By Canadian Press

Facing labour shortages, Liberals loosen rules on foreign workers ahead of budget

Apr 4, 2022 | 11:41 AM

OTTAWA — The federal government is easing rules on temporary foreign workers in some areas of the economy desperately in need of employees.

The changes will allow employers to hire foreign workers for more low-wage jobs, and in areas where the unemployment rate remains high.

Higher-wage, highly skilled workers will also be able to secure three years of employment eligibility instead of two, which the government says would also give them an easier path to permanent residency.  

Employment Minister Carla Qualtrough says the changes provide short-term relief for companies struggling to fill vacancies, including some with dwindling pools of available workers.

She also says the changes are part of an ongoing effort to improve the foreign-worker program without putting downward pressure on wages.

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This report by The Canadian Press was first published April 4, 2022.

The Canadian Press