Alberta introduces Bill 26 to tighten oversight of foreign worker recruitment

The Alberta government has introduced Bill 26, the Immigration Oversight Act, aimed at increasing transparency in the recruitment of foreign workers across the province.

According to a provincial government announcement, the proposed legislation would require all businesses to register with the province before hiring employees through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program. The measure is intended to strengthen oversight and ensure employers follow provincial rules when bringing in workers from abroad.

The bill also proposes a new licensing system for immigration consultants and recruitment agents. According to the government, the system is designed to regulate intermediaries and address concerns about illegal practices, including charging excessive fees to workers in exchange for job placements.

Under the proposed law, businesses or agents found violating the rules could face significant penalties. The government said fines would apply, and in serious cases, offenders could face up to 12 months in jail. Businesses found guilty could also be permanently banned from participating in the program.

The legislation has been introduced but has not yet passed in the legislature. It would need to go through debate and approval before coming into force.