Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) - Low-wage Stream
Embassy required
- Processing time
- Varies by country, typically 4-16 weeks
- Fee
- CAD $155 (work permit) + $85 (biometrics). Employer pays $1,000 LMIA fee.
- Validity
- Up to 2 years
- Entry
- Single entry
Employer-specific work permit for low-wage positions (below provincial/territorial median wage). Employer must obtain positive LMIA. Subject to cap on proportion of low-wage TFWs employer can hire (20% cap). Employer must provide or ensure affordable housing available. Tied to specific employer and job location.
Eligibility
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Employment
Must have valid job offer from Canadian employer with positive LMIA. Position must be at a wage below the provincial/territorial median hourly wage.
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Criminal record
Must be admissible to Canada.
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Health
Medical exam may be required depending on occupation and country of origin.
Documents you need
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Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 0
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Biometrics appointment
Booking url: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/campaigns/biometrics/where-to-give-biometrics.html; Location: Visa Application Centre
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Work contract
Provide a signed job offer, contract or assignment letter showing the role, dates and employer.
Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: No
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Labor market assessment
Assessment number: LMIA confirmation number; Issuing authority: Employment and Social Development Canada
How to apply
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Document gathering
Obtain LMIA number from employer, job offer letter, employment contract, and identity documents.
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Online application
Apply online through IRCC portal with LMIA details and supporting documents.
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Fee payment
Pay CAD $155 work permit fee plus CAD $85 biometrics fee.
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Biometrics
Provide biometrics at designated collection point.
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Processing wait
Processing varies by country.