In a recent announcement, Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre outlined plans to permanently abolish the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) if elected. The proposal is positioned as a response to growing concerns over high youth unemployment, wage pressures, and the record number of foreign worker permits issued in Canada this year.
According to recent data, 105,000 new TFWP permits were issued in just the first half of 2025, a historic peak. At the same time, Employment Insurance claims have increased by 7.4%, and nearly 400,000 Canadians are facing long-term unemployment. The Conservatives argue that phasing out the TFWP will help redirect job opportunities to Canadian citizens and permanent residents.
What the Conservatives Are Proposing
The plan involves several key measures:
- Permanent end to the TFWP, except for a limited agricultural labour stream.
- Transition period for regions with low unemployment to adjust.
- Focus on Canadian workers first, particularly youth and those in vulnerable labour markets.
This proposal comes at a time when labour shortages in industries such as construction, hospitality, and healthcare continue to drive reliance on foreign workers. Employers argue that the TFWP fills critical gaps, while critics contend it can lead to wage suppression and reduced opportunities for Canadians.
How This Affects Immigration and Employers
If implemented, the Conservatives’ plan could significantly reshape Canada’s labour market and immigration policies. Employers who rely on temporary foreign workers may face hiring challenges, particularly in sectors where domestic labour is scarce.
For foreign nationals, the pathway to working in Canada through the TFWP may close, except in agriculture. This could mean fewer opportunities for international job seekers who have traditionally used the program as a stepping stone toward permanent residence.
However, alternatives may remain open, such as:
- The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) targets skilled workers based on local needs.
- The Express Entry system which prioritizes skilled professionals for permanent residence.
- Employer-driven immigration initiatives at the provincial level, like Manitoba’s Employer Direct Initiative.
Why Guidance from an RCIC Matters
Changes in government policy can create uncertainty for both employers and workers. By working with a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) from ImmigCanada, you can stay ahead of policy shifts and secure alternative pathways if the TFWP is phased out.
We assist employers in exploring programs beyond the TFWP, and we help foreign workers identify opportunities through permanent immigration streams such as PNP and Express Entry. Our goal is to provide clarity in times of change and ensure you don’t miss out on viable pathways to Canada.
Conservatives Proposing to End the Temporary Foreign Worker Program
The Conservative proposal to end the Temporary Foreign Worker Program in Canada signals a potential turning point in the country’s immigration and labour strategy. While the plan aims to prioritize Canadians in the workforce, it could create challenges for employers and foreign nationals alike.
Whether you’re an employer seeking solutions to workforce shortages or an international applicant exploring permanent pathways, ImmigCanada’s licensed RCICs can guide you through the evolving landscape of Canadian immigration. Contact us today to prepare for what’s ahead.
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