Employee retention is a growing concern for US companies, especially with unpredictable visa limitations and shifting immigration policies.
To keep their top talent, many businesses are expanding into Canada, where immigration programs like the Global Talent Stream (GTS) and Inter-Company Transfer (ICT) offer faster, more predictable solutions.
For these companies, establishing Canadian subsidiaries has become a smart strategy for retaining employees and ensuring operational continuity. Among the top destinations for these expansions is Waterloo, a region known for its vibrant innovation ecosystem and steady stream of talent.
Canada’s immigration programs provide a competitive advantage, helping businesses address workforce challenges while minimizing delays. Here’s how US companies are leveraging Canada – and specifically Waterloo – to stay ahead in the race for talent.
Why Canada?
Canada’s immigration programs provide businesses with access to a global talent pool, helping them overcome barriers like visa limits and workforce retention issues. For US companies, these programs offer efficient and predictable alternatives:
- Global Talent Stream (GTS)
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- Provides a fast-tracked route to hiring highly skilled workers, with work permits processed in as little as two weeks.
- Ideal for roles in high-demand fields like STEM and technology.
2. Inter-Company Transfer (ICT)
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- Facilitates the transfer of executives, senior managers or employees with specialized knowledge to Canadian branches.
- Often exempt from Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) requirements, streamlining the process.
By creating Canadian subsidiaries, companies can secure top talent and avoid losing employees to competitors in other markets.
Why Waterloo?
Located in the Toronto-Waterloo Corridor, Waterloo is an increasingly attractive destination for businesses expanding into Canada. Here’s why:
- Leading tech ecosystem: Home to leading research institutions and innovative companies.
- Incentives to grow: Programs like the Scientific Research and Experimental Development (SR&ED) tax credit reduce operational costs.
- Proximity to US markets: A convenient location for cross-border operations.
Companies like Odyssey Interactive have successfully navigated the immigration process in Waterloo. After facing delays with the H-1B visa program, Odyssey used the GTS to relocate their team, getting operations up and running within weeks.
" The contrast was stark… Where the US system brought delays, Canada's efficient process had us up and running in record time. "
Richard Henkel
CEO of Odyssey Interactive
A strategic choice for US companies
Expanding to Waterloo gives US companies a way to future-proof their workforce strategies. By leveraging Canada’s immigration pathways and Waterloo’s thriving tech ecosystem, businesses can attract and retain the talent they need to succeed.
Learn more about how Waterloo EDC helps companies navigate the immigration process.