Canada is known as an attractive study destination for international students. Many of these students in fact enjoy Canada so much, they aim to apply for permanent residency and a work visa once their education is complete. In fact, in 2017, the Government of Canada introduced the Global Skills Visa to make many of these dreams a reality.
Here’s what you need to know about the Global Skills Visa program, and how to apply.
Please note: for official visa information and guidance, please refer to the Government of Canada website, or speak to a registered Canadian immigration consultant (RCIC).
What is the Global Skills Visa?
The Global Skills Visa assists employers in innovative firms to attract top talent and new skills to Canada. It further streamlines applications and fast tracks approvals. Companies using the work visa increase their international competitiveness through global recruitment.
Not only does the Global Skills Visa benefit employers by giving them access to temporary, high-skilled, international talent for company growth, it also benefits foreign workers who experience a reduced process (two weeks) to obtain work permits. Open work permits and study permits are also available and processed in approximately two weeks for spouses and dependents.
Global Skills Visa Survey Results
Companies are hiring more international candidates since the launch of the new Canadian work visa in 2017. A survey conducted by MaRS Discovery District shows 55 Toronto-based tech companies have experienced an increase in both foreign applicants and hires in the last year.
While some companies saw a surge of 50-100 percent in foreign applicants, others saw as much as 300 percent over a single year. Many businesses claim Canada’s Global Skills Visa as a primary reason for the increase. Though not all make use of the strategy, 35 percent of the 55 companies surveyed report having used the visa for hiring purposes. Toronto-based companies also report recruiting largely from countries including the United States, India, China, Brazil and the United Kingdom. Junior and mid-level engineers from California’s Silicon Valley have also shown great interest in a temporary work visa.
Canada is a country that embraces diversity and multiculturalism. The country’s brand and reputation draws in many foreigners, positioning Canada as a key competitor in many industries.
Am I Eligible?
Canada’s Global Skills Visa has two categories. To be eligible, you must meet the criteria of one of the categories below.
Category A: Highly-skilled individuals with specialized talent and individuals who are referred by one of the Global Talent Stream’s Designated Partners.
Category B: Highly-skilled individuals looking to fill open positions found on the Global Talent Occupations List, or employers seeking talent to scale their company.
How Can I Apply?
Each application must include the documents listed below:
- Global Talent Stream application form (EMP5624)
- Annex 1 – Addition occupation – Global Talent Stream (EMP5625) (if applicable)
- Proof of business legitimacy
For a detailed step-by-step guide on how to fill the application form (EMP5624), please click here.
Once the application is complete, applicants must sign and send the form with all required documents attached. Applicants must also submit a processing fee of C$1,000 for each position requested. For payments, applicants may use Visa, MasterCard or American Express.
Note: withdrawn, cancelled, or negatively assessed applications will not receive a refund.
By implementing the Global Skills Visa, Canada facilitates a quick entry of top talent and in turn contributes to the growth and flourishment of innovative companies and job opportunities. Canada recognizes international students as integral to the country’s knowledge economy.
The Global Skills Visa is one of many Canadian visa options. Read our blog “Routes to Canada: Temporary vs permanent visa” to learn more!
Disclaimer: This information is intended solely as a reference; the official source for up-to-date immigration information is the Government of Canada’s website. ApplyBoard is not responsible for any application results. Select information was sourced from the Government of Canada.
Adrianna Dyczkowsky, Public Relations Specialist at ApplyBoard
