Canada’s Global Skills Strategy Launch
Source: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Introduction to the Global Skills Strategy
On June 12, 2017, the Government of Canada unveiled the Global Skills Strategy in Toronto. This initiative aims to streamline the process for Canadian businesses to attract exceptional talent from around the world, thereby fostering economic growth and creating middle-class jobs in Canada.
Benefits of the New Strategy
Expedited Application Processing
With the Global Skills Strategy, companies now enjoy faster application processing. High-skilled workers, their spouses, and dependants can expect two-week processing times for work permits and temporary resident visas, when needed.
Enhanced Employer Services
The strategy introduces a dedicated service channel and the Global Talent Stream to help employers access international expertise. These services facilitate the employment of temporary, highly skilled workers, enabling businesses to innovate and expand.
Key Highlights and Exemptions
Two new work permit exemptions are now available. Highly-skilled workers coming for brief assignments and researchers engaged in short-term projects no longer require work permits. This development underscores Canada’s commitment to promoting global investment and supporting the Innovation and Skills Plan.
Ministerial Insights
“Employers planning to invest in Canada often need experienced leaders or innovators with unique skills. The Global Skills Strategy ensures these employers can efficiently hire top talent from abroad.”
– The Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
“The Global Talent Stream accelerates the hiring process for global talent, helping Canadian companies grow and compete internationally. This strategy is pivotal for industry growth and job creation.”
– The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour
Quick Facts About the Strategy
- Employers benefit from priority application processing and a client-focused service for Labour Market Benefits Plan development, with a 10-business day standard.
- Two-week work permit processing applies to overseas workers employed through the Global Talent Stream or the International Mobility Program.
- Highly-skilled workers under NOC 0 and A classifications can enjoy work permit exemptions for short stays in Canada.
- Researchers can work for 120 days annually without a work permit at recognized institutions.
- Agreements with partners across Canada facilitate company referrals to dedicated service channels.
Related Resources
- Backgrounder— Global Talent Stream
- Minister Hajdu meets with industry leaders
- Launch of Canada’s Global Skills Strategy
- Goal of Growth for Canadian Jobs
Associated Links
Contact Information
For media inquiries:
Bernie Derible
Minister’s Office, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-954-1064
Media Relations
Communications Branch, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-952-1650
CIC-Media-Relations@cic.gc.ca
Matt Pascuzzo
Press Secretary, Office of the Honourable Patty Hajdu
819-654-4183
matt.pascuzzo@hrsdc-rhdcc.gc.ca
Media Relations Office
Employment and Social Development Canada
819-994-5559
media@hrsdc-rhdcc.gc.ca
Follow us on Twitter
Karl W. Sasseville
Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development
343-291-2500
Media Relations
Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada
343-291-1777
ic.mediarelations-mediasrelations.ic@canada.ca
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Global Skills Strategy?
The Global Skills Strategy is an initiative by the Government of Canada to expedite the process of bringing highly skilled international talent to Canada, supporting economic growth and job creation.
Who can benefit from the Global Talent Stream?
Canadian employers looking to hire highly skilled workers can benefit from the Global Talent Stream, which offers streamlined processing and flexible recruitment requirements.
Are there work permit exemptions available?
Yes, certain highly-skilled workers and researchers can benefit from exemptions for short-term assignments or research projects in Canada without needing a work permit.
What processing times can be expected?
Eligible applications for work permits and temporary resident visas are processed within two weeks under the Global Skills Strategy.
How does this strategy impact Canadian job creation?
By facilitating the entry of international talent, Canadian businesses can innovate and expand, leading to the creation of more middle-class jobs domestically.
Learn more about Canada’s Global Skills Strategy and how it can benefit your business.
