Changes to Global Talent Occupations list

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Canada has updated the Global Talent Occupations list for Category B of the Global Talent Stream.

What does the change mean? Computer network technicians have been added to the list and engineering, architecture and science managers have been removed. Additionally, new minimum wage requirements have been released for certain professions.

• Implementation time frame: July 2019.
• Visas/permits affected: Global Talent Stream – Category B.
• Who is affected: Foreign nationals in certain occupations applying for the Global Talent Stream Category B, including:
  • Computer and information systems managers
  • Computer engineers
  • Mathematicians and statisticians
  • Information systems analysts and consultants
  • Database analysts and data administrators
  • Software engineers and designers
  • Computer programmers and interactive media developers
  • Web designers and developers
  • Computer network technicians
  • Information systems testing technicians
  • Producers, technical, creative and artistic directors and project managers – visual effects and video games
  • Digital media designers
• Next steps: Submissions for occupations being removed from the list will be accepted until Aug. 4, 2019. Any submissions which include engineering, architecture and science managers positions received after this date will not be processed.

Background: On June 12, 2017, Canada launched its Global Skills Strategy, a three-pronged plan to attract high-skilled foreign talent by providing a faster and more predictable process for qualifying companies and employees. The plan introduced short-term work permit exemptions and two-week work permit processing, and launched the Global Talent Stream pilot program.

Analysis & Comments: Employers should note the changes to the Global Talent Occupation list. Any Global Talent Stream applications for professions recently removed from the list cannot be submitted after Aug. 4. Employers should visit the Canadian government site for more information regarding minimum wage requirements.

This alert was prepared by Garson LLP, an independent law firm, allied with Deloitte LLP in Canada.