Why are employers hiring foreign workers in Canada?
Employers in Canada may choose to hire foreign workers to fill labor shortages in specific skilled positions where Canadian citizens or permanent residents are unavailable. This approach helps sustain economic growth, introduces diverse skills and perspectives into the workforce, and can bridge gaps in sectors facing skill shortages. Moreover, hiring foreign workers supports Canada's immigration objectives by facilitating the entry of skilled individuals who contribute to the Canadian economy.
The main point for hiring foreign workers, as outlined by the Canadian government, focuses on addressing skilled labor shortages by supporting the permanent residency of higher-skilled foreign workers. Employers can make job offers under specific economic immigration programs, such as the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, and Canadian Experience Class, to help foreign workers become economically established in Canada. This process aims to fill positions when qualified Canadians or permanent residents are not available, contributing to Canada's labor market needs and economic growth.
Main points often highlighted about hiring foreign workers:
Access to a Broader Talent Pool: Employers can find highly skilled individuals with unique expertise that might be scarce in the local job market.
Cultural Diversity: Bringing in workers from different backgrounds can enhance creativity and innovation within a team by introducing new perspectives and problem-solving approaches.
Filling Skill Gaps: Foreign workers can fill roles that are in high demand but have a shortage of local talent, especially in industries like technology, healthcare, and engineering.
Competitive Advantage: Companies that are globally oriented may benefit from hiring individuals who understand and can navigate the cultural nuances of foreign markets.
Economic Contributions: Foreign workers can contribute to the economy by increasing productivity, participating in the local economy, and paying taxes.
How to hire foreign workers?
Most employers must apply for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) online through Service Canada, authorizing the company to hire a foreign worker. The company needs to prove that it requires an employee for the specific work position, no Canadian citizen or permanent resident is available to perform the duties, the company is active and in good standing with no outstanding government or provincial taxes, and explain why they want to hire the specific foreign worker. They must also present proof of all the aforementioned points, including financial stability and the ability to pay the employee.
After a company receives LMIA approval, the foreign worker needs to apply for work permit based on the LMIA approval number. This is separate application and this time the government will check the employer profile and approve or deny his work permit.
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