Canada’s Inaugural Tech Talent Strategy Unveiled at Collision 2023
From: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Introduction to the Tech Talent Strategy
Canada is gearing up to lead in high-growth industries, necessitating access to exceptional talent to drive innovation and support emerging technologies. At Collision 2023, Minister Sean Fraser revealed Canada’s first Tech Talent Strategy. This strategic initiative aims to foster business success through innovative measures in a competitive global environment.
Key Initiatives Announced
The strategy introduces several aggressive measures to attract top talent:
- Open work permit stream for H-1B visa holders in the US, including permits for their families.
- Innovation Stream under the International Mobility Program, offering:
- Employer-specific permits for five years for workers linked to Canada’s innovation goals.
- Open permits for five years for skilled workers in high-demand fields.
- Reinstatement of the 14-day service standard for work permits under Global Skills Strategy.
- Promotion of Canada as a hub for digital nomads.
- STEM-specific draws under Express Entry for additional applications.
- Enhancements to the Start-up Visa Program, including increased spots and work permits up to three years.
These steps underscore Canada’s commitment to being a global leader in tech talent recruitment, ensuring immediate and future job growth.
Minister’s Insights
“Our ambitious immigration goals are strategic, focusing on newcomers who can position Canada as a leader in emerging technologies. The collaboration with tech and business communities has been invaluable in shaping this strategy. We aim for a fast, flexible approach supported by Canadians, which is a hallmark of our immigration advantage.”
– The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
Highlights and Facts
- The Innovation Stream will launch later this year, shaped by stakeholder feedback.
- The H1-B visa holder work permit becomes available on July 16, 2023, offering a three-year open permit.
- The Global Skills Strategy, active since 2017, continues to enable quick access to skilled talent globally.
- Startup Visa Program modifications will roll out this year, including prioritization of certain applications.
- In 2021, Canada’s ICT sector employed 720,000 Canadians and contributed significantly to R&D spending and GDP growth.
- Canadian cities are recognized for tech talent growth, with high rankings in North American markets.
- A 2023 OECD report ranked Canada as the top destination for immigrant entrepreneurs based on various economic factors.
Related Information
- Backgrounder: Tech Talent Strategy
- Canada.ca/tech-talent-immigration
- Global Skills Strategy
- Start-up Visa Program
Contact Information
Bahoz Dara Aziz
Press Secretary
Minister’s Office
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Bahoz.DaraAziz@cic.gc.ca
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-952-1650
media@cic.gc.ca
FAQ
What is Canada’s Tech Talent Strategy?
It is a comprehensive plan to attract and retain top tech talent in Canada, focusing on innovation and economic growth.
Who can benefit from the H1-B visa holder work permit?
H1-B visa holders in the US and their families can apply for an open work permit, allowing them to work in Canada.
When will the Innovation Stream be available?
The Innovation Stream, informed by stakeholder feedback, is set to launch by the end of the year.
What improvements are being made to the Start-up Visa Program?
Enhancements include more spots, longer work permits, and prioritization of certain applications.
How does Canada rank globally in tech talent?
Canada is recognized as a top destination for tech talent and immigrant entrepreneurs, with high rankings in North American markets.
