The Canadian travel and tourism sector, once shaken by the pandemic, is undergoing a workforce transformation, led in part by the growing role of non-permanent residents. From international students to temporary foreign workers, these individuals are helping the industry recover, adapt, and move forward in a time of labour shortages and economic shifts.

Let’s dive into how Canada’s travel industry has changed since 2019 and why non-permanent residents are becoming essential to its future.

A Post-Pandemic Comeback with a New Face

The travel and accommodation sector was one of the hardest hit during COVID-19. Nationwide lockdowns and international travel restrictions caused a dramatic drop in revenues and job losses. In fact, employment in this industry was still 14.7% below pre-pandemic levels in 2023.

Yet, while business picked up again in 2022 and 2023, recovery came with a twist: fewer Canadian workers returned to these roles. Instead, more non-permanent residents, especially temporary foreign workers and international students stepped in to fill the gaps.

This shift wasn’t random. Canada’s aging population and the part-time nature of travel jobs made it hard to attract full-time, long-term workers. With local talent stretched thin, employers began relying more on temporary workers who could meet seasonal and short-term demands.

The Role of Non-Permanent Residents in the Travel Workforce

In 2023, non-permanent residents made up 8.1% of the travel arrangement and reservation services workforce, the highest level since 2017. This number might seem small, but it reflects a critical trend that’s influencing hiring strategies across the country.

Let’s break down why non-permanent residents are becoming key players in this sector:

1. Labour Shortages

• Many Canadian workers left the industry during the pandemic and haven’t returned.
• A large share of the remaining workforce is nearing retirement.

2. Work Flexibility

International students and temporary workers often seek part-time or flexible jobs, aligning perfectly with seasonal demand in travel and tourism.

3. Skilled & Diverse Workforce

Non-permanent residents bring language skills and international experience, which is especially helpful in a customer-facing industry.

Key Workforce Trends: Who’s Working in Travel Now?

Let’s look at who’s working in the travel arrangement and reservation services sector today.

Younger workers are more commonly found in tour operator roles, while older employees dominate travel agency positions. With many younger Canadians preferring tech-related jobs or remote work, attracting them back to tourism remains a challenge.

What This Means for Canadian Immigration

The rising reliance on temporary foreign workers in Canada’s travel sector signals a broader trend. Immigration isn’t just about long-term resettlement anymore; it’s also a practical response to real-time labour needs.

Canada’s immigration pathways, including work permits, student visas, and pilot programs like the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), have made it possible for employers to hire needed talent fast. This trend could continue as industries like travel, food service, and hospitality adjust to long-term workforce shortages.

Supporting a Sustainable Labour Force

For Canada’s travel industry to thrive, policies must support both employers and non-permanent workers. That means:

• Ensuring fair wages and conditions for temporary workers
• Creating clear paths to permanent residency for those who want to stay
• Aligning work permit timelines with seasonal hiring needs

This approach benefits everyone, tourism businesses get the workforce they need, and newcomers gain valuable experience in Canada’s economy.

Non-Permanent Residents Are Transforming the Canadian Travel Industry

Canada’s travel and accommodation sector is bouncing back, but it’s not the same as before. Non-permanent residents are now a vital part of this industry’s workforce, filling essential roles that support recovery and growth.

As labour shortages persist and travel demand rises, the Canadian immigration system will continue playing a key role in workforce development. Non-permanent residents are not just filling jobs, they are helping shape the future of Canada’s post-pandemic economy. If you’re considering work or immigration opportunities in Canada’s travel industry or need guidance on temporary visas, permits, or long-term pathways, ImmigCanadais here to help. Reach out to our licensed experts to take your first step today.

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