Embassy of the Philippines
Ottawa

ADVISORY ON CANADA’S TEMPORARY FOREIGN WORKER PROGRAM (TFWP)

(Source: http://www.vancouverpcg.org/)

Following consultations with relevant Canadian authorities to whom concerns of Filipino temporary foreign workers
(TFWs) in Canada were conveyed, the Philippine Embassy calls the attention of affected Filipino nationals to the
following program changes and situations relative to the TFWP.
1. TFWs most affected by the program overhaul are those occupying or seeking a specific occupation identified
under the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) as Accommodations, Food Service and
Retail Sales (NAIC 72, 44, 45); those occupying or seeking positions covered by one of the National
Occupational Classification (NOC) codes below; and working or seeking a job in an economic region where
the annual unemployment rate is over 6%.
NOC Code Title
6641 Food Counter Attendants, kitchen Helpers and Related Occupations
6661 Light Duty Cleaners
6611 Cashiers
6622 Grocery Clerks and Store Shelf Stockers
7611 Construction Trades Helpers and Labourers
8612 Landscaping and Grounds Maintenance Labourers
6672 Other Attendants in Accommodation and Travel
6663 Janitors Caretakers and Building Superintendents
6662 Specialized Cleaners
6651 Security Guards and Related Occupations
Where all three of the aforecited conditions are present, Employment and Social Development Canada
(ESDC) will not issue a Labor Market impact Assessment (LMIA)
2. Unless TFWs with expired or expiring work permits can secure a renewal, obtain a different work permit or
qualify for other legal immigration status in Canada, the terms of their latest work permit apply. There are
no legal mechanisms in place for the automatic extension of expired work permits. Therefore, while
exploring legal options available to them, affected Filipino workers are reminded of the conditions of their
temporary stay in Canada as they navigate their way to future prospects.
3. All Canada-bound Filipino workers are advised to coordinate closely with and seek prior clearance from their
employers to avoid any unnecessary inconvenience. Distressed Filipino workers at Canadian port of entries
may phone their employers and/or the nearest Philippine Consulate General/Philippine Overseas Labor
Office for assistance.
4. Filipinos being recruited for jobs in Canada, especially in the NOC and NAICS positions listed above are urged
to ensure that any job offer is accompanied by a favorable LMIA as warranted and that they are in
possession of a valid work visa before proceeding to Canada.