Canadian Immigration: Your Edge in the Global Talent Race

Businesses see Canada’s potential, too.

Some of the world’s best talent is coming to Canada. Why wouldn’t businesses want to be here, too? Besides having one of the most efficient business immigration systems in the world, Canada offers these business advantages:

• Strategic location: Canada is strategically located near the US and has trade agreements with more than 40 countries, making it an ideal location for businesses looking to expand into new markets.
• Diversification: Expanding to Canada can protect against economic uncertainty and can help businesses diversify their operations, reducing risk and increasing stability.
• Access to government funding and incentives: The Canadian government offers various funding and incentives programs to support business expansion and investment.
• Improved quality of life: Canada is known for its high standard of living, with a strong social safety net and a high quality of life for employees.

Plus, Canada works in the same time zones as the US, has a similar working culture and has daily flights departing from Canadian international airports to anywhere in the US.

Canada: The cure for H-1B headaches

As the H-1B visa program in the US has become increasingly complex and unpredictable, many companies are looking beyond their borders for a more effective way to attract and retain top global talent. By expanding to Canada, US companies can avoid the headaches of the H-1B program, while tapping into the global talent market and taking advantage of the many other location benefits.

The H-1B visa program in the US, intended to allow employers to temporarily hire global talent in specialty roles, has caused headaches for many tech companies due to its complexity and unpredictability. A strict cap on the number of visas available each year, combined with a random selection process, has resulted in decreasing acceptance rates, which poses challenges for both employers and global talent.

These challenges prompted Canada to launch its first Tech Talent Strategy in 2023 to attract skilled tech professionals from the US. The strategy included a new work permit stream that would allow H-1B visa holders in the US to apply to work in Canada with an open work permit valid for up to three years.

Spouses and dependents of approved applicants could apply for a temporary visa, too. Due to overwhelming demand, the program reached its 10,000-applicant cap within 48 hours of opening, showing Canada’s increasing appeal to skilled workers.

Canada’s Global Talent Stream is also a viable alternative for US companies struggling with H-1B challenges. It offers a pathway to attract and retain employees in Canada without the uncertainty of a lottery system.

Selecting the right program for your business needs

Businesses are flocking to Canada to take advantage of its many benefits. Luckily, Canada’s business immigration programs have been designed to make the process of moving here an easy one.

Whether you’re looking to hire new staff or relocate existing employees, Canada has a program to suit your needs. Here are just a few:

• Global Talent Stream (GTS): Canada’s premier business immigration program, the GTS provides a fast-tracked pathway for highly skilled professionals and senior leaders to work in Canada. In certain cases, an official referral from a partner organization like Waterloo EDC is required to proceed with your application.
• Intra-Company Transfer (ICT): The ICT program facilitates the transfer of international employees to Canadian offices for businesses with operations in Canada. To be eligible, transferees must be either executives, senior managers, or possess specialized knowledge. In some instances, transferees may be exempt from Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) requirements, potentially accelerating the transfer process.
• Start-up Visa Program (SUV): Tailored for entrepreneurs aiming to launch their businesses in Canada, the SUV provides a route to permanent residency for qualifying immigrant entrepreneurs. Participants gain access to a network of private-sector investors, including angel investors, venture capital funds and business incubators, to help establish their start-ups in Canada.

Regardless of the path you choose, Waterloo EDC is here to help. We provide guidance on selecting the best program for your needs, we offer official referrals and we can connect you with leading immigration experts to navigate eligibility requirements, paperwork and more.

Download our immigration decision tree to help guide your journey.

5 actionable strategies for a smooth immigration process

Navigating business immigration can be complex, but with proactive strategies and expert guidance, the process can be both smooth and successful. If immigration is part of your expansion strategy, here are five steps you can take to stay ahead.

1. Develop a clear business expansion plan

Outline your long-term goals in a detailed business plan. This should include your investment strategy, resources needed, the number of people you plan to relocate and your strategy for hiring locally in Canada. Use this plan as a roadmap for your expansion efforts.

2. Know the latest policies and programs

Regularly review and understand the latest Canadian immigration policies and programs. Compare these with the challenges faced in your current location, such as the US, and strategize how relocating to Canada could provide solutions. Adjust your immigration strategy accordingly.

3. Balance relocation with local hiring

While relocating key team members is crucial, also plan to hire locally to benefit from Canada’s diverse talent pool. This balance will aid in both internal company growth and community integration. Develop a hiring plan that complements your team’s existing strengths with local expertise.

4. Tap into local resources and expertise

Engage with local agencies like Waterloo EDC for insights into the Canadian business market. Leverage their free, confidential services to navigate the market, regulatory environment and cultural nuances. Establishing partnerships or advisory relationships like this can ease your transition.

5. Collaborate with immigration experts

Establish a strong, ongoing dialogue with immigration and legal experts. Regular updates and consultations will help in anticipating challenges and crafting a well-rounded immigration strategy. Treat this as a collaborative effort, where your team and experts work in tandem.

Immigration isn’t a solo mission

Expanding your business into a new country is a big step, one that you don’t need to take alone. Partnering with experts and agencies who specialize in Canadian immigration can make a world of difference, ensuring a smooth and streamlined process from start to finish.

Immigration lawyers provide essential guidance to navigate the complexities of Canadian immigration laws and policies. They offer confidential, personalized support, ensuring a thorough understanding of each step in the immigration process.

Economic development agencies like Waterloo EDC help streamline company expansions into Canada. They assist with accessing programs like the Global Talent Stream for fast employee relocation and provide a host of other services to help companies expand with ease.