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As Canada continues to experience significant labor shortages, many sectors are turning to temporary foreign workers to fill critical gaps in their workforce. The dependence on temporary foreign workers in Canada is particularly pronounced in the agriculture, hospitality, healthcare, and construction industries, which play important roles in the country's economy. With an increasing demand for workers across various sectors, understanding where these job opportunities are can benefit Canadian employers and foreign temporary job seekers.
Want to learn more about which sectors in Canada seek temporary foreign workers the most? Then, explore the sectors that need the most temporary foreign workers with us.
Temporary Foreign Workers in Canada
According to Statistics Canada, the number of TFWs in Canada has increased significantly, with over 450,000 individuals working there by 2022. In agriculture, for instance, TFWs represent a substantial portion of the workforce, particularly during peak seasons for planting and harvesting. The Canadian Agricultural Human Resource Council (CAHRC) reported that 50% of farm operators rely on TFWs to meet labor demands, highlighting their importance in sustaining food production.
The hospitality industry also heavily depends on TFWs, especially in tourist hotspots. As local labor markets tighten, many hotels and restaurants turn to foreign workers to fill critical positions, ensuring smooth operations during busy seasons. In healthcare, TFWs help alleviate staff shortages in nursing and support roles, which have become increasingly urgent as Canada's population ages.
Despite their contributions, TFWs face challenges, including language barriers, cultural adjustments, and understanding complex immigration processes. Advocacy groups emphasize the importance of improving support systems for these workers to enhance their experience and integration into Canadian society. Moreover, there are ongoing discussions about the need for policy reforms to streamline the hiring process and improve working conditions for TFWs.
Which Sectors Need the Most Temporary Foreign Workers in Canada?
Canada's dependence on temporary foreign workers has become increasingly pronounced in recent years. This is evident in the need for TFWs in each of the following major economic sectors in Canada below.
Agriculture
Agriculture is Canada's most reliant economic sector on TFWs. The industry faces a persistent labor shortage due to various factors, such as the seasonal nature of work, low wages, and challenging working conditions. Many Canadians are unwilling or unable to fill these positions, creating a gap that TFWs help to bridge.
The demand for TFWs is exceptionally high in specific agricultural subsectors, such as fruit and vegetable production, where manual labor is intensive. These workers often come from countries with agricultural traditions and are willing to undertake physically demanding tasks.
Accommodation and Food Services
The accommodation and food services sector is another major employer of TFWs. Restaurants, hotels, and other hospitality establishments frequently rely on foreign workers to fill positions such as cooks, servers, and housekeepers. This sector often experiences high turnover rates and needs help attracting and retaining domestic workers, particularly for lower-wage positions.
The tourism industry, a significant component of the accommodation and food services sector, relies heavily on TFWs, especially during peak seasons. This demand for seasonal workers increases the labor shortage and the need for foreign labor.
Retail Trade
While not as dependent on TFWs as agriculture, accommodation, and food services, the retail trade sector still employs many foreign workers. Like the hospitality industry, retail often faces challenges in attracting domestic workers for lower-wage positions, such as cashiers and sales associates.
The demand for TFWs in retail can vary depending on the specific type of store and its location. For example, rural or remote areas with limited access to a labor pool may rely more heavily on foreign workers.
Healthcare
While significant, the healthcare sector's dependence on TFWs is relatively low compared to other industries. While there are shortages in certain healthcare occupations, such as nurses and physicians, the overall use of TFWs in this sector is limited.
Canada has a strong domestic healthcare workforce. The country has implemented various strategies to address labor shortages, including education and immigration programs. However, it's essential to note that the healthcare sector's dependence on TFWs may increase due to an aging population and the growing demand for healthcare services.
Construction
The construction industry's need for TFWs changes depending on economic conditions. During periods of economic growth and expansion, the demand for construction labor often outpaces the supply of domestic workers, leading to an increased dependence on foreign workers.
However, the construction industry has also tried to train and employ domestic workers, particularly in skilled trades. Apprenticeship programs and other initiatives have helped reduce the need for TFWs in some construction industry segments.
Manufacturing
The manufacturing sector's use of TFWs is generally lower than in other sectors. While specific occupations or industries within manufacturing may experience labor shortages, the dependence on foreign workers is relatively less compared to other major economic sectors in Canada.
Canada has a solid manufacturing base with a skilled workforce. Many Canadian employers still prioritize hiring temporary foreign workers. However, as with other sectors, the demand for TFWs in manufacturing can fluctuate based on economic conditions and specific labor market needs.
Top Jobs in Each Sector Where Temporary Foreign Workers Are in Demand?
Here are the top jobs in each sector where TFWs are in demand in Canada, with National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes and annual average salaries from Canada's Job Bank.
Agriculture
The agriculture sector has the following top jobs for TFWs in Canada.
| Job Title | NOC Code | Annual Average Salary (CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| Farm Supervisor | 82030 | 58,546.17 |
| Agricultural Equipment Operator | 84120 | 54,038.20 |
| General Farm Worker | 85100 | 50,255.53 |
| Greenhouse Worker | 85103 | 48,636.49 |
| Crop Farm Laborer | 85101 | 44,576.85 |
Accommodation and Food Services
The accommodation and food services sector has the following in-demand jobs for TFWs in Canada.
| Job Title | NOC Code | Annual Average Salary (CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| Restaurant Manager | 60030 | 64,177.78 |
| Housekeeping Room Attendant | 65310 | 48,640.70 |
| Food and Beverage Server | 65200 | 45,934.13 |
| Hotel Front Desk Clerk | 64314 | 45,937.78 |
| Cook | 63200 | 43,232.28 |
Retail Trade
The top retail trade jobs for TFWs in Canada are outlined below.
| Job Title | NOC Code | Annual Average Salary (CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| Store Manager | 60020 | 101,973.04 |
| Merchandiser | 64100 | 75,667.41 |
| Customer Service Representative | 64409 | 55,422.18 |
| Retail Salesperson | 64100 | 43,231.81 |
| Cashier | 65100 | 40,533.04 |
Healthcare
The top healthcare jobs for TFWs in Canada include the following.
| Job Title | NOC Code | Annual Average Salary (CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| Physiotherapist | 31202 | 112,487.02 |
| Registered Nurse | 31301 | 109,141.97 |
| Medical Laboratory Technologist | 32120 | 97,927.12 |
| Medical Administrative Assistant | 13112 | 60,965.21 |
| Personal Support Worker | 44101 | 51,393.30 |
Construction
Below are the top Construction jobs for TFWs in Canada.
| Job Title | NOC Code | Annual Average Salary (CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| Electrician | 72200 | 91,881.86 |
| Heavy Equipment Operator | 73400 | 81,077.78 |
| Plumber | 72300 | 81,077.78 |
| Carpenter | 72310 | 81,072.52 |
| Construction Laborer | 75110 | 62,160.08 |
Manufacturing
Here are the top manufacturing jobs for TFWs in Canada.
| Job Title | NOC Code | Annual Average Salary (CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| Production Supervisor | 92024 | 81,066.38 |
| Assembler | 94204 | 60,804.61 |
| Machine Operator | 94107 | 56,745.64 |
| Quality Control Inspector | 94212 | 51,342.04 |
| General Laborer | 95109 | 48,649.30 |
Learn more about high-wage jobs for temporary foreign workers in Canada.
How Can I Work as a Temporary Foreign Worker in Canada?
To work in Canada as a temporary foreign worker, you need a job offer from a Canadian employer and a Canadian work permit. You can get a Canadian work permit as a TFW by applying to the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP).
Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
Working as a TFW in Canada involves several steps under the TFWP, which allows employers to hire foreign nationals when local candidates are unavailable. The first step is securing a job offer from a Canadian employer. The Canadian employer must then apply for a Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to demonstrate the need for a foreign worker and confirm that hiring one will not negatively affect the local labor market.
Once the LMIA is approved, the worker can apply for a temporary work permit. The application process typically requires documentation, including proof of job offer, identity verification, and evidence of qualifications or work experience relevant to the position. Furthermore, some occupations may require specific licensing or certification.
Now that you have a better understanding of the sectors in which TFWs in Canada are needed the most, you may begin the process of applying to work in Canada as a TFW with the assistance of a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant.
FAQs
What Should Potential Temporary Foreign Workers Know Before Applying?
As a potential temporary foreign worker, you should thoroughly research the job market in Canada and understand the requirements for your desired position. To ensure a smooth transition, you should familiarize yourself with your labor rights and responsibilities while working in Canada.
Can Temporary Foreign Workers Transition to Permanent Residency in Canada?
Yes, temporary foreign workers can transition to permanent residency in Canada through various immigration programs, such as the Canadian Experience Class or Provincial Nominee Programs. These pathways allow TFWs to establish long-term residency in Canada after gaining valuable experience there.
Do Temporary Foreign Workers in Canada Face Any Challenges?
Yes, TFWs in Canada often face challenges such as language barriers, cultural adjustments, and navigating the complexities of the immigration process. Many may also need help securing housing or adapting to new working environments. Some TFWs may experience job insecurity and limited access to social benefits, highlighting the need for better support systems.
