October 9, 2025
Are you a tech professional affected by the recent changes to the U.S. H-1B visa program? Now is the perfect time to look north — Canada is actively welcoming skilled workers from the tech and STEM sectors with open arms.
Following a recent executive order by U.S. President Donald Trump that introduced a $100,000 fee for new H-1B applications, many international professionals are reconsidering their future in the United States. Canada sees this as a major opportunity to attract displaced global talent — and it has the immigration programs ready to make the move seamless.
Canada Responds: Targeting Displaced H-1B Tech Workers
At the 2025 Global Progress Action Summit in the UK, Prime Minister Mark Carney reaffirmed Canada’s vision of becoming the world’s top destination for displaced tech talent.
“These are people with lots of skills, enterprising, and willing to move to work. It’s an opportunity for Canada, and we are going to have a clear offering on that,” Carney stated.
This approach is part of a broader strategy to retain Canadian and international AI, research, and tech professionals who have traditionally migrated to the U.S. — but are now facing restrictive immigration and employment barriers.
Canada’s Tech Immigration Strategy: Speed, Flexibility, and Pathways to PR
Canada’s immigration system is designed with tech talent in mind — offering fast-track processing, flexible work permits, and clear routes to permanent residency.
1. Global Talent Stream (GTS) – Work Permits in as Little as 2 Weeks
The Global Talent Stream, part of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), allows Canadian employers to hire foreign tech professionals quickly and efficiently.
Eligible occupations include:
- Software Engineers
- Data Scientists
- Web Developers
- Systems Analysts
- Cybersecurity Specialists
The process requires a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), but it’s fast-tracked and highly streamlined.
2. Innovation Stream – LMIA-Exempt Work Permits
Launched in September 2024, the Innovation Stream is part of Canada’s Tech Talent Strategy, offering LMIA-exempt work permits under the International Mobility Program (IMP).
To qualify, applicants must have a job offer from one of the eight high-growth tech companies under the Global Hypergrowth Project.
3. H-1B Open Work Permit Stream (Now Closed, But Insightful)
In July 2023, Canada introduced a one-time open work permit for U.S.-based H-1B holders. The program accepted 10,000 applications in a single day, reflecting massive demand from tech professionals seeking alternatives.
Though the stream has now closed, it clearly shows Canada’s readiness to welcome skilled foreign workers.
4. Intra-Company Transfers (ICT) – Move from the U.S. to Canada
If you’re employed by a multinational firm with offices in both the U.S. and Canada, you may qualify for an Intra-Company Transfer work permit.
Best for:
- Executives
- Senior Managers
- Specialized Knowledge Workers
This pathway does not require an LMIA and can lead directly to permanent residence.
Fast-Track Pathways to Canadian Permanent Residency (PR)
Express Entry System
Tech professionals can become permanent residents through Express Entry, if they qualify under one of the following:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
STEM Category-Based Selection
Canada has been conducting category-based Express Entry draws since 2023, prioritizing STEM occupations and offering lower CRS cut-offs.
STEM Occupations Include:
- IT and Software Engineering
- Data Analytics and AI
- Civil, Electrical, and Mechanical Engineering
- Cybersecurity and Robotics
Last STEM Draw: April 11, 2024
Next Expected Draws: 2025, as Canada’s tech sector continues rapid growth.
Why Tech Workers Are Choosing Canada Over the U.S.
Canada is emerging as the global destination for top tech professionals. Here’s why:
- Fast and transparent work permit processing
- Clear PR and citizenship pathways
- Thriving tech ecosystems in Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal
- Booming job markets in AI, fintech, and clean tech
- Inclusive society with strong immigrant support
- Free healthcare and high quality of life
Planning to Move to Canada? Let MyWorld Immigration Guide You
Whether you’re:
- A current H-1B holder seeking alternatives
- A tech professional with a Canadian job offer
- Or a skilled worker exploring Express Entry or PNP pathways
MyWorld Immigration is here to guide you every step of the way. Our RCIC-certified immigration consultants specialize in helping tech professionals transition from temporary work permits to permanent residency — quickly and confidently.
Book a Free Work Permit Consultation
Don’t wait to make your move. Take advantage of Canada’s growing demand for global tech talent today.
Get in Touch with MyWorld Immigration:
WhatsApp: +1-672-399-0000
Website: www.myworldimmigration.com
Email: info@myworldimmigration.com
Instagram: @myworldimmigration