Updated on April 29, 2025 by canadian immigration experts
Recognized Employer Pilot (REP): 2025
Snapshot
| Feature | Detail | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Status | Active for existing participants • Closed to new applications since 16 Sept 2024 | Employers already admitted can keep using simplified LMIAs until fall 2026 |
| LMIA validity | Up to 36 months (covers three seasons/years) | Cuts renewal paperwork and advertising costs |
| Streamlined forms | Short-form “Recognized LMIA” with fewer proof documents | Faster processing through ESDC |
| Coverage | 84 high-demand occupations (COPS list) across agriculture & non-ag sectors Moving2Canada | Aligns with national labour-shortage data |
| Upcoming change | 20 % wage-threshold hike for high-wage stream on 8 Nov 2024 Government of Canada | Budget for higher minimum offers in 2025 LMIA submissions |
What Is the Recognized Employer Pilot?
The REP is a three-year initiative (2023-2026) inside Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). It rewards employers with a strong compliance history by granting:
Longer-lasting LMIAs (valid 36 months instead of 18)
Condensed renewal packages that reuse previous recruitment proofs
A “Recognized Employer” badge on Job Bank ads, boosting candidate trust
By shrinking paperwork, REP targets chronic labour shortages without sacrificing worker protections handled by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC).
Eligibility Checklist (Quick Test)
Track record: ≥ 3 positive LMIAs for the same NOC occupation during the past 5 years.
Occupation on COPS list: Job appears in the national COPS labour-pressure index.
Clean compliance: No serious TFWP violations, wage claw-backs, or worker mistreatment.
Complete wages & benefits evidence (advertising not required after first approval).
Did you miss the 16 Sept 2024 intake cut-off?
New companies can no longer join REP, but you may still hire under regular LMIA or explore the Global Talent Stream or IMP pathways.
At its core, the REP’s approach is aimed at assisting eligible employers in forming effective staffing strategies while concurrently reducing the volume of LMIA applications submitted over a three-year period. In addition, recognized employers will receive a unique Job Bank designation, enhancing their credibility and standing among potential workers.
Timeline Recap & Current Phase
| Date | Milestone |
|---|---|
| Sept 2023 | Phase 1 opens to Primary Agriculture employers. |
| Jan 2024 | Phase 2 extends to all sectors. |
| Sept 16 2024 | Intake closed—no further employer enrolment. |
| 2025-2026 | Operations phase: Recognized employers continue simplified LMIA renewals until pilot sunset in fall 2026. oaicite:5 |
Application Flow for Recognized Employers (2025-26 Renewals)
Log in to the LMIA Online Portal → choose Recognized Employer option.
Upload minimal proofs:
Updated wage offer (meet Nov 2024 threshold)
Signed employment contract template
Pay processing fee (unchanged – CAN $1,000 per position).
Receive decision letter → share with candidate for work-permit filing.
Processing times for REP renewals average 10–15 business days, compared with 40-plus days for standard high-wage LMIAs.
Benefits for Employers & Workers
Planning certainty: Three-year validity lets HR map recruitment cycles.
Lower turnover risk: Faster renewals help retain experienced foreign staff.
Reputational boost: Job Bank badge signals compliance to regulators and recruits.
Worker protection: Regular audits still apply; rights and wages remain identical to non-REP hires.
2025 Updates Employers Must Track
| Policy Shift | Effective | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| High-wage threshold +20 % | 8 Nov 2024 | Budget adjustments for 2025 LMIA offers Government of Canada |
| No more lawyer/CPA attestations for legitimacy | 28 Oct 2024 | Submit financial statements instead |
| TFWP cap change (low-wage share reduced) | 1 Jan 2025 | May limit low-wage recruitment outside EP stream |
Keep your compliance records pristine; ESDC can revoke REP status for serious violations, forcing a return to full LMIA requirements.
FAQs (People Also Ask)
Can I add new occupations under my existing REP number?
Yes—if the NOC code is on the COPS list and within your sector. Submit a fresh simplified LMIA referencing your REP ID.
Does REP waive the $1,000 LMIA fee?
No. The fee and mandatory worker-protection conditions stay unchanged.
Are seasonal agricultural workers eligible?
Only employers—not workers—are REP holders. SAWP positions in Primary Agriculture can be requested through a Recognized LMIA if the farm is enrolled.
What happens after fall 2026?
ESDC will evaluate pilot results; employers should prepare for either a permanent stream or a return to regular LMIAs. Monitor official updates.
Next Steps: Secure Your Workforce Strategy
Staying ahead of Canada’s evolving foreign-worker rules is vital. Whether you’re maximizing your REP status, switching to the Global Talent Stream, or navigating regular LMIAs, expert guidance saves time and safeguards compliance.
We support employers and investors with end-to-end immigration solutions—from labour-market analysis to work-permit filing and permanent residence pathways.
