increases and hiring caps are also altering Canada’s reputation as a prime destination for skilled international talent. Critics argue that these policies could deter future applicants, disrupt seasonal and travel employment, and lead to a loss of essential labor.
While the Canadian government maintains that the reforms aim to protect domestic jobs, businesses and migrant advocacy groups are calling for a more balanced approach that acknowledges the significant role foreign workers play in sustaining the country’s economy.
