On June 27, 2023 the Honorable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, announced Canada’s Tech Talent strategy. This announcement includes an open work permit stream for H1B specialty occupation visa holders in the US to apply for a Canadian work permit and study or work permit options for their accompanying family members.
This options for H1B visa holders will be available as of July 16, 2023 and will remain open for up to 1 year or until it has been filled. The stream has capacity for 10,000 people. Only principal applicants, and not their accompanying family members, will count toward the application cap.
Approved applicants will receive an open work permit of up to three years in duration, which means they will be able to work for almost any employer anywhere in Canada. Their spouses and dependants will also be eligible to apply for a temporary resident visa, with a work or study permit, as needed.
This will expand the opportunities available for skilled workers to continue to pursue their careers in the high-tech sector and contribute to economic growth and prosperity in North America.
This is an exciting opportunity for H1B holders that have been affected by the massive layoffs in tech or for people that may be waiting (or do not wish to wait) for a green card.
If you have any questions, be sure to schedule a strategy session to discuss this opportunity.