Philippines fast-track work visa scheme launched by Canada

The start of CAN Work Philippines, a pilot initiative at IRCC’s visa office in Manila, was announced today by the Honorable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

As a result of the pilot, qualified Filipino workers will be able to enter Canada more quickly. It will also make it possible for eligible Canadian companies to organize group appointments for medical checks and biometrics for prospective employees.

The pilot is for Canadian firms looking to hire 50 or more people or for crucial professions including healthcare, construction, and agri-food in the Philippines.

Employers must demonstrate their adherence to the International Organization for Migration (ION)’s fair and ethical recruiting requirements in order to take part in the program.

Additionally, the IRCC is donating $200,000 to the IOM to aid in the Philippines’ adoption of fair and moral hiring practices. The grant will enable IOM to collaborate with the Philippine government, hold training sessions, and spread awareness of the Fair and Ethical Recruitment Due Diligence Toolkit among businesses who are engaged in or interested in hiring talent in the Philippines.

“Tens of thousands of temporary foreign workers from all over the world arrive in Canada each year, bringing with them their skills to help the country’s economy expand and address labor market shortages. This includes a sizable proportion of recent immigrants from the Philippines. The CAN Work Philippines pilot will enable our industry in addressing labor market shortages and provide Canada a significant advantage in the global competition for talent. In addition, the financing for the IOM shows our continuous dedication to honest and ethical hiring procedures and will support maintaining the health, safety, and standard of living of temporary foreign workers, according to Marc Miller.

A significant portion of immigrants to Canada originate from the Philippines. By solving labor shortages in the Canadian economy and enhancing Canada’s status as a top location for international talent, this pilot will contribute to deepening the bonds of friendship and cooperation between our two countries.