Temporary Foreign Worker Program — Express Entry

Canadian employers facing persistent skills shortages often need more than short-term staffing solutions. The Temporary Foreign Worker Program — Express Entry offers a pathway to bring in highly skilled talent when qualified Canadians or permanent residents aren’t available, while also helping that worker move toward permanent residency. Administered by Employment and Social Development Canada in collaboration with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, this national program is designed for businesses that need stability and long-term workforce planning, not just a temporary fix.

Through this stream, employers can make a qualifying job offer that aligns with Canada’s Express Entry economic immigration programs, covering a wide range of management, professional, technical, and skilled trade roles. What makes this option especially attractive is the “dual intent” approach: businesses can hire the worker on a temporary basis while their permanent residence application is being processed. This allows employers across most industries to fill critical roles sooner, reduce ongoing recruitment disruptions, and retain skilled workers for longer-term growth.

The program is particularly relevant for established small, medium-sized, and larger employers operating outside Quebec who are prepared to offer full-time, non-seasonal positions. While costs and timelines vary by situation, the support is non-repayable and focused on addressing genuine labour gaps. For employers weighing whether this approach fits their hiring strategy, a closer look at requirements and process details can clarify how this program could support their workforce needs.