Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker Program Experiences Record Low Arrivals

Recent government data reveals a significant decline in arrivals under Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). In October 2025, only 3,215 new TFWP work permit holders entered the country, marking the lowest monthly figure since December 2023.

The decrease in arrivals can be attributed to various policy measures implemented by the federal government. These include a halt on processing low-wage LMIA applications, raising wage thresholds for applications, and an overall reduction in TFWP levels.

Factors Contributing to the Drop in TFWP Arrivals

Accusations of the TFWP depressing wages and straining the labor market have led to calls for its abolition. The Conservative Party in Canada has criticized the program for contributing to high youth unemployment and impacting the housing sector.

Government policies introduced since July 2024 have significantly curtailed new arrivals under the TFWP. Measures include blocking applications in regions with high unemployment rates, increasing wage thresholds, reducing employer workforce caps, and limiting spousal open work permits to select skilled occupations.

The latest Immigration Levels Plan by the federal government aims to maintain a target of 60,