If you have ever wanted to hire talent from another province, you probably know it can get complicated. Different provinces have different licensing rules, certifications, and hiring requirements. But with the new Free Trade and Labour Mobility in Canada Act, things just got a whole lot easier for Ontario employers.
This legislation aims to reduce barriers so that qualified workers can move freely across Canada without jumping through endless hoops. That means you can expand your search for top talent far beyond Ontario’s borders.
What the New Act Means for Employers
The Free Trade and Labour Mobility in Canada Act focuses on making it easier for workers to have their qualifications recognized in other provinces. For Ontario employers, this means:
- Fewer delays when hiring workers from outside Ontario
- Less paperwork and red tape around verifying credentials
- A wider talent pool to choose from
💡Pro Tip: This is especially helpful for industries facing labour shortages, like construction, skilled trades, health care, and tech.
Key Benefits for Ontario Businesses
1. Access to a Larger Talent Pool
You can now hire qualified candidates from across the country without worrying about whether their credentials will transfer.
2. Faster Hiring Timelines
With fewer bureaucratic hurdles, you can get new hires started sooner, which keeps your projects and operations running smoothly.
3. Better Flexibility in Remote Work
The act supports a more mobile workforce, which fits perfectly with remote and hybrid work models.
💡Pro Tip: Even if your hires are working remotely, you still need to understand payroll, tax, and employment standards for their province of residence.
What You Still Need to Watch Out For
While the act removes a lot of red tape, employers should still be aware of:
- Provincial Employment Standards: Vacation pay, overtime rules, and statutory holidays can differ across provinces.
- Payroll Taxes: You may need to register for payroll remittances in the employee’s province of residence.
- Benefits Plans: Check whether your benefits package applies nationally.
How a CFO or Financial Controller Can Help
Hiring outside Ontario can open amazing opportunities, but it also adds complexity to your payroll, tax compliance, and reporting. A professional who offers Financial Controller Services can:
- Ensure payroll is accurate for multiple provinces
- Keep you compliant with varying employment laws
- Help you budget for any cost differences when hiring from another province
The Bottom Line
The Free Trade and Labour Mobility in Canada Act is a game-changer for Ontario employers. It makes it easier than ever to hire the right person for the job, no matter where they live in Canada. With the right financial and HR systems in place, you can take advantage of this new flexibility without creating headaches for yourself.
Want help with your business finances? Contact our accounting team today to get expert support tailored to your needs.
