Recent Changes to the TFWP: What BC Businesses and Workers Need to Know

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Hiring Process Overview

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Employers must first register under the Temporary Foreign Worker Protection Act to hire foreign workers in British Columbia. Learn more about the registration process. This registration is essential for participating in programs like the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) and must be renewed every three years to maintain compliance.

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The next step is obtaining a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), which verifies the need for a foreign worker when no qualified Canadian candidate is available. Visit Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) page for detailed information on LMIA requirements. This includes advertising the job locally as part of the requirement.
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"Did You Know? The Global Talent Stream (GTS) expedites the LMIA process, reducing the waiting period to around two weeks—perfect for businesses needing urgent access to specialized talent."

Once an LMIA is approved, employers can extend a formal job offer. This enables the foreign worker to apply for an employer-specific work permit, paving the way for them to join the company.

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Importance of the LMIA and Its Alternative

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The LMIA ensures that hiring foreign talent does not negatively impact Canadian job seekers. The process, managed by ESDC, involves proving local recruitment efforts.
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"The GTS is a specialized LMIA pathway that allows faster processing, which is ideal for businesses needing to secure highly skilled professionals quickly. However, some roles may be LMIA-exempt under the International Mobility Program (IMP), which benefits positions that contribute cultural or economic value. Learn more about the IMP."

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Success Story: Supporting PBF Pita Bread Factory Ltd.

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Evoke HR has supported PBF Pita Bread Factory Ltd. in recruiting nearly a dozen Maintenance Millwrights through multiple LMIA applications and work permit processes. This support provided PBF with the operational stability needed to maintain production and meet business demands. With a stable workforce in place, PBF was able to shift focus toward training and development initiatives, aiming to reduce future reliance on the TFWP. Evoke HR’s assistance also facilitated the workers’ transition to permanent residency and helped some bring their families to Canada, reinforcing PBF’s long-term growth and sustainability.

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Temporary and Permanent Hiring Pathways

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Employers can choose between temporary and permanent hiring options. The TFWP typically requires an LMIA, while the IMP may exempt certain roles from this requirement when they fulfill specific criteria, such as providing cultural or economic benefits.

For businesses looking to retain talent long-term, the BC Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) is a valuable option that helps foreign workers transition to permanent residency, enhancing workforce stability.  Find more information about the BC PNP.

In addition to the BC PNP, many temporary foreign workers find the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) an advantageous pathway for gaining permanent residency. Under the Express Entry system, this federal program allows foreign workers who have gained skilled work experience in Canada to apply for permanent residency. It recognizes the value of Canadian work experience and often prioritizes candidates who have successfully integrated into the Canadian workforce.

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"Supporting foreign workers’ transition to permanent residency can enhance loyalty and workforce stability, offering businesses a reliable talent pipeline for critical roles."

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For specialized industries in BC, such as tech, the BC PNP Tech Pilot offers expedited processing for eligible tech occupations, allowing employers to address skill shortages swiftly.

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"Did You Know? The BC PNP Tech Pilot offers weekly draws for eligible tech roles, enabling faster processing and quicker job fulfillment."

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Additionally, sectors such as agriculture can leverage the Agri-Food Immigration Pilot to help workers in food production and related fields transition to permanent residency, securing stable staffing solutions for long-term growth.

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Ensuring Compliance and Avoiding Penalties

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Compliance with BC’s Temporary Foreign Worker Protection Act ensures fair treatment and clear employment terms and prohibits practices such as withholding documents or charging recruitment fees. Check current BC employment standards. Non-compliance can lead to fines, suspension of hiring rights, or legal repercussions.

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"Did You Know? Employers must frequently review updates to BC and federal regulations to remain compliant and avoid penalties."

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Employers must stay proactive to maintain lawful hiring practices and safeguard their rights to recruit international talent.

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Supporting Integration and Onboarding

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Helping foreign workers settle in BC requires a strategic approach to relocation and onboarding. Employers should offer guidance on housing and use resources like WelcomeBC to facilitate smooth transitions. Effective onboarding programs that include mentorship and language assistance can enhance job satisfaction and productivity.

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"Key Point: Comprehensive onboarding practices can make a significant difference, ensuring new hires feel welcomed and valued."

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Business Advantages of Hiring International Talent

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Hiring foreign workers expands a company’s talent pool, giving access to specialized skills not always available locally. Additionally, employees with international backgrounds can offer diverse perspectives that drive innovation and connect businesses with global markets.

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"Did You Know? Multilingual employees can help businesses expand their reach and appeal to broader customer bases, creating new growth opportunities."

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Final Checklist for Employers

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Employers can use this checklist to navigate the process:

        ✓ Register under BC’s Temporary Foreign Worker Protection Act.
        ✓ Apply for an LMIA (if required) and meet local job advertising standards.
        ✓ Extend a job offer after LMIA approval.
        ✓ Ensure compliance with BC employment laws to avoid penalties.
        ✓ Support new hires with relocation resources and structured onboarding.

Staying proactive and thorough at every step helps businesses maximize the benefits of hiring international talent while maintaining compliance.

