Canada’s Recognised Employer Pilot Program: Expanding Opportunities for Nigerians and Other Migrants

Canada is taking bold steps to enhance its workforce by launching the second phase of the Recognised Employer Pilot (REP) program. This expansion aims to bring in foreign talents across various industries, a significant departure from the initial phase that focused primarily on the agricultural sector.

The Evolution of REP

The Recognised Employer Pilot program, initially limited to four occupations in agriculture, has now broadened its scope. In its second phase, it encompasses over 80 in-demand occupations, ranging from engineering managers to chefs, carpenters, and more. This evolution is a strategic move to address the diverse needs of Canada’s labor market.

Who Can Participate?

For employers to engage in the REP, they must meet specific criteria. Firstly, they should have secured at least three positive Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs) within the past five years. Additionally, these employers must be hiring Temporary Foreign Workers (TFWs) from occupations identified as facing shortages, as per the Canadian Occupations Projection System (COPS) data.

Benefits for Eligible Employers

Participating employers stand to gain several advantages under the REP. Notably, they will benefit from extended validity periods for LMIA, with permits lasting up to 36 months instead of the standard 18 months. This extension streamlines the application process for subsequent LMIA requests related to occupations on the COPS list.

The REP also ensures limited points of interaction between participating firms and the Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). This is achieved through simplified LMIA forms, allowing employers to efficiently engage more Temporary Foreign Workers for legitimate job offers.

Application Process

To be part of the REP, employers can include their application when submitting an LMIA. The process is designed to be seamless, requiring no additional information beyond the standard LMIA submission. ESDC emphasizes a thorough initial assessment to select reputable employers for program participation.

While those who do not qualify for the REP will still receive a decision on their LMIA, successful applicants can expect a more straightforward process, fostering a positive and mutually beneficial relationship between employers and the Canadian workforce.

For detailed information on the Recognised Employer Pilot program, please visit Canada’s official website.

In another welcoming initiative, the Canadian government invites applications for its Home Child Care Provider Pilot and Home Support Worker Pilot programs. These caregiver programs offer an opportunity for foreigners, including Nigerians, to relocate with their families and obtain permanent residency.

Explore new horizons in Canada – a nation that values and embraces diversity. Start your journey from January 1, 2024.