Navigating the Game: Work Permits and PR in Canada

Are you considering adding points to your Express Entry CRS score to get an invitation for permanent residency (PR) in Canada? Once you are a PR holder, you’ll enter Canada with the autonomy to choose your employer, rather than being forced into working for a company that may not align with your career goals. This strategy has become a game that many foreigners are playing to gain an edge in the immigration system.

The Recruitment Game: A Common but Unethical Practice

As a licensed recruiter in Nova Scotia, I have witnessed the common practice of foreign workers seeking employment offers from employers who offer a work permit only to leave them in the lurch once PR is obtained. This unethical practice not only tarnishes the reputation of the foreign workers but also places additional strain on the local job market. As a HR professional, I have firsthand experience with hiring foreign workers who then do not show up for work, leaving both the employer and professional networks in a difficult position.

Stricter Regulations and Caution in Hiring Foreign Workers

Because of such instances, many employers have become increasingly cautious in hiring foreign workers. In my previous role as the Head of HR, we developed strict regulations to avoid such situations. Today, we prioritize hiring individuals who are already on a post-graduate work permit in Canada, as we trust they will stay committed to the company. The laws in Canada prevent employers from entering into contracts of indentured labor, making it impossible to guarantee a worker’s loyalty after PR points are added to their CRS score.

The Impact on the Recruitment Industry and Genuine Workers

This game has had far-reaching consequences, affecting both the recruitment industry and genuine foreign workers. While some may benefit from short-term gains, the long-term impact on community values and the labor market is detrimental. These practices not only lead to a loss of trust in the immigration system but also disrupt the normal hiring processes for those who are genuinely seeking employment.

Supporting Ethical Recruitment Processes

TheIRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) must take action to address this issue. By encouraging ethical and responsible recruitment practices, they can help maintain the integrity of the PR process. Employers should also take a more proactive role in ensuring that their hiring practices are transparent and beneficial to all parties involved.

Understanding the Express Entry System

There are three streams under the Express Entry system: the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), Federal Skilled Worker (FSW), and Federal Skilled Trades Class (FST). Working in Canada for 12 months under the CEC or FSW can enhance your application by adding points to your CRS score, making you more competitive for an invitation to apply for PR. This system is designed to streamline the process of bringing skilled workers to Canada, ensuring that both individuals and the job market benefit from these placements.

Conclusion

The current system is fraught with ethical dilemmas, and it's essential for all stakeholders to work towards a more ethical and transparent process. By supporting and promoting responsible practices, we can build a more resilient and fair immigration system that benefits everyone, both in Canada and internationally.