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Key Links

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For more detailed information and resources, check out these key links:

• BC Temporary Foreign Worker Protection Act: Registration and guidelines.
• Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC): LMIA requirements and application process.
• International Mobility Program (IMP): Details about IMP and LMIA exemptions.
• BC Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP): Information on BC PNP pathways.
• Canadian Experience Class (CEC): Eligibility and application process under Express Entry.
• WelcomeBC: Resources for settling and integrating in BC.
• Agri-Food Immigration Pilot: Overview of the pilot program.

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Simplify Hiring, Strengthen Your Team, and Achieve Lasting Growth

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Looking to enhance your recruitment strategy and streamline the complex process of hiring foreign workers? Don’t let recruitment challenges slow your business growth. Evoke HR is here to support you every step of the way. From securing LMIAs and recruiting skilled international talent to providing seamless onboarding, ensuring compliance, and maintaining workforce stability, we handle it all. Partner with us to build a diverse, effective team and drive sustainable growth.

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Contact Evoke HR today to simplify your recruitment and compliance processes—and focus on expanding your business with confidence.

If you’re finding it hard to hire locally, the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a great tool for bringing in foreign talent. It’s the Canadian government’s way of making sure that hiring internationally is only necessary when there aren’t qualified locals. But how does the LMIA process work, and how can it benefit your business in the long term?

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How to Get an LMIA: A Simple Breakdown
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Step 1: Post the Job Locally

The first thing you need to do is post your job on platforms like the Government Job Bank for a minimum of four weeks. You also need to advertise in other channels like industry-specific job boards or local newspapers. This step shows that you’ve made a genuine effort to hire locally.

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"Struggling to find local talent? The LMIA can open doors to hiring top foreign workers."

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Step 2: Keep Track of Your Recruitment Efforts

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You’ll need to document everything—from where you posted the job to the interviews you conducted. It’s important to show that you did your best to hire Canadian citizens or permanent residents and explain why those candidates weren’t a fit.

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Step 3: Submit the LMIA Application

Once your recruitment period is over, it’s time to submit your LMIA application to Service Canada. You’ll include all your documentation, and yes, it can feel like a lot! But here’s the good news: after approval, you’ll be able to hire a foreign worker. This part of the process can take around 8 to 16 weeks, so plan accordingly.

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The Benefits of an LMIA for Your Business

Here’s where it gets interesting. Hiring through the LMIA process doesn’t just fill your open roles—it offers some unique benefits that can have a lasting impact on your company.

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"Boost retention with closed work permits—foreign workers hired under an LMIA are more likely to stay long-term."

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"Knowledge transfer is a powerful benefit of hiring globally—bring fresh skills and perspectives to your team."

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1. Employee Retention Through Closed Work Permits
   When you hire a foreign worker with an LMIA, they receive a closed work permit, meaning they can only work for your company. This provides stability because your new hire is committed to working with you for the duration of their permit, typically one to two years. It’s a great way to reduce turnover and increase retention, especially for roles that are hard to fill.
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2. Knowledge Transfer
   When you bring in global talent, you’re not just filling a job—you’re enriching your team. Foreign workers often bring unique skills and perspectives that can lead to knowledge transfer within your company. Whether it’s new ideas, methods, or technical expertise, your local team can benefit from the fresh perspective your new hire brings.
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3. Bridging Skills Gaps
   Some industries in Canada face chronic skills shortages, like tech or construction. By using the LMIA to hire internationally, you can bridge these gaps and keep your business running smoothly. It’s a strategic way to bring in specialized talent that might not be available locally.
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4. Long-term Planning
   Many foreign workers aim to become permanent residents, which means that while you’re filling an immediate need, you’re also potentially gaining a long-term employee. This offers stability for your team and helps you avoid constantly filling the same positions over and over.

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Timelines to Expect

The LMIA process can take a bit of time, so it’s important to plan ahead. Here’s a rough timeline:

• Job Posting: 4 weeks minimum.
• Recruitment Documentation: 1 to 2 weeks to organize all your records.
• Service Canada Processing: 8 to 16 weeks, depending on the role and region.
• Work Permit Processing: After LMIA approval, it can take another 1 to 2 months, depending on the worker’s country of origin.

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"Plan ahead: the LMIA process takes around 3 to 4 months from start to finish."

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All in all, you’re looking at a total timeline of about 3 to 4 months from start to finish. While it takes time, the long-term benefits—like retention and access to specialized talent—can make it well worth the effort.

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"The LMIA isn’t just about filling vacancies, it’s a strategic solution for long-term growth."

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Need Help Navigating the LMIA Process?

If you’re ready to hire globally but need help navigating the LMIA process, contact us today. We can streamline the process and ensure you’re set up for success.

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Investing in HR: Transforming Your Business

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Human Resources (HR) isn't just a department; it's the heartbeat of any thriving organization. Yet, many businesses underestimate the profound impact a robust HR function can have. Investing in HR can truly transform your business.

