Minister Fraser launches Canada’s first-ever Tech Talent Strategy at Collision 2023
Today at Collision 2023, the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship launched Canada’s first-ever Tech Talent Strategy. This new strategy includes new measures and improvements on existing measures to help businesses in Canada thrive in a competitive landscape. Some of these strategies are as follow:
- the creation of an open work permit stream for H-1B specialty occupation visa holders in the US
- the development of an Innovation Stream under to the International Mobility Program to attract highly talented individuals.
- improvements to the Start-up Visa Program
Key elements of the Tech Talent Strategy include:
- Open Work Permit Stream for H-1B Visa Holders:
- Creation of an open work permit stream for H-1B visa holders in the US, allowing them to apply for a Canadian work permit, with study and work permit options for accompanying family members.
- Innovation Stream under the International Mobility Program:
- Introduction of an Innovation Stream offering employer-specific work permits for up to five years for workers contributing to industrial innovation goals.
- Open work permits for up to five years for highly skilled workers in select in-demand occupations.
- Global Skills Strategy:
- Reversion to the 14-day service standard for work permits under the Global Skills Strategy.
- Promotion of Canada for Digital Nomads:
- Initiatives to position Canada as a desirable destination for digital nomads.
- STEM-Specific Draw under Express Entry:
- Introduction of a STEM-specific draw under category-based selection to issue additional invitations to apply under the Express Entry program.
- Start-up Visa Program Improvements:
- Increased spots for the Start-up Visa Program for 2023, with planned increases for 2024 and 2025.
- Extension of work permit duration to three years instead of one.
- Introduction of an open work permit option.
- Availability of the three-year open work permit for all members of the entrepreneurial team.
- Prioritization of applications supported by venture capital, angel investor groups, and business incubators.
This comprehensive strategy reflects Canada’s commitment to becoming a global leader in tech talent recruitment. By attracting and retaining skilled individuals, the government aims to meet current job demands and create future employment opportunities, positioning Canada as a hub for innovation and technological advancement. For detailed information on each element, refer to the provided backgrounder.
For more information follow the link below:
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/news/2023/06/minister-fraser-launches-canadas-first-ever-tech-talent-strategy-at-collision-2023.html