All About Canada’s Tech Talent Strategy Open Work Permit

Immigration Minister Sean Fraser stated the aim of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada to develop Canada’s first-ever Tech Talent Strategy in order to attract and retain highly qualified workers in the technology industry.

Among the proposed provisions is a new Canadian open work permit for some H1-B specialized occupation visa holders, allowing successful candidates to work in Canada for up to three years for nearly any company, anywhere in Canada.

Who qualifies for the Tech Talent Strategy 3-year open work permit?

This program is designed to attract highly skilled applicants who hold a USA H1-B specialty occupation visa. The exact qualifying criteria is yet to be released.

How do I apply for the Tech Talent Strategy 3-year open work permit?

IRCC has yet to announce any specifics about this program however it is likely that applicants will need to use the IRCC secure account to submit applications.

What documents do I need to apply for the Tech Talent Strategy 3-year open work permit?

Applicants should be prepared to provide the following documents as part of their application:

• Completed application forms;
• Copy of H1B specialty occupation visa;
• Copy of passport and civil status documents;
• Evidence of your work history in the from of a CV/ Resume/ reference;
• Digital photo.

There may be additional documentation needed based on the requirements of the program.

How much does the Tech Talent Strategy 3-year open work permit cost?

Like all open work permit application, the applicant will need to pay processing fees of $255CAD. Applicants may also need to pay the biometrics fee of $85CAD.

Do I need a job offer to get the Tech Talent Strategy 3-year open work permit?

Because this is an application for an open work visa, you do not need to have a job offer from a Canadian employer to apply. With a few exceptions, successful applicants will receive an open work permit, allowing them to work for any employer in any occupation across Canada.

How long will the Tech Talent Strategy 3-year open work permit be valid?

This program grants 3-year open work permits. Like all Canadian permits, the open work permit will be valid until your passport expires if it expires before three years.

You will receive a 6-month open work permit if your passport is valid.

Before applying, make sure your passport is valid for at least 4 years.

Can my spouse and dependent children also get work or study permit?

This new initiative also allows for eligible spouses or common-law partners, as well as dependent children, to apply for a study or work permit to come to Canada for the duration of your open work permit.

How long will it take to process the Tech Talent Strategy 3-year open work permit application

Current processing times for work permit applicants in the USA is 5 weeks. It is unclear whether IRCC will prioritize the processing of the Tech Talent Strategy 3-year open work permit.

What options do I have to apply for Canadian permanent residence?

In addition to the open work permit initiative, the Canadian government has announced the creation of STEM-specific draws under the Express Entry system, so applicants who gain work experience in Canada under the Tech Talent Strategy 3-year open work permit will likely fare well in the express entry system.

Is there a quota on the number of people that can apply for the Tech Talent Strategy 3-year open work permit?

Yes, IRCC anticipates receiving only 10,000 applications under this program.

How long will this program be available?

In the announcement, IRCC stated that this initiative will be open for one year or until 10,000 applications are received.

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