The Ontario government has rolled out an $11 billion economic support package aimed at keeping businesses afloat and workers employed amid growing global uncertainty. While this is great news for local businesses, it’s also an important signal to foreign workers and employers relying on low-wage LMIA processing.
With U.S. tariffs creating ripples in the economy and unemployment fluctuating across major cities, Ontario is stepping in to stabilize the job market. But what does this mean for immigration pathways, especially for those under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)?
Let’s break it down.
Ontario’s $11 Billion Response: Who Benefits?
The relief package includes:
- A six-month deferral on select provincial taxes, allowing employers to keep $9 billion in cash flow.
- A $2 billion rebate through the WSIB for employers maintaining safe workplaces.
- $400 million invested in worker health and safety programs.
- A plan to remove internal trade barriers and fast-track development permits.
- Encouragement for businesses to diversify trading partners beyond the U.S.
This economic boost is designed to protect jobs and business operations, which directly ties into how companies recruit and retain talent—including foreign workers.
What This Means for Low-Wage LMIA Applicants
The timing of Ontario’s aid coincides with the federal decision to pause low-wage LMIA processing in 24 CMAs due to unemployment rates above 6%. This includes many Ontario cities like Toronto, Windsor, and Hamilton.
Here’s how these changes intersect:
| Ontario Measure | Impact on LMIA Applicants |
| $9B tax deferral | May encourage employers to retain or rehire workers. |
| $2B WSIB rebate | Rewards businesses that prioritize safe work environments, possibly creating more job stability. |
| Trade diversification | Could lead to growth in sectors hiring through the TFWP. |
| Development acceleration | New projects may open up additional job opportunities in currently restricted CMAs. |
Employers might be able to reallocate financial resources toward offering higher wages—potentially qualifying positions under the high-wage LMIA stream instead.
Strategic Steps for Employers and Foreign Workers
If you’re an employer facing the current LMIA freeze or a worker with a pending application, here’s what you can do:
For Employers
- Evaluate Wage Levels: Can the position be moved to the high-wage stream?
- Delay Applications: Consider applying after the next CMA unemployment review on July 11, 2025.
- Explore New Locations: Shift operations or job offers to CMAs with lower unemployment rates.
For Foreign Workers
- Ask About Wage Adjustments: Some employers may be willing to increase wages temporarily.
- Watch for Economic Shifts: Ontario’s growth measures could reduce unemployment rates by the next quarter.
- Seek High-Demand Sectors: Focus on industries and locations less affected by the freeze.
Low-Wage LMIA Processing Amid Policy and Economic Change
Ontario’s current economic plan offers a ray of hope during uncertain times. While low-wage LMIA processing remains paused in several cities, the province’s proactive steps may help balance the job market. With more financial flexibility and an emphasis on job creation, employers may soon have the capacity to support both domestic and foreign workers more sustainably.
As always, staying informed and adapting your strategy is key. For expert help in evaluating your options or preparing a compliant application, reach out to ImmigCanada—your trusted guide in Canadian immigration. Need help determining your eligibility or switching to a high-wage stream? Contact ImmigCanada today for customized immigration solutions.
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