The government of Canada has announced new measures to attract high tech workers. Immigration lawyer Andy Semotiuk provides the highlights.
1. Streamline Canadian Work Permits For H-1B Visa Holders
Starting from July 16, 2023, U.S.-based H-1B workers and their immediate family members will be able to apply for open Canadian work permits of up to three years, enabling them to explore employment opportunities with almost any Canadian employer.
2. Innovation Stream Under The International Mobility Program
- Canada plans to launch the Innovation Stream by the end of 2023
- will exempt highly skilled workers from the labor market impact assessment (LMIA) process (similar to PERM labor certifications in the US)
- streamlines the hiring process for high-growth employers
3. Promote Canada As A Destination For Digital Nomads
- digital nomads currently need only visitor status to relocate to Canada for up to six months while they perform their job remotely for a foreign company
- additional policies to attract digital nomads to Canada are being considered, including paths to temporary and permanent residency
4. Strengthen Existing Programs For High-Skilled Tech Workers
Global Talent Stream: two-week standard for processing labour market impact assessments for employers, two-week standard for work permit applications
Start-Up Visa: allow applicants to apply for an open work permit of up to three years, rather than a one-year work permit that limits them to work solely for their own start-up.
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