Maple News reports that Canada has officially launched Phase 2 of its Recognized Employer Pilot (REP) program, significantly expanding access for businesses seeking to hire foreign talent through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). The new phase opens the door to a broader range of employers across various industries, enhancing Canada’s ability to fill in-demand jobs with qualified foreign workers.
Originally introduced in September 2023, Phase 1 of the REP was limited to the primary agriculture sector and included just four agricultural occupations. Phase 2 is a dramatic expansion, now covering more than 80 high-demand occupations across wide-ranging sectors, including construction, health care, manufacturing, and hospitality.
The REP is designed to streamline hiring for Canadian employers with a strong track record of compliance under the TFWP. Employers who qualify will benefit from several key advantages, including Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs) valid for up to 36 months, compared to the standard 18-month validity. Additionally, future LMIA applications under this program will be simplified.
To be eligible for REP, companies must have obtained at least three positive LMIAs in the past five years and must be hiring Temporary Foreign Workers (TFWs) for occupations considered to be in shortage, based on data from the Canadian Occupation Projection System (COPS).
Other benefits for participating employers include a streamlined application process for LMIAs tied to COPS-designated roles, reduced administrative interaction with Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), and a “recognized employer” badge in Job Bank listings, making these companies more attractive to job seekers overseas.
Although the REP offers meaningful advantages, ESDC emphasizes that employers must undergo a rigorous initial assessment to ensure the integrity of the program. Only those with a proven track record of ethical hiring and compliance will be approved. REP applications can be submitted alongside regular LMIA filings; no separate application or extra documentation is required.
The expanded list of occupations now eligible under Phase 2 positions the REP as a strategic tool to bolster Canada’s labor market resilience, especially amid ongoing shortages in key industries. The pilot represents a forward-looking approach that not only supports economic growth but also ensures better experiences for both employers and the foreign workers they hire.