On June 27, 2023, at Collision 2023, Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, introduced Canada’s Tech Talent Strategy. This groundbreaking strategy encompasses a range of fresh initiatives and enhancements to existing ones, aimed at fostering the success of businesses. Minister Fraser unveiled a series of attraction measures as an integral component of Canada’s pioneering Tech Talent Strategy.
This strategy aims to enhance the competitiveness of Canadian businesses by attracting highly skilled professionals in high-demand fields and positioning Canada as an appealing destination for digital nomads. As a matter of fact, key components of the strategy include the establishment of an open work permit category for H-1B visa holders, expansion of the Innovation Stream within the International Mobility Program, enhancements to the Start-up Visa Program, and an increase in available spots for applicants. The government will prioritize applications supported by venture capital, angel investor groups, and business incubators. In other words, the overarching objective is to draw in the necessary expertise and entrepreneurial talent to drive future job creation.
Measures Announced by Minister Fraser
Here is a list of some significant measures Minister Fraser announced at Collision 2023:
- The introduction of a new work permit pathway for H-1B visa holders, allowing them to apply for a Canadian work permit, as well as study and work permit opportunities for their accompanying family members
- The development of an Innovation Stream within the International Mobility Program with the aim of attracting exceptionally skilled individuals
- reinstating the 14-day processing time commitment for work permits within the Global Skills Strategy
- establishing a dedicated selection category within the Express Entry program to conduct specific draws for individuals with STEM backgrounds, enabling the issuance of additional invitations to apply
- improvements to the SUV Program (Start-up Visa)
The Innovation Stream is set to be launched by the end of this year, incorporating options that have been developed based on the feedback received from stakeholders during a series of consultations conducted in recent months.
To summarize, the Government of Canada is actively embracing Canada’s evolving position as a frontrunner in global tech talent recruitment and attraction. As a matter of fact, their aim is to not only address the immediate demand for skilled jobs but also to attract the expertise and entrepreneurial talent necessary for creating future job opportunities.
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