News
January 31, 2025

How Canadian Employers Can Overcome Immigration Challenges and Retain Foreign Workers

In recent months, immigration policy changes have created uncertainty for both Canadian employers and foreign workers. Many companies that rely on skilled foreign employees are now facing unexpected challenges in renewing work permits or securing Labor Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs). These shifts have made workforce planning more difficult, leaving employers searching for solutions to retain their valuable employees.

At IMM Recruitment, we specialize in guiding businesses through these complexities, ensuring they have the right strategies in place to keep their workforce intact.

The Current Challenges for Employers

With evolving immigration policies, many employers are encountering:

• Restrictions on LMIA approvals, making it harder to secure new work permits.

• Delays and uncertainties in the permanent residency process, affecting long-term workforce planning.

• Foreign workers reaching the end of their work permits with limited renewal options.

Employers who have invested time and resources in training foreign employees are now left wondering how to retain them. Fortunately, there are solutions.

Tailored Solutions for Retaining Foreign Workers

At IMM Recruitment, we take a personalized approach to each case, understanding that no two employees have the same immigration background. Here’s how we help:

1. Exploring Alternative Immigration Pathways

Not all foreign workers need an LMIA to stay in Canada. We assess each employee’s status to identify alternative routes, such as:

• Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): Some provinces offer pathways for skilled workers to apply for permanent residency.

• Bridging Open Work Permits (BOWP): If an employee is in the process of applying for permanent residency, they may qualify for a work permit extension.

• Employer-Specific Work Permits: Some industries have specialized programs that allow for work permit renewals outside the LMIA process.

2. Leveraging Spousal Work Permits

In some cases, an employee’s spouse may hold a visa or permit that allows them to apply for a work permit. We analyze family-based options to determine if this can provide a viable solution for continued employment.

3. Strategic Workforce Planning and Consultation

Since immigration policies are changing rapidly, businesses must stay informed to make proactive staffing decisions. We offer in-depth consultations to help employers:

• Understand the latest immigration updates.

• Identify risks and opportunities in their workforce.

• Develop long-term recruitment strategies that align with new regulations.

Why Employers Must Act Now

The demand for skilled workers in Canada hasn’t decreased—if anything, it has grown. However, policy barriers are making it more difficult for businesses to bring in or retain talent. Without a plan, companies risk losing essential employees and facing operational disruptions.

By working with IMM Recruitment, employers can navigate these changes with confidence. Our expertise in immigration, recruitment, and workforce planning ensures that businesses have access to the best possible solutions.

If your company is facing challenges due to recent immigration shifts, we’re here to help. Contact us today for a consultation and secure the future of your workforce.