Certain skilled workers can expect their Canadian work permit applications (and Canada visa applications, where applicable) to be processed within two weeks—compared with the current wait times of up to five or more months—under the Global Talent Stream (GTS) program which was started on June 12, 2017. The streamlined immigration option benefits high-growth companies needing unique foreign talent in order to scale-up and companies needing highly skilled foreign talent in occupations on a new Skills Shortage List. Another key element of Canada’s new Global Skills Strategy is faster processing for short-term (30 days or less in a 12-month period) highly skilled, low-risk workers. 

Eligible employers benefit from expedited processing times for certain LMIA-exempt work permits as well as a new LMIA program with quicker processing times. 

There are two categories under the GTS. 

Category A: High-growth companies with a demonstrated need for the in-demand talent of foreign nationals in order to generate growth; and, 

Category B: Companies requiring high-skilled foreign nationals for occupations on the Skills Shortage List. 

Companies in any sector may be eligible for Category A, but must first be recommended to the GTS by a designated partner, and need to be identified as high-growth. Further requirements for Category A in place, include the need to prove that the company is hiring unique and specialized talent. Future employees with advanced knowledge of the industry, advanced relevant qualifications, and/or a minimum of five years’ specialized experience may be eligible. In addition, the position must be highly paid, usually at $80,000 CAD per year or higher. 

Companies who can demonstrate a need for global talent to fill high-skilled occupations on the Global Talent occupations list, and are willing to pay the employee the prevailing wage or higher, fall into Category B.