H-1B work permit stream filled in 48 hours

IMPACT — HIGH

The Canadian government’s new open work permit stream for certain U.S. H-1B visa holders reached its cap of 10,000 applications within 48 hours of opening this week.

Key Points:

• The stream allows H-1B specialty occupation visa holders in the United States to apply for a Canadian open work permit. Only principal applicants count toward the application limit.
• Approved applicants will receive an open work permit valid for up to three years. Spouses and dependents will also be eligible to apply for a temporary resident visa with a work or study permit.

Additional Information: Officials launched the stream as part of a new Tech Talent Strategy to attract highly skilled foreign nationals to live and work in Canada. More information on the Tech Talent Strategy and its included immigration measures is available here.

This alert has been provided by the BAL U.S. Practice Group. For additional information, please contact berryapplemanleiden@bal.com.

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