Canadian Companies Must Pay to Temporary Workers during 14-day Quarantine

The Canadian federal government has launched the latest rules for companies below the International Mobility Program in light of limitations in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The modifications make it necessary for companies to permit workers to finish their 14 days of quarantine on landing in Canada and pay them for that period, even if they are not able to work.

The International Mobility Program Reforms

The IMP reforms come after limitations were put in place at the federal level below the Quarantine Act. The IMP reforms state that both the provincial health regulations and laws and Quarantine Act related to COVID-19 need to be followed by temporary workers.

“This comprises expecting a worker to do anything contrary to those conditions,” states in a statement from Refugees, Immigration, and Citizenship Canada (I.R.C.C).

Furthermore, the reforms mean workers neglecting to follow rules comprising the necessary 14-day quarantine term can become unsuitable to Canada. Companies who do not comply with rules could face regulatory monetary fines and be prevented from recruiting foreign workers.

I.R.C.C states officers will attend inspections to assure rules are being followed.  Where a job earlier offered is no longer accessible, applicants should be advised not to travel to Canada till it becomes accessible, IRCC says.

The International Mobility Program permits Canadian companies to hire international workers on a Canada work permit without the demand for a Labour Market Impact (L.M.I.A) Assessment. Foreign citizens traveling to Canada need to be doing so for ‘non-optional and non-discretionary’ intentions even if they are included by exceptions to COVID-19 limitations. I.R.C.C says those included by exceptions to travel limitations will not be allowed to travel ‘for the intentions of recreation, tourism, and entertainment’.

Currently, any traveler with COVID-19 signs will not be permitted to enter Canada despite the reason for travel or exception. Furthermore, anyone coming to Canada from the USA or any other nation is expected to self-quarantine for 14 days upon entry. Travelers are also expected to provide a quarantine plan, with features of where they will live, how they will receive groceries and medication, and whether they will be living with vulnerable people.