STEM Professionals: Canada offers diverse immigration routes.
Canada has always been a popular place for people from other countries to work in the STEM field (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). With its robust economy and commitment to innovation, Canada offers a variety of permanent residence and work permit pathways for global STEM talent. In recent times, Canada has further expanded its initiatives to attract and retain STEM professionals, bolstering its economic growth and global competitiveness. This comprehensive guide provides an overview of the prominent immigration and work permit routes available for STEM professionals seeking opportunities in Canada.
Express Entry: The Premier Pathway for Permanent Residence
Express Entry is the primary channel through which Canada's federal government welcomes skilled immigrants. Express Entry is designed to simplify the application process for permanent residence. It caters to individuals with exceptional abilities and qualifications that are highly sought after in the Canadian labour market. Recent announcements have introduced category-based selection draws, allowing Express Entry candidates with strong French language proficiency or work experience in specific fields to receive priority. Notably, STEM professionals fall within the favored categories, highlighting the significance of their skill sets. The introduction of STEM category-based draws signifies Canada's commitment to meeting labor market gaps and advancing its economic objectives. In the Express Entry pool, candidates are ranked using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which takes into account factors like age, educational background, language skills, work experience and more. Meeting Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)’s category-based draw criteria increases your chances of being invited to apply for an Express Entry permanent residence.
Global Talent Stream Work Permits: Streamlining the IT Sector
The Global Talent Stream (GTS) serves as a facilitated work permit option tailored to foreign nationals employed in the IT sector. With a focus on highly skilled tech talent, the GTS aims to expedite the processing of work permit applications. The program consists of two categories: Category A and Category B.
Category A caters to high-growth companies requiring unique specialized talent from abroad, with referral by a designated partner as a prerequisite for employers in this category.
Category B, however, is for employers looking to recruit high-skilled workers in the jobs listed on the Global Talent Occupational List. Many of these occupations fall within the STEM fields, making STEM professionals eligible for Category B under the GTS. It is important to note that the GTS is also available in Quebec, offering further opportunities for STEM professionals to contribute to the province's flourishing industries.
Quebec’s Facilitated Processing Stream Work Permits: Targeted Opportunities
Quebec's Facilitated Processing Stream enables employers in the province to hire temporary foreign workers for specific occupations. This stream offers a streamlined process that exempts employers from certain requirements typically associated with the Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) process, such as advertising the position extensively. Employers must demonstrate that foreign workers meet the educational and experience requirements outlined by the National Occupational Classification (NOC). In addition, the hourly wage of temporary foreign workers must be consistent with the hourly wage of Canadians and permanent residents within the same occupation and geographical area. The facilitated process in Quebec also introduces a transition plan requirement for subsequent LMIA applications within the same occupation and location. Quebec's facilitated occupations list encompasses various categories eligible for the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), including many STEM professions, offering STEM professionals excellent prospects within the province.
New H1-B Open Work Permit Program: Expanding Opportunities
Canada's H1-B open work permit program, launched on July 16th, 2023, aims to create additional opportunities for skilled workers, particularly H1-B specialty occupation visa holders in the United States. Eligible applicants will be granted a streamlined work permit, allowing them to work for nearly any employer across Canada for up to three years. This initiative seeks to support skilled workers in the high-tech sector while fostering economic growth in North America. Spouses and dependents of approved applicants will also be eligible to apply for temporary resident visas, with work or study permits as required. The program will run for one year, or until 10,000 applications are received by IRCC, and only the principal applicants will be counted towards the cap.
Pelican Migration Consultants: Your Trusted Immigration Partner
Pelican Migration Consultants is one of the leading immigration consultants in Dubai dedicated to providing top-notch services to STEM professionals and individuals seeking immigration opportunities in Canada. With a team of expert consultants well-versed in the intricacies of Canadian immigration, Pelican Migration Consultants offers personalized guidance throughout the immigration process. Whether you require assistance with Express Entry applications, work permits, or understanding the latest immigration programs, our team is committed to helping you achieve your goals. Trust Pelican Migration Consultants as your partner in navigating the complex world of Canadian immigration. Contact us today to take the first step toward a successful career in Canada's dynamic STEM sector.
