Is Canada really going to end its Temporary Foreign Worker Program?

In Canada, the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) has become the focus of debate because of rising youth unemployment rates, cost of living and temporary immigration levels. Some opposition politicians are calling for this program to be eliminated and polls show public opinion divided. 

Temporary foreign workers are worried and uncertain about what would happen to their status. But how realistic is it to think about the end of the TFWP? Let's look at this analysis to understand the background. Let's start.

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What is behind the proposal to eliminate the TFWP?

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Youth unemployment is the main driver of this request, at over 14% in summer 2025. These are the highest levels since 2010 (outside of pandemic years). As a result, politicians from different streams (Conservatives, NDP and some provincial leaders) have called for ending or drastically reforming the program. 

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Are foreign workers to blame?

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Not necessarily. Economic weakness, automation, the gig economy (based on temporary, on-demand, or task-based jobs), and high turnover in entry-level jobs also play a role. Also, most temporary furloughs come from the International Mobility Program (IMP), not the TFWP.

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Poilievre's plan, Carney's dilemma

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An Abacus Data survey shows that 44% of Canadians are in favor of eliminating the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). Support varies by age, region and political affiliation.

Conservative voters are the most favorable to the proposal, with 61% support, aligning with the plan of Pierre Poilievre, leader of the Conservative Party. In contrast, Liberal voters are divided, presenting a dilemma for Mark Carney's government, which will have to balance economic demands with social concerns about migration.

Although the program has not been cancelled, the debate about what will happen continues to grow and could influence important policy decisions.

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Recent government actions: tightening of the TFWP

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Although the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) has not been eliminated, the Canadian government has already implemented significant restrictions that limit its scope and operability:

• The positive LMIA is now valid for 6 months (previously 12 months).
• Work permits for low-wage occupations are limited to 1 year.
• In metropolitan areas with unemployment equal to or greater than 6%, foreign workers are no longer allowed to be hired for low-wage jobs.

These measures seek to reduce dependence on the program and prioritize local hiring in areas with economic difficulties.

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Common questions from temporary foreign workers

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Is the Temporary Foreign Worker Program going to be eliminated? What would happen if that happens? What changes are most likely? What steps can be taken now?

Eliminating the TFWP completely does not seem the most likely thing to happen, but if it were to happen, the consequences would be significant. 

There would be labor shortages in key sectors such as agriculture, construction, manufacturing and services, which could translate into price increases for consumers and difficulties in maintaining operations in many companies. 

For this reason, the most realistic approach is to think about a profound reform, especially in the low-wage stream, which has been the most questioned due to its impact on the local labor market. There is also the possibility that the program could be relaunched under another name, with new rules, more controls and stricter criteria for employers.

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Recommendations for people affected by possible changes to the TFWP

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In view of the uncertainty about the future of the TFWP, follow these precautionary recommendations:

• Be informed with official sources, such as IRCC and migration experts, to be aware of changes and act in time.
• Explore migration alternatives, such as Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), French-speaking mobility or permanent residency, which offer greater stability and do not depend on a positive LMIA.
• Seek professional advice to guide you on the best routes and mistakes to avoid in immigration status.

At Immiland Canadawe offer personalized advice and strategic accompaniment for those facing changes in the TFWP. If you feel you require it, you can request a free assessment of your profile or schedule a consultation with a CICC regulated consultant.

Canada will not completely eliminate the TFWP in the short term, but we will see strong changes in the low wage stream. The most likely outcome is deep reform with a political rebranding . The call is to stay current.

See you in the next blog!

With love,

Immiland Canada