Guide to the Temporary Foreign Worker (TFW) Program
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Apart from their temporary status, TFWs have the same rights as Canadian citizens.
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Overview of the Temporary Worker Program
The Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) allows employers to hire foreign nationals to work in Canada for a specific period. These workers fill labour market gaps when Canadians and permanent residents are unavailable, unwilling, or unable to do the job. They are authorized to enter and stay in the country temporarily, as long as they have the appropriate documentation.
To hire most TFWs, employers must complete the Canadian government’s labour market test, known as the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). The LMIA investigates whether Canadian or permanent resident workers are willing or available to fill the position, its impact on job creation or retention, and potential benefits to Canadian workers. Once it has been determined that a TFW is necessary, employers can ask the candidate to apply for a work permit. For exempted occupations, an LMIA is not necessary. Instead, employers must apply through the International Mobility Program or Francophone Mobility Program (for TFWs outside of Quebec).
The TFWP includes major streams for different labour market needs:
- High Wage Stream – for vacancies offering wages at or above the provincial or territorial median hourly wage.
- Low Wage Stream – for vacancies offering wages below the provincial or territorial median hourly wage.
- Agriculture Stream – for employers hiring on-farm primary agricultural workers i certain commodity sectors.
- Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program – for employers hiring agricultural workers from participating Latin American countries for up to eight months during peak farming periods.
- Global Talent Stream – for employers hiring highly skilled or specialized workers within a shorter timeframe.
- Home Care Provider Stream – for caregiver positions involving the care of children or family members with high medical needs.
- Foreign Academics – for positions that bring new knowledge and expertise to Canadian campuses.
While the program is run by the federal government, each province and territory has its own set of policies that affect its administration. There is no official set maximum time a TFW can work in Canada, though many cannot work for more than four cumulative years without a four-year return to their home country or remaining in Canada without working. However, this depends on several factors, such as the stream of entry, the job offer, the length of time listed on the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), and the expiry date of the workers’ passport.
Temporary foreign workers’ rights
TFWs are protected under the same legislation as any other person living in Canada. As such, TFWs are entitled to employment rights, health and safety protections, and to work in an environment free from abuse and harassment.
Employers must pay foreign workers the same as other co-workers in the same position, treat foreign workers the same way as they would treat a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. That includes following labour laws, complying with workplace safety standards, and maintaining an environment free of discrimination, in accordance with provincial laws and the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
TFWs have access to employment insurance, sickness benefits, maternity leave and other benefits as long as they meet the eligibility criteria. TFWs who have full-time employment for at least six months also have access to publicly funded health care in Ontario.
However, TFWs are not allowed to vote, get a passport, and are restricted from accessing some types of government or community supports.
Impacts of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program in Canada
Canada’s TFWP was first born as a partnership between countries to fill labour market gaps. The Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP) rolled out in 1966, which brought workers for farming jobs. Using the SAWP as a jumping point, the TFWP was officially launched in 1973 to help industries experiencing labour shortages. At first, TFWs were high-skilled workers such as nurses, engineers and other medical specialists. Over time, the program expanded, adding the Live-in Caregiver Program (LCP) in 1992 and a pilot program in 2002 for lower-skilled workers.
Today, the program continues to adapt to Canada’s changing economy. Under the 2026-2028 Immigration Levels Plan, new goals were introduced to ensure immigration follows sustainable levels. These include:
- Limiting the entry of temporary residents (including international students and temporary workers) to 5% of the Canadian population.
- Limiting the low-wage stream of the TFWP to 10% (or 20% in certain in high-demand sectors)
- Stopped accepting low-wage applications in metropolitan areas with at least 6% unemployment.
As a result of these changes, Canada received 48% fewer new workers between January and October 2025 compared to the same period in the previous year.
From its start in the 1960s, foreign workers have come to Canada and helped grow food, support healthcare, care for families, and bring expertise to essential industries. The Temporary Foreign Worker Program have made significant contributions to Canadian economy and society, while adapting to changing priorities. These workers continue to play a vital role in supporting industries and communities to thrive.
Further reading:
Learn more about the Temporary Foreign Worker Program
Temporary foreign workers: Your rights are protected
Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms
Apply for OHIP and get a health card | ontario.ca
Understanding student and temporary worker numbers in Canada – Canada.ca
