Canada is set to admit about 230,000 foreign workers in 2026, including Nigerians seeking employment opportunities in the country, as the federal government introduces changes that could allow some employers to hire more temporary foreign workers.
The figure comprises 60,000 workers through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) and another 170,000 through the International Mobility Program (IMP) under Canada’s 2026 immigration levels plan.
The latest change affects employers operating across several small work locations and could create additional opportunities for foreign workers seeking jobs in sectors covered by the TFWP.
What has changed?
Under the existing rules, employers generally cannot have more than 10 per cent of their workforce made up of low-wage temporary foreign workers.
The limit rises to 20 per cent for employers in certain in-demand sectors, including healthcare, construction and food production.
However, an update published by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) on August 18, 2026, allows employers with fewer than 10 employees at individual work locations to use the number of workers at each location when calculating their workforce cap.
Under the revised calculation, eligible employers can hire:
- One low-wage temporary foreign worker per work location where the 10 per cent cap applies.
- Up to two workers per location where the 20 per cent cap applies to eligible in-demand sectors.
Previously, the alternative calculation was generally based on employers having fewer than 10 employees across their entire workforce.
The change could therefore benefit businesses that operate several smaller locations and previously had limited access to foreign workers under the low-wage stream.
Who can apply?
The programme is employer-driven, meaning foreign workers cannot simply apply directly for a TFWP work permit without a Canadian employer first taking the necessary steps.
Employers seeking to hire through the TFWP must generally obtain a positive or neutral Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from ESDC.
The LMIA is used to demonstrate that the employer has been unable to find a suitable Canadian citizen or permanent resident to fill the position.
Once the employer receives the required approval, the foreign worker can proceed with their work permit application.
How Nigerians can apply
Nigerians interested in working in Canada through the TFWP should first look for a genuine Canadian employer offering an eligible position.
The general process is:
1. Find an eligible Canadian job
The applicant needs a legitimate job offer from a Canadian employer willing to hire foreign workers.
2. Employer applies for an LMIA
The Canadian employer applies to ESDC for an LMIA where one is required. The employer must demonstrate that the position meets the relevant requirements and that there is a need to recruit a foreign worker.
3. Receive a positive or neutral LMIA
If approved, the employer provides the worker with the documents needed for the work permit application.
4. Apply for a Canadian work permit
The foreign worker then applies for a work permit and submits the required documents, including information about the job and employer.
5. Meet Canada’s admissibility requirements
Applicants must satisfy Canada’s immigration requirements, which can include demonstrating that they are qualified for the position and meeting applicable medical, security and other requirements.
Vanguard News
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