Canada: Key Updates to TWFW and Study Permit Applications

The Ministry of Immigration, Francisation and Integration (MIFI) in Quebec has announced significant policy changes affecting both the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) and study permit applications. These adjustments will impact many foreign workers and students seeking opportunities in Quebec, particularly in the Montreal area. Here's what you need to know.

Suspension of Low-Wage Stream LMIA Applications

Effective September 3, 2024, MIFI will suspend the receipt of Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) applications under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program – Low Wage Stream for jobs located in the Island of Montreal. This suspension will remain in effect until March 3, 2025 and applies to all LMIA applications for jobs offering a salary below Quebec’s median wage.

The suspension is intended to manage the temporary resident population in Montreal and Canada more broadly, and to enhance employer compliance with the program's requirements.

Key Details of the Suspension:

Affected Applications: Includes new applications under the low-wage stream, applications submitted under simplified processing, and renewal applications.
Exceptions: Workers in the health, education, construction, agriculture, and food processing sectors are exempt from this suspension and can still apply.
Applications Prior to Deadline: All applications submitted before September 3, 2024 will continue to be processed as usual, so it is crucial for employers and workers to submit their applications before this cutoff.

Impact on Foreign Workers

This temporary suspension will likely have significant impacts on foreign workers in lower-wage positions, especially in Montreal. Workers and employers who rely on the TFWP for positions under the low-wage stream must act swiftly to ensure applications are submitted before the September 3 deadline.

For sectors that are exempt, the program will continue to provide much-needed support, particularly in industries facing labor shortages. However, for others, this suspension may lead to delays in hiring and labor shortages in non-exempt industries.

Limiting Study Permit Applications

In addition to the LMIA changes, MIFI has announced new measures aimed at limiting the number of study permit applications for foreign students in Quebec. Stricter regulations will be introduced on the issuance of Quebec Acceptance Certificates (CAQ) for study permit applicants, making it more difficult for students to pursue education in the province.

A new bill is expected to be introduced in the legislative assembly in the coming months that will further define these changes. These regulations aim to balance the influx of foreign students with the needs of Quebec’s educational system and labor market.

What Does This Mean for Students and Employers?

Students seeking to study in Quebec should be aware of the upcoming changes to the study permit application process. With the expected introduction of stricter CAQ regulations, it may become more challenging to secure study permits, particularly in oversubscribed programs or institutions.

For employers, the temporary suspension of the low-wage stream LMIA applications means it will be crucial to plan ahead. Ensure that any essential foreign workers are hired before the September 3 deadline or explore alternative hiring streams and sectors not affected by the suspension.

Conclusion

These changes signal a significant shift in Quebec's immigration policies. The temporary suspension of low-wage stream LMIA applications and the anticipated tightening of study permit regulations reflect Quebec's effort to better manage temporary immigration, address labor market needs, and improve program compliance.

For workers, students, and employers alike, it is crucial to stay informed and act early to mitigate any disruptions caused by these changes.

About Anywr

Anywr is a French international group specializing in the global talent mobility and international recruitment. The company supports businesses in the search and integration of international talent, offering a complete range of services from sourcing to settlement. Anywr has a network of over 300 consultants in 16 countries. A member of the FrenchTech 120, the group is now composed of nearly 900 employees worldwide, with 400 in France, serving the largest French and international groups. Anywr is an innovative and responsible company, committed to its communities, which puts its expertise and solutions at the service of social integration projects and diversity. ANYWR has adopted the status of a Mission-led Company (Loi Pacte) since June 2021.

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