The Global Talent Stream, often referred to as the Global Skills Visa, represents a pivotal advancement in Canada’s immigration strategy. Established by the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), this innovative program is designed to expedite the entry of highly-skilled foreign nationals into Canada. Its core mission is to assist Canadian employers in attracting and retaining top-tier talent, thereby fostering innovation and driving economic growth.
Central to the Global Talent Stream is its commitment to swift processing of Work Permit applications. The IRCC has set an ambitious target of processing 80% of applications within a targeted two-week timeframe from the date of submission. This rapid processing timeline enables employers to swiftly onboard skilled professionals, significantly reducing the time and effort associated with hiring international talent.
Beyond expedited processing, the Global Talent Stream offers tailored exemptions and considerations for highly-skilled workers. Individuals embarking on short-term work assignments or engaging in brief research projects in Canada may be eligible for Work Permit exemptions. These exemptions are designed to simplify the process for individuals whose work in Canada is temporary and project-specific, ensuring a smooth and efficient entry process.
Additionally, the Global Talent Stream provides a dedicated service channel for companies making substantial investments in Canada that result in job creation. This specialized support ensures that these companies can access the high-skilled talent they need to fuel their growth and expansion initiatives. By offering streamlined processes and specialized support, the Global Talent Stream positions Canada as an attractive destination for top-tier talent from around the world.
To qualify for Category A of the Global Talent Stream (GTS), you must receive a referral from one of the stream’s designated partners. This category applies if you are hiring an individual with unique and specialized talents to help your business scale up and grow.
If the position you seek to fill is on the global talent occupations list, your application will be processed as a Category B application and must meet the specific Category B requirements.
Alternatively, you may be eligible for Category B of the GTS if you want to hire highly skilled temporary foreign workers (TFWs) to fill positions in in-demand occupations listed on the global talent occupations list. No referral is required for Category B eligibility.
As an employer applying through the GTS, you must comply with the program requirements. This includes upholding the conditions and rules set out in the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act regarding hiring a TFW.
The Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) verifies and ensures employer compliance with these requirements.
Employers failing to comply will face consequences for non-compliance.
A processing fee of $1,000 is required for each position requested as part of your Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) application. This fee covers the cost of processing your application.
In Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker Program, strict language requirements apply to job positions. Employers can only specify English or French as job requirements in their applications and advertisements. If another language is essential for the job, a detailed justification must be provided.
In cases where no language requirement exists for a position, employers must explain how the Temporary Foreign Worker (TFW) will perform job duties effectively and safely without language proficiency. They must also outline the reasonable measures in place to ensure health and safety at the workplace.
These measures may include providing translated workplace safety manuals, offering safety training in the TFW’s language, using international safety signs, having on-site translators, or employing supervisors who speak the TFW’s language.
All these measures must be documented and submitted with the application.
Certain workers are exempt from needing a work permit under the Global Talent Stream. Highly skilled workers in skill type 0 or skill level A occupations of the National Occupational Classification (NOC) can work in Canada for up to 15 days in a six-month period or 30 days in a 12-month period without a work permit. Similarly, researchers working on projects at publicly-funded degree-granting or affiliated research institutions can stay in Canada for up to 120 days in a 12-month period without needing a work permit.
Scope Immigration specializes in navigating the complexities of Canadian immigration law, including the Global Talent Stream (GTS). Our experienced team understands the unique challenges faced by employers and individuals seeking to work in Canada.
We provide personalized guidance and support throughout the entire application process, ensuring that all requirements are met and applications are submitted correctly and on time.
Our services include assessing eligibility for the GTS, assisting with the application process, and providing ongoing support and advice. We work closely with our clients to understand their specific needs and goals, and tailor our services to meet those needs effectively.
With Scope Immigration, you can trust that your GTS application is in good hands.
Ready to explore your options for working in Canada under the Global Talent Stream? Contact Scope Immigration today for a consultation. Our team of immigration experts is here to answer your questions, assess your eligibility, and guide you through the application process.
Reach out to us via phone, email, or through our website to schedule your consultation and take the first step towards your Canadian work permit.