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Key Areas of HR Impact

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HR goes beyond hiring and firing. It's about fostering a positive workplace culture, ensuring compliance with laws and regulations, developing employees, and much more. Here’s how HR makes a difference:

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• Talent Acquisition and Retention: Effective HR practices attract top talent and keep them engaged, reducing turnover and saving hiring costs.
• Employee Development: Continuous training and development programs enhance skills and keep employees motivated and loyal.
• Conflict Resolution: HR professionals are skilled in resolving workplace conflicts, fostering a harmonious and productive environment.
• Compliance and Risk Management: Ensuring compliance with employment laws protects the company from legal issues and financial penalties.
• HR Strategy: Developing long-term strategies that align HR initiatives with business goals to drive success and growth.
• Workplace Accommodations: Creating inclusive environments by providing reasonable accommodations for employees with diverse needs.

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Why Fractional HR Services?

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Not every business can afford a full-time HR department, but that doesn’t mean they should miss out on expert HR support. Fractional HR services offer a flexible, cost-effective solution, providing access to top-tier HR expertise without the overhead of a full-time hire. This approach allows businesses to scale their HR needs according to their growth and specific challenges.

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Our Passion for the Public Sector

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At Evoke HR, we work with a wide variety of clients but have a special passion for the public sector, including local government, emergency services, education, and Indigenous organizations. We are dedicated to supporting both Indigenous and non-Indigenous organizations in these critical areas, ensuring they have the HR support they need to thrive.

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Real-World Impact: Case Studies from Evoke HR

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Case Study 1: Fractional HR for a Professional Services Firm

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One of our longstanding clients, a professional services firm, sought expert HR support but preferred an external partner due to their small size. Despite having internal HR in the past, they needed more expertise to handle complex situations and stay up to date with legislation. Over the years, Evoke HR has provided invaluable support, enhancing performance, addressing workplace accommodations, resolving interpersonal conflicts, and drafting and implementing workplace policies. This partnership has allowed the firm to focus on its core business while ensuring its HR needs are expertly managed.

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Case Study 2: Compensation Review and Job Evaluation Project

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Another example is a comprehensive project we undertook for a client needing an external compensation review and job evaluation implementation. The client had no job evaluation system, and their compensation structure lacked alignment with the market. Here’s what we achieved:

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• Data Collection: We gathered detailed information on over 200 unique positions to understand the roles and responsibilities accurately.
• Designing the Job Evaluation System: We recommended and created a job evaluation system tailored to the client’s needs, ensuring it was fair and equitable.
• Market Review: We conducted an extensive external compensation review to align the client’s pay structure with market standards.
• Job Evaluation Implementation: Each position was evaluated and placed within the new system, ensuring consistency and fairness across the organization.
• New Salary Framework: We developed a comprehensive new salary framework that addressed market competitiveness and internal equity.
• Guidelines and Documentation: Created and provided guidelines, documents, forms, and workflows for both employees and managers to facilitate the new system.
• Communication and Consultation: Throughout the project, we maintained regular communication and consultation to ensure organizational understanding, buy-in, and support change management.

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The outcome of this project was a competitive pay structure and a fair, equitable job evaluation system that brought consistency and equity across the organization. The client now benefits from a robust compensation framework that supports their strategic objectives and enhances their ability to attract and retain top talent.

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Don’t wait for challenges like tricky terminations or habitual absenteeism to seek HR help. Start a proactive relationship with Evoke HR today. By implementing sustainable people practices now, you can prevent issues before they arise, ensuring a smoother, more efficient operation. Contact us to get started and experience the transformative power of expert HR support.

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Exciting Projects at Evoke HR

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At Evoke HR, we’ve had the pleasure of working on a variety of impactful and engaging projects:

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• Compensation Reviews: Helping businesses ensure their pay structures are competitive and fair.
• Job Evaluation Implementation: Developing systems to evaluate and define the value of various roles within an organization.
• Workplace Investigations: Conducting thorough investigations to resolve conflicts and promote a safe working environment.
• Policy and Employee Handbook Development: Crafting detailed policies and comprehensive handbooks that align with company values and legal requirements.
• Job Description Drafting: Creating clear and effective job descriptions that attract the best candidates.
• Recruitment: Helping businesses find and hire top talent to drive their growth.
• How-To Guides: Developing practical guides to assist managers and employees in navigating various HR processes.
• Organizational Design: Structuring organizations to optimize efficiency and effectiveness.
• Workplace Accommodations: Implementing accommodations to support employees with disabilities, ensuring a more inclusive and supportive work environment.

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The Risks of Neglecting HR

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Ignoring HR can lead to high turnover rates, low employee morale, legal troubles, and, ultimately, a decline in business performance. Investing in HR is investing in the future of your business. By prioritizing HR, you ensure compliance, resolve conflicts, and foster a culture of growth and innovation.

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Transform Your Business with Evoke HR

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HR is not just an operational necessity; it's a strategic asset that can transform your business. At Evoke HR, we’re here to support you with a range of services designed to meet your unique needs and drive your success. Let’s work together to create a thriving, productive workplace.

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