IRCC has released a program delivery update on July 3, 2025, regarding how officers should continue to assess wages under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). This update provides guidance for how Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) staff should handle wage information during the work permit application process.
While the update is primarily for internal use, it’s been published publicly as a courtesy to employers, consultants, and stakeholders involved in the TFWP process.
What Has Changed?
A note has been added to the official processing instructions for assessing wages under the TFWP. The key message:
Officers are instructed to continue using the wage listed in the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) when assessing work permit applications under the TFWP.
This clarification helps ensure processing consistency during a period of broader policy review.
Official update – Wage Review (July 2025)
Why This Matters for Employers and Foreign Workers
Employers who have submitted a valid LMIA do not need to revise the wage they listed—even if median wage rates may have changed since submission—unless specifically instructed by Service Canada.
For foreign workers, this means:
- Your wage offer remains valid if it matches the approved LMIA
- You can continue your work permit process without interruption due to wage re-evaluation
This update offers clarity and reduces uncertainty, especially for those already in the application pipeline.
Background: Wage Requirements Under TFWP
Under the TFWP, employers must:
- Pay at least the median wage for the occupation and region
- Submit an LMIA application showing proof of efforts to hire Canadians and offering fair compensation
- Ensure compliance with employment standards and labour laws
IRCC officers rely on the wage information in the approved LMIA to validate work permit eligibility. The July 2025 update reaffirms that this remains the standard practice, even as broader wage policies may be under review.
What Employers Should Do
- Continue offering wages as approved in your LMIA
- Keep documentation of your approved LMIA, job offer, and compliance records
- Watch for any future policy changes that may come into effect in early 2026
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