Tech Talent Strategy launched, new immigration measures forthcoming

IMPACT — MEDIUM

The Canadian government has launched the Tech Talent Strategy to attract highly skilled foreign nationals to live and work in the country.

Tech Talent Strategy measures include:

• An open work permit stream for H-1B specialty occupation visa holders in the United States to apply for a Canadian work permit, and study or work permit options for their family members.
  • Beginning July 16, 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.
  • The H-1B specialty occupation visa holder work permit will be in effect for one year or until Canadian authorities receive 10,000 applications. Only principal applicants will count toward the application limit.
• An Innovation Stream under the International Mobility Program to attract highly talented individuals.
  • Individuals may be able to apply for employer-specific work permits valid for up to five years in specific industries identified by the government.
  • Individuals may be able to apply for an open work permit valid for up to five years for highly skilled workers in select in-demand occupations.
• A return to the 14-day service standard for work permits under the Global Skills Strategy.
• The creation of a STEM-specific draw under category-based selection to issue additional invitations to apply under the Express Entry program.

Additional Information: The Tech Talent Strategy also plans to improve the Start-up Visa Program, including additional allocated spots for the 2023, 2024 and 2025 program years. Start-up Visa Program applicants will be able to apply for a work permit valid for three years instead of one as well as an open work permit instead of a start-up permit. More information regarding the Tech Talent Strategy and immigration measures it includes is available here.

BAL Analysis: Canadian authorities launched the Tech Talent Strategy to attract and retain highly skilled foreign nationals to live and work in the country.

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

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