Canada to accelerate work permit processing for Filipinos with new pilot program

Photo by Jason Hafso on Unsplash

Aimed at enhancing Canada’s capacity to recruit and retain temporary foreign workers, the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) launched a program to expedite the process of work permits for candidates from the Philippines.

Named CAN Work Philippines, the pilot project is positioned to facilitate a smoother and more efficient process for employers seeking to hire Filipino workers, a critical workforce source for the country’s economy.

The program will not just streamline processing but also allow them to schedule group appointments for medical examinations and biometrics for potential employees.

Specifically, CAN Work Philippines caters to and welcomes employers hiring around 50 or more employees or seeking to fill critical roles in sectors like healthcare, construction, and agri-food.

“Every year, thousands of temporary foreign workers from around the world bring their skills to Canada, helping to grow our economy and fill labor market shortages,” says Immigration Minister Marc Miller in a news release.

“The CAN Work Philippines pilot will give Canada an important advantage in the global race for talent and support our industries in addressing labor market shortages.”

Additional funds for advancement

Furthermore, the IRCC is also allocating $200,000 to the International Organization for Migration (IOM) for the advancement of equitable and morally sound recruitment practices within the Philippines and to collaborate closely with them for the use of the IOM’s Fair and Ethical Recruitment Due Diligence Toolkit.

“At the same time, the funding to the IOM demonstrates our continued commitment to fair and ethical recruitment practices and will help ensure the health, safety, and quality of life of temporary foreign workers,” the minister continues.

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The program reflects Canada’s commitment to attracting and retaining global talent and strengthening its workforce, further positioning the country as a destination of choice for both employers and skilled workers alike.