Reform or Renewal? BC’s Stand on Temporary Foreign Worker Program and the Future of Opportunity
BY: Afeez Akinleye, Community Columnist
“A society is not measured by how many we admit, but by how well we integrate — how we ensure that every newcomer and every local has dignity, stability, and a place to thrive.” – Afeez Akinleye
When Daniel, a young father from the Philippines, arrived in BC through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), he dreamed of stability and a chance to give his children a brighter future. Instead, he faced rising rent, unpredictable shifts, and few protections when things went wrong. Like many families across the province, Daniel learned that navigating work, housing, and community life was more challenging than he imagined.
His story is not unique. Across BC, families, young workers, and newcomers are feeling the squeeze — from rising housing costs to shrinking job options. For many immigrant families, programs like the TFWP represent their first doorway to building a stable life in BC. These concerns echo in town halls, classrooms, and workplaces, reminding us that labour and housing policies are not abstract debates, but real choices shaping the lives of
neighbors.
Eby argues that the TFWP contributes to housing pressures, youth unemployment, and exploitation. Critics counter that the real problem lies not with the workers themselves, but with loopholes and weak oversight that leave them vulnerable. This tension reflects a deeper question for BC: how do we balance economic need with fairness, dignity, and sustainable growth?
In early 2025, BC approved about 11,000 temporary foreign worker positions — a 37% drop from the previous year, sharper than the national decline. While this may sound alarming, it also signals a turning point: fewer approvals create more room for local families, young workers, and neighbors seeking stable opportunities.
The Shifting Landscape
Yes, there have been stories of companies misusing the program and newcomers in Surrey being pressured into buying fake permits — a reminder of how fragile workers can be when oversight is weak. But these challenges highlight a positive truth: stronger rules mean fewer opportunities for exploitation and more chances for honest work that benefits the whole community.
Ottawa’s reforms — including limiting approvals in high-unemployment areas, raising wage standards, and capping low-wage hires — are designed to promote fairness. These changes aren’t just bureaucratic — they mean safer workplaces, fairer wages, and stronger protections for our neighbors. For businesses in rural towns. they present a chance to partner with communities and governments to build sustainable, long-term solutions. For newcomer families, the TFWP can still serve as a doorway — one that now leads toward stability, protection, and a clearer path to belonging in BC.
What This Means for Workers and Job Seekers
For local families, the shift away from heavy reliance on temporary workers could open new doors in food services, caregiving, and hospitality. More lasting opportunities exist in trades, healthcare, clean energy, and technology — sectors with consistent demand. Smaller towns, where housing is more affordable and jobs often go unfilled, may become ideal places for families and young workers to find stability. For newcomers, credibility and trust are more important than ever. Workers with clean records, certifications, and community connections will be better positioned as oversight strengthens. Integration is not only about jobs — it’s about dignity, belonging, and security for the whole family.
At MyRoof Group, we witness this reality every day. Families come to us not just looking for housing, but for guidance, support, and a sense of community. Housing shortages and employment gaps often collide, and debates around the TFWP are not abstract — they directly shape the lives of neighbors sitting across our kitchen tables. Beyond housing, we provide job referrals, immigration guidance, and community engagement to help families navigate these transitions.
“I never thought I could find work and housing at the same time,” says Lina, a young mother from Mexico. “But with support from local programs and neighbors, my family is finally settling in.”
Carlos, a recent graduate, shares, “Moving to a smaller town seemed risky, but I found a job and a supportive community that welcomed me.”
Our work is one small part of a larger solution: ensuring BC’s labour and housing systems grow in ways that welcome, protect, and empower. Looking forward, workers and job seekers can take actionable steps: invest in skills that last, watch for policy changes, and explore opportunities in smaller communities. Build trust, stay connected, and participate in town halls or community networks. These strategies are not just about survival — they are tools for building a future where every worker feels valued and included.
Community Engagement and Networking: Building Bridges to Opportunity
For families and young workers, reduced reliance on the TFWP means new doors opening in industries that have long depended on temporary labour. Caregiving, hospitality, and food services may become more accessible to locals, while trades, healthcare, clean energy, and technology offer lasting career paths. Smaller communities also provide opportunities to establish roots, access affordable housing, and secure steady employment.
For newcomers, the path forward is about more than just finding a job — it’s about belonging. Workers who arrive with clean records, relevant certifications, and strong community ties are better positioned as oversight increases. Engaging with neighbors, joining community groups, attending town halls, and seeking mentorship from established professionals can turn uncertainty into opportunity.
Together, these changes represent more than policy adjustments — they are an invitation to families, young workers, and neighbors to shape a fairer, stronger, and more resilient British Columbia. By building skills, trust, and community connections, everyone can contribute to workplaces and neighborhoods where opportunity and belonging grow side by side.
References
Canada should reform or axe foreign worker visa, British Columbia Premier says — Economic Times
Eby doubles down on temporary foreign worker critique — Global News
Temporary foreign worker program should be ‘reformed significantly or cancelled’: Eby — Global News
B.C. Premier calls for cancellation or reform of TFWP — HCAMag
Canada prepares to revise Temporary Foreign Worker Program — Economic Times
Canadian Chamber of Commerce says immigration system is ‘facing a crisis’ — Global News
David Eby in Ottawa to lobby Mark Carney for more investment in B.C. projects — Global News
Eby tied for 2nd least popular premier in Canada, as poll finds ‘downward trend’ — Global News
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