Canada Announces New Recognized Employer Pilot Program (REP)
In a recent move to address the ongoing labour shortage in the country, Canada has announced a new pilot program under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). The Recognized Employer Pilot (REP) will streamline the process for eligible employers to hire temporary foreign workers while maintaining the highest standards for worker protection.
The Recognized Employer Pilot will be implemented in two phases. In the first phase, which begins in September 2023, employers in the primary agriculture sector will be able to apply for the program. In the second phase, which begins in January 2024, all other industries will be eligible to participate.
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To be eligible for the Recognized Employer Pilot (REP) employers must have received at least three positives Labour Market Impact Assessment LMIAs for the same occupation within the past five years from a list of occupations designated as in-shortage and supported by the Canadian Occupational Projection System (COPS) data.
Recognized employers will have a number of benefits, including:
(1). Simplified LMIA applications for future hiring of additional employees
(2). Longer LMIA validity periods (up to 36 months)
(3). A Job Bank designation that indicates their recognized status
Employers who are interested in participating in the REP can submit an application through the LMIA Online Portal or by email. Applications will be evaluated based on the employer's compliance history with the TFWP and the frequency with which they use the program to fill in-demand positions.
The REP is a welcome development for employers who are facing labour shortages. It will make it easier and faster for them to hire the temporary foreign workers they need to fill essential jobs. The program will also help to ensure that temporary foreign workers are treated fairly and have access to the same rights and protections as Canadian workers.
INFORMATION:
For more information on the REP, please visit the Employment and Social Development Canada website. click here
Here are some additional details about the Recognized Employer Pilot program:
(1). The REP is a three-year pilot program.
(2). The application period for the first phase (primary agriculture) begins in September 2023.
(3). The application period for the second phase (all other industries) begins in January 2024.
(4). Employers who are expected to meet REP eligibility requirements will be proactively invited to apply.
(5). Employers can submit an application through the LMIA Online Portal or by email.
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The evaluation of a REP application will be based on the employer's compliance history with the TFWP and the frequency with which they use the program to fill in-demand positions.
Employers who qualify for the REP can expect a simplified application process for future LMIA applications, longer LMIA validity periods, and a Job Bank designation that indicates their recognized status.
The REP is a positive step forward for Canada's labour market. It will help to address the ongoing labour shortage and ensure that temporary foreign workers are treated fairly.
NOTE:
This is a developing story, and INC News is updating it as it happens.
FAQ’s
What is the Recognized Employer Pilot Program (REP)?
The Recognized Employer Pilot Program (REP) is a new program that aims to streamline the process for eligible employers to hire temporary foreign workers. The REP is a three-year pilot program that began in September 2023.
Who is eligible for the REP program?
Employers who are eligible for the REP program must:
(1). Have received at least three positive Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs) for the same occupation within the past five years.
(2). Be in an occupation that is designated as in demand by the Canadian government.
(3). Have a good compliance history with the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP).
What are the benefits of the REP program?
Employers who participate in the REP program can enjoy the following benefits:
(1). Simplified LMIA application process
(2). Longer LMIA validity periods (up to 36 months)
(3). Job Bank designation that indicates their recognized status
How do I apply for the REP program?
Employers who are interested in applying for the REP program can do so through the LMIA Online Portal. The application process is similar to the regular LMIA application process, but there are some additional requirements for REP applicants.
What is the timeline for the REP program?
The REP program is a three-year pilot program that began in September 2023. The program is currently scheduled to end in September 2026. However, the government may decide to extend the program if it is successful.
What are the challenges of the REP program?
There are a few challenges that employers may face when participating in the REP program. These challenges include:
(1). The need to meet the eligibility requirements
(2). The complexity of the application process
(3). The potential for delays in processing applications
What is the future of the REP program?
The future of the REP program is uncertain. The program is currently a pilot program, and the government has not yet decided whether to make it a permanent program.
However, the program has been successful so far, and it is likely that the government will consider making it a permanent program in the future.
What are the different types of occupations that are eligible for the REP program?
The occupations that are eligible for the REP program are designated as in demand by the Canadian government. These occupations are typically occupations that are facing labour shortages in Canada.
What are the different steps involved in the REP application process?
The REP application process is similar to the regular LMIA application process, but there are some additional requirements for REP applicants. The steps involved in the REP application process are as follows:
(1). Complete the REP application form.
(2). Submit the application form to Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC).
(3). Provide supporting documentation, such as proof of compliance with the TFWP.
(4). Pay the application fee.
(5). Wait for ESDC to process the application.
(6). If the application is approved, you will be issued a letter of recognition.
(7). You can then begin hiring temporary foreign workers.
What are the requirements for maintaining REP status?
Employers who want to maintain REP status must continue to meet the eligibility requirements and comply with the TFWP. They must also submit an annual report to ESDC.
What are the consequences for employers who violate the REP program?
Employers who violate the REP program may face the following consequences:
(1). The loss of their REP status
(2). The cancellation of their LMIAs
(3). The imposition of fines
(4). The prosecution of criminal charges
What are the resources available to employers who participate in the REP program?
There are a number of resources available to employers who participate in the REP program. These resources include:
(1). The REP website: The REP website provides information about the program, including eligibility requirements, the application process, and resources for employers.
(2). The REP contact centre: The REP contact centre can provide assistance to employers with questions about the program.
(3). The REP toolkit: The REP toolkit provides information and resources to help employers comply with the program.
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