We are thrilled to bring you this groundbreaking news that will shape the future of tech innovation in Canada. Let's dive into the details and explore how this strategy will open doors of opportunity for skilled tech professionals around the world in Canada.
š Unlocking the Potential of Tech Professionals from Every Corner of the Globe
Canada, known for its welcoming nature and diverse culture, has long been a dream destination for tech professionals seeking new horizons. Now, with the launch of the groundbreaking Tech Talent Strategy at Collision 2023, Canada is cementing its position as a global tech hub, ready to attract the brightest minds in the industry.
šEmbracing Innovation and Driving Economic Growth
Canada's Tech Talent Strategy aims to bridge the skills gap in Canada's rapidly evolving tech sector. With an increasing demand for skilled professionals, the strategy provides a clear roadmap for attracting top talent from around the world. By ensuring the right people with the right skills are in the right jobs, Canada aims to fuel innovation, drive economic growth, and solidify its position as a global tech powerhouse.
š Connecting Tech Professionals with Canadian Opportunities
Under this forward-thinking strategy, Canada will implement a range of initiatives to attract tech talent, such as streamlined visa processes, enhanced work permit options, and targeted recruitment efforts. The goal is to make Canada an even more attractive destination for skilled tech professionals, enabling them to contribute their expertise to the country's thriving tech ecosystem.
āØ Here are the 6 key elements of Canada's Tech Talent Strategy:
1ļøā£ Open Work Permit Stream for H-1B Visa Holders
Are you a H-1B Visa Holder? This is for you.
The Tech Talent Strategy includes the creation of an open work permit stream for H-1B specialty occupation visa holders in the US. This initiative allows you and your accompanying family members to apply for Canadian work permits and study or work permit options, opening up new opportunities for them in Canada.
The new H1-B specialty occupation visa holder work permit will be available as of July 16, 2023. Approved applicants will receive an open work permit of up to three years in duration, which means you will be able to work for almost any employer anywhere in Canada. Your spouses and dependants will also be eligible to apply for a temporary resident visa, with a work or study permit, as needed.
You will need to work on this quickly though as this measure will remain in effect for one year, or until Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) receives 10,000 applications. Only principal applicants, and not their accompanying family members, will count toward the application cap. We anticipate that this will be a very popular program.
2ļøā£ Innovation Stream
Are you a highly skilled international professional?
Canada will develop an Innovation Stream under the International Mobility Program to attract highly talented individuals. This includes employer-specific work permits for up to five years for workers contributing to Canada's industrial innovation goals and open work permits for up to five years for highly skilled workers in select in-demand occupations. Stay tune for more details in the coming weeks.
3ļøā£ Improvements to Start-up Visa Program
Are you an international entrepreneur interested in launching an innovative business in Canada?
The Tech Talent Strategy includes improvements to the Start-up Visa Program for you, increasing the number of spots available for applicants from 1000 to 3500 and extending the work permit duration
You will now be able to apply for a work permit that is up to three years in duration instead of the previous one-year limit.
You can now apply for an open work permit instead of one that restricts you to working for your own start-up.
The three-year open work permit is available to each member of your entrepreneurial team, not just those considered essential and urgently needed in Canada.
Applications supported by venture capital, angel investor groups, and business incubators with committed capital will be prioritized. Business incubators that are members of Canada's Tech Network will also receive priority.
4ļøā£ Global Skills Strategy
The Tech Talent Strategy reinforces the Global Skills Strategy by returning to the 14-day service standard for work permits. This streamlines the process for highly skilled workers to come to Canada and contribute their expertise to the tech industry.
5ļøā£Digital Nomad Strategy
Are you a Digital Nomad ?
The digital nomad strategy would allow you to work in Canada with a foreign employer for up to six months. Should you receive a job offer while you are in Canada, Canada is going to allow you to continue to stay at work in Canada. Sounds like a great plan, right? Stay tuned for more information in the coming monts.
6ļøā£STEM-specific Express Entry draw
Are you an International STEM professional?
Canada will be starting STEM specific Express Entry draw this summer. All you need to do is to meet the requirements for one of the three Federal PR programs for Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker, Federal Trades Skill, Canadian Experience Class) and have at least 6 months of STEM work experience to be eligible for the STEM-specific Draws.
š Canada's Tech Talent Strategy: Shaping the Future of Tech Innovation
The Government of Canada is fully committed to embracing Canada's emerging role as a leader in global tech talent recruitment and attraction. This comprehensive strategy not only aims to fill in-demand jobs today but also focuses on attracting the skills and business talent needed to create the jobs of tomorrow.
With Canada's booming information and communications technology sector, the country has become an attractive destination for tech professionals. Canadian cities have been ranked among the top markets in North America for tech talent concentration and job growth. Moreover, Canada has been recognized as the most attractive destination for immigrant entrepreneurs in a report by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).
For more information or assistance with your immigration journey, contact us today. We are here to help you navigate the exciting opportunities presented by Canada's Tech Talent Strategy.
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