New Regime for Canadian Temporary Foreign Work Permits and the Tax Consequences of Hiring Temporary Foreign Workers

On April 1, 2011, changes to the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFW) came into effect in Canada. As non-compliance will result in harsh sanctions, including a two-year ban from hiring TFWs, companies should perform a close review of their foreign worker portfolios to ensure compliance.

Bennett Jones hosts a seminar that will identify the key requirements managers and legal counsel should be aware of when it comes to temporary foreign workers.

The seminar will address the following changes that may affect your company:

1. A four-year cap on Canadian work permits.
2. A potential two-year ban for offending employers.
3. Criteria for a "genuine" offer of employment.

If your company currently employs foreign nationals or plans to do so in the future, you need to be aware of these new regulations so you can comply.

Once a temporary foreign worker is hired, there are tax consequences for both your company and the foreign national. This seminar will examine:

1. Your withholding obligations.
2. When the foreign national become subject to Canadian income tax.
3. The potential for treaty relief and waivers from withholding tax.