Canada has introduced stricter rules in its Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), raising concerns among skilled foreign workers, including many Nigerians, who now face greater risks of deportation due to tighter hiring conditions.
Under the new regulations, employers must raise wages for high-skilled foreign hires to at least 20% above the regional median wage. Companies can now only fill a maximum of 10% of low-wage roles with foreign workers.
These reforms, which took effect between September and November 2024, are designed to prioritize Canadian citizens for available jobs.
The government has also reclassified an estimated 34,000 positions from high-wage to low-wage, exposing more foreign workers to stricter oversight, fewer benefits, and increased job insecurity.
Many employers, particularly in hospitality, construction, and agriculture, said the changes force them to scale back foreign hires or avoid renewing contracts due to rising labour costs.
For temporary foreign workers, expiring permits without renewal and limited options to secure new qualifying job offers can lead to deportation.
Canada’s reputation is also reshaping caps and wage hikes as a top destination for skilled international talent.
Critics warned that the policies may deter future applicants, disrupt travel and seasonal employment sectors, and trigger a loss of much-needed labour.
While the Canadian government insisted the reforms protect domestic employment, businesses and migrant advocacy groups are urging a more balanced approach that recognizes foreign workers play in sustaining the country’s economy.
