Foreign workers pay into the EI program, but eligibility for benefits when their jobs end isn't automatic
Background
The employment insurance program (EI) is a federal insurance program that provides temporary income support to unemployed workers while they look for employment or upgrade their skills. It’s available only to those who were employed in insurable employment, have paid premiums in the year immediately preceding their application for benefits and meet the qualifying conditions of the program. Foreign workers usually pay into the program, but whether they’re eligible to receive benefits depends on their circumstances. Sergio Karas looks at the different circumstances that can exist for foreign workers applying for EI benefits.
