Global Talent Stream (GTS)

Operated under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), the Global Talent Stream (GTS) is a comprehensive collection of streams created to address particular labor shortages in Canada. Through expedited processing or LMIA-exempt work permits, this simplified program enables highly skilled professionals to contribute to Canada’s economic growth. Prioritizing foreign workers with advanced expertise, the Global Talent Stream focuses on specialized occupations, especially in engineering and tech-related fields.

Since its June 2017 introduction, the GTS has grown to be a crucial component of Canada’s immigration policy. The program, which is jointly run by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) and Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), has facilitated the arrival of tens of thousands of highly qualified foreign workers. In light of Canada’s increasing need for specialized talent, the GTS is anticipated to continue as a key component in attracting elite professionals from across the globe.

Why does Canada need the Global Talent Stream?

• Address the lack of workers: Employers in Canada benefit from the GTS, particularly in rapidly expanding sectors like information technology (IT) and technology.
• Remain competitive: To stay competitive in the global marketplace, Canadian businesses rely on the GTS to help them hire specialized talent from around the globe.
• Diversify the workforce: Canada’s workforce is diversified, and its industries are strengthened thanks to the GTS.
• Encourage economic expansion: The GTS promotes economic growth and keeps Canada at the forefront of innovation.

How does the GTS work for Employers?

A Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a requirement for most immigration streams under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). An LMIA assesses whether a Canadian employer can hire a foreign worker by determining if a Canadian worker can fill the job vacancy. If a positive LMIA verifies no qualified Canadian talent is available, the employer can proceed with hiring a foreign applicant. However, the preparation, submission, and approval of an LMIA application typically take months.

The Global Talent Stream simplifies this procedure by guaranteeing quicker LMIA processing times. This enables Canadian employers to meet their labor needs with qualified foreign workers quickly and maintain their competitiveness in the global market.

Category A: A Designated Partner Referral

Category A targets innovative Canadian employers seeking exceptional, highly specialized talent to spur growth and innovation. Employers in this category must demonstrate a clear need for specialized skills and be referred by one of Employment and Social Development Canada’s (ESDC) designated partners.

Eligibility Criteria for Employers in Category A

• Active Activities in Canada: The business must be actively operating in Canada.
• Emphasis on Innovation: Companies must show a firm commitment to industry innovation.
• Growth-Oriented: Businesses should be prepared to expand or scale up operations.
• Specialized Roles: Employers must seek to fill highly specialized and unique roles.

Category B: In-Demand Occupations

Category B focuses on Canadian employers hiring foreign workers for positions listed in the Global Talent Occupations List. These in-demand roles span IT, engineering, and other technical fields.

Some Occupations Under Category B

• Software Engineers
• Cybersecurity Specialists
• Data Scientists
• Web Developers
• Aerospace Engineers
• Mining Engineers
• Electrical and Electronic Engineers
• Statisticians and Mathematicians

How Does the Global Talent Stream Work for Foreign Workers?

Foreign workers cannot apply directly to the Global Talent Stream. Instead, Canadian employers must initiate the application process and list the foreign worker(s) they intend to hire. The process involves:

1. Employer’s Application: Submitting an application with the worker’s details and the role.
2. Positive LMIA: Employers secure a positive LMIA.
3. Work Permit Application: The foreign worker applies for a Canadian work permit, with processing typically completed within 10 business days.

Wage Requirements for the Global Talent Stream

Employers must meet strict wage standards, paying the higher of:

• The median wage for the job title in the National Occupational Classification (NOC).
• The employer’s standard wage for similar roles.
• For Category A roles: A minimum of CAD 80,000 per year for the first two positions; CAD 150,000 for additional roles.

Labour Market Benefits Plan

Employers must collaborate with ESDC to develop a Labour Market Benefits Plan, demonstrating how hiring foreign workers benefits Canada’s labor market.

Required Benefits by Type

• Category A Employers: Must commit to creating jobs for Canadian citizens and permanent residents.
• Category B Employers: Must invest in education and training for Canadians.

How CWC Can Help?

Helping employers and skilled workers navigate the Global Talent Stream (GTS) application process is our area of expertise. We assist Canadian companies in determining eligibility for GTS Categories A and B, and provide clarity for foreign workers about job categories and eligibility requirements. Contact us today for a FREE assessment!