Canada Just Announced Their New Tech Talent Strategy

The Canadian government is getting serious about attracting overseas talent! They want to make sure Canada is not only filling the high-demand tech jobs of today but also creating opportunities for the jobs of tomorrow. You can find the full Tech Talent Strategy announcement here.

So here are the new immigration programs they're launching by the end of 2023:

Innovation Stream: They're launching a new program called the Innovation Stream. It's all about bringing in super talented folks who can help drive innovation in Canada's tech industry. They're considering two options: giving work permits for up to five years to people working for companies that contribute to Canada's innovation goals, or offering open work permits for up to five years to highly skilled workers in sought-after occupations.

Digital Nomads: Canada wants to be the hotspot for digital nomads—those cool folks who can work remotely from anywhere. Right now, digital nomads can come to Canada as visitors for up to six months while they work for a foreign employer. But the government is looking into more ways to attract them, and if they decide to stick around and work for Canadian companies, they can apply for work permits or even permanent residency.

Making it Easy for H-1B Visa Holders: Thousands of tech workers with H-1B visas in the US also work for Canadian companies. To make it easier for them, Canada is creating a streamlined work permit process. Starting from July 16, 2023, H-1B visa holders and their families can apply to work in Canada. If approved, they'll get an open work permit for up to three years, which means they can work for any employer in Canada. It's all about improving opportunities and boosting the high-tech sector in North America.

Improving Existing Programs: Canada is also making its existing programs better for tech workers. They're ramping up the Global Skills Strategy, which helps Canadian employers quickly bring in top talent from around the world. The Start-up Visa Program is also getting a boost, with more spots available and changes to reduce wait times. Plus, they're giving Start-up Visa applicants open work permits for up to three years, making it easier for them to work and build their businesses while waiting for permanent residency.

These changes are all about making Canada an awesome place for techies to live, work, and thrive. The government wants to stay competitive in the tech industry and ensure a bright future for tech jobs and innovation in the country.