Introduced in 2017, the Global Talent Stream was designed to fast track work visa applications for eligible foreign workers with skills required by Canadian employers in the IT sector.

According to the Council of Canadian Innovators, “Canada’s Global Talent Stream pilot has been a “game-changer” for high-growth Canadian start-ups and the federal government’s proposal to make it permanent would be a welcome move”.

The program allows employers to submit the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), which waives the requirement to prove they tried recruiting in Canada first and expedites the approval process.

If the LMIA finds there are no Canadian workers available to do the job, a work visa can be obtained in as little as 10 business days, allowing employers quick access to highly skilled labour. To see more information about the Global Talent Stream, click here.

The proposal to make the Global Talent Stream permanent was announced in the 2019 federal budget. It was followed calls to do so from business associations including the Council of Canadian Innovators, which represents more than 100 of Canada’s fastest growing technology companies.

If you are a working professional in the IT sector and you want to work in Canada, check if you are eligible for this program by submitting our pre-assessment form.

If you travel somewhere, where you may need a visa, or you have a question regarding Canadian Immigration – contact us.