Canada Unveils New Work Permit Program for U.S. H-1B Visa Holders, Focusing on Tech Talent Attraction

Canada’s Immigration Minister, Sean Fraser, revealed a series of additional measures aimed at attracting a greater number of global tech professionals to the country. These measures are part of what Fraser and Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) are proudly referring to as Canada’s inaugural Tech Talent Strategy.

Introducing a 3-Year Open Work Permit for H-1B Visa Holders

To enhance labor mobility across North America, IRCC will establish a streamlined work permit specifically designed for H-1B specialty occupation visa holders in the United States who wish to pursue opportunities in Canada. Presently, many individuals working in high-tech fields are employed by companies with operations in both Canada and the United States, and those working in the U.S. often possess an H-1B specialty occupation visa.

Commencing July 16th, 2023, H-1B visa holders in the U.S. and their immediate family members will be eligible to apply for Canadian immigration. Upon approval, successful applicants will be granted an open work permit valid for up to three years, allowing them to seek employment with almost any Canadian employer. Additionally, their spouses and dependents may also be eligible to apply for a temporary resident visa.

IRCC believes that this initiative will expand the range of opportunities available to skilled workers, enabling them to pursue thriving careers within the high-tech sector while contributing to the overall economic growth of North America. This measure will remain in effect for one year or until IRCC has received 10,000 applications.