Canada’s red-hot job market continues to grapple with skill shortages. To bridge this gap, the Global Talent Stream (GTS) offers a streamlined pathway for qualified foreign workers and innovative employers to connect. Launched in 2017, this program boasts significantly faster processing times compared to the traditional Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP).
Who Benefits from the GTS?
The GTS caters to two key players:
- Skilled Foreign Workers: Are you an international talent with in-demand skills? The GTS can expedite your work permit application, allowing you to contribute your expertise to Canada’s thriving economy sooner.
- Canadian Employers: Struggling to find the right talent domestically? The GTS can help you tap into a global pool of qualified workers, filling critical positions and propelling your business forward.
Eligibility: Meeting the Requirements
Both employers and foreign workers need to meet specific criteria to participate in the GTS. Here’s a breakdown:
- Employers:
- Compliance: A clean record of adhering to Canadian labor laws is crucial.
- Labor Market Benefits Plan: Demonstrate your commitment to upskilling the Canadian workforce by outlining training initiatives in this plan.
- Foreign Workers:
- Job Offer Fit: The offered position must align with either Category A or B of the GTS:
- Category A: Requires a recommendation from a designated referral partner (government-approved organizations specializing in connecting employers with global talent).
- Category B: Focuses on high-demand occupations listed on the Global Talent Occupations List.
- Remuneration: The offered salary must meet or exceed the prevailing wage for the position and location.
- Qualifications: Possess the necessary education, training, and work experience for the role.
- Language Skills: English or French proficiency may be required depending on the job’s nature.
- Job Offer Fit: The offered position must align with either Category A or B of the GTS:
Streamlined Application Process: Navigating the Steps
The GTS application involves a series of steps designed to ensure a smooth and efficient process:
- Employer