Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) is an essential component of the nation’s economic growth and success. With a focus on attracting skilled workers, international students, and essential personnel, the TFWP has been instrumental in addressing labor shortages and fueling economic recovery. This article offers a detailed overview of the program, recent updates, and how to prepare for new pathways to permanent residency.
TR to PR Pathway Update: On April 14, 2021, the Canadian government introduced new pathways to permanent residency for 90,000 essential workers, international graduates, and French speakers through the Canada TR to PR Pathway initiative. The program targeted three primary streams:
- 20,000 applications for temporary healthcare workers
- 30,000 applications for temporary workers in other selected essential occupations
- 40,000 applications for international students who graduated from a Canadian designated learning institution
The TR to PR pathway for essential workers and international student graduates will remain open until December 31, 2022.
Eligibility for Family Members:
Applicants under the TR to PR pathway can also include their immediate family members on a bridging open work permit. Immediate family members encompass spouses, common-law partners, and dependent children. To include family members, applicants must submit relevant documents such as marriage certificates, birth certificates, or evidence of a common-law relationship during the application process. Additionally, form IMM 0008 must be completed for each family member.
New TR to PR Pathway Announcement:
The Canadian government is expected to announce a new pathway to permanent residency for international students and temporary workers soon. This move aligns with Canada’s aggressive immigration plan for 2022 and 2024, targeting 1.3 million new permanent residents. The new pathway will likely follow similar processes to the 2021 TR to PR pathway programs.
Why Canada Needs a New TR to PR Pathway:
The Canadian government emphasizes that immigration is crucial for recovering from the economic consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic. Immigration has shaped the nation and contributed to various sectors, including farming, fishing, manufacturing, healthcare, and transportation. The new 2022-2024 Levels Plan aims to grow Canada’s economy and fill labor market shortages.
Canada’s Immigration Levels Targets for 2022-2024:
- 2022: 431,645 permanent residents
- 2023: 447,055 permanent residents
- 2024: 451,000 permanent residents
Preparing for the New Canada TR to PR Pathway: The new Canada TR to PR pathway will likely have similar eligibility requirements as the 2021 programs. Prospective applicants should:
- Check and recheck their documentation for accuracy and completeness.
- Prepare for short TR to PR pathway application processing timelines.
- Consider working with certified Canadian immigration professionals (lawyers or consultants) to navigate the complicated and ever-changing immigration system.
- Be aware of potential immigration scams and fraud by using certified professionals.
- Stay up-to-date with the latest news and announcements regarding the new TR to PR pathway.
In conclusion, Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker Program and the associated pathways to permanent residency are essential for the nation’s economic growth and success. By understanding the recent updates and preparing for new pathways, individuals can increase their chances of achieving permanent residency and contributing to Canada’s thriving economy.