Process of Coming to Canada through the Low Wage Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) with LMIA

Step 1: Understanding the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)

The Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) allows Canadian employers to hire foreign nationals to fill temporary labor and skill shortages. The Low Wage Stream is a category under the TFWP that targets positions with wages below the provincial or territorial median hourly wage.

Step 2: Obtaining a Positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)

A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a document that an employer in Canada may need to get before hiring a foreign worker. A positive LMIA will show that there is a need for a foreign worker to fill the job and that no Canadian worker or permanent resident is available to do the job.

Steps for the Employer:

1. Job Posting: The employer must advertise the job vacancy in Canada for at least 4 weeks to prove that there are no Canadians available to fill the position.

2. Submit LMIA Application: The employer submits the LMIA application to Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), including proof of recruitment efforts and details about the job offer.

3. Await LMIA Decision: ESDC reviews the application and makes a decision. A positive LMIA indicates that hiring a foreign worker will have a positive or neutral impact on the Canadian labor market.

Step 3: Foreign Worker Application

Once the employer receives a positive LMIA, the foreign worker can apply for a work permit.

Steps for the Foreign Worker:

1. Gather Documents: Prepare all required documents, including the positive LMIA, job offer letter, and any other required documentation.

2. Apply for Work Permit: Submit the work permit application to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) either online or at a visa application center.

3. Biometrics: Provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo) as part of the application process.

4. Medical Exam: Undergo a medical examination if required.

5. Await Decision: IRCC will review the application and make a decision. If approved, the foreign worker will receive a work permit to work in Canada.

Step 4: Arriving in Canada

Once the work permit is approved, the foreign worker can travel to Canada.

Steps Upon Arrival:

1. Present Documents at Port of Entry: Present your work permit approval letter, passport, and other supporting documents to the immigration officer.

2. Receive Work Permit: The immigration officer will issue the work permit at the port of entry.

Application Requirements

1. From the Employer:

   - Proof of recruitment efforts (job advertisements, interview records, etc.)

   - Completed LMIA application form

   - Detailed job offer letter

   - Business legitimacy documents (business license, financial statements, etc.)

2. From the Foreign Worker:

   - Positive LMIA from the employer

   - Job offer letter from the Canadian employer

   - Completed work permit application form

   - Passport and copies of passport pages

   - Photographs that meet IRCC specifications

   - Proof of financial support

   - Biometrics (fingerprints and photo)

   - Medical exam results (if required)

   - Police clearance certificates (if required)

   - Payment of application fees

It's advisable to consult with an immigration lawyer or consultant for personalized guidance and to ensure all requirements are met correctly.