Global Talent Stream: Speed Up Your Hiring of International Tech Professionals

The Global Talent Stream (GTS) is a cornerstone of Canada’s Global Skills Strategy, designed to help Canadian businesses quickly and efficiently hire top international tech talent. As part of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program, GTS offers expedited processing for work permits and temporary resident visas, with turnaround times as fast as two weeks.

Understanding the Global Talent Stream Categories

Category A: This category is ideal for innovative, high-growth companies seeking specialized skills that are hard to find in Canada. To qualify, employers need a referral from one of the designated partner organizations.

Designated Referral Partners (Outside Quebec):

  • Accelerate Okanagan

  • BC Tech Association

  • Business Development Bank of Canada

  • Communitech Corporation

  • Innovate Calgary

  • Toronto Global

  • Plus several others.

For Quebec-based employers, they are recommended to contact the Ministry of Immigration, Francisation, and Integration for the appropriate guidance.

Category B: This category is focused on employers from the Global Talent Occupations List. These roles are identified as being in high demand and difficult to fill with local talent and skills.

In-Demand Roles Include:

  • Computer and Information Systems Managers

  • Civil Engineers

  • Electrical and Electronics Engineers

  • Aerospace Engineers

  • Software Engineers and Designers

  • Data Scientists

  • Cybersecurity Experts

  • And other key positions.

Competitive Salary Requirements

Employers participating in the GTS must meet specific salary benchmarks:

  • Category A: A minimum annual salary of $80,000 for the first two positions or the prevailing wage, whichever is higher. For additional hires, the salary should be at least $150,000 or the prevailing wage.

  • Category B: The salary must meet or exceed the wage specified for the role on the Global Talent Occupations List or the prevailing wage.

Crafting a Labour Market Benefits Plan

To take part in the GTS, employers are required to work with Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) to create a Labour Market Benefits Plan. This plan must illustrate how hiring international talent will benefit the Canadian workforce through:

  • Category A: Creating new employment opportunities for Canadian citizens and permanent residents.

  • Category B: Increasing investments in the training and skills development of Canadian workers.

Both categories also require employers to commit to additional benefits, such as job creation or enhancing employee training programs.

Work Permit Exemptions

Some highly skilled professionals and researchers may qualify to work in Canada without a permit:

  • Highly Skilled Workers (NOC 0 or A) can work without a permit for up to 15 days within a six-month period or 30 days within a twelve-month period.

  • Researchers at publicly funded institutions may work without a permit for up to 120 days within a twelve-month period.

Partner with CWC Immigration Solutions

If you're looking to hire international tech talent, CWC Immigration Solutions is ready to assist. Our team of experts specializes in navigating the complexities of Canadian immigration to ensure a smooth and successful hiring process. Get started by filling out our consultation form with your contact details and a brief description of your needs.

About CWC Immigration Solutions

CWC Immigration Solutions is dedicated to helping businesses and individuals successfully navigate Canada’s immigration system. Contact us today to learn how we can support your talent acquisition goals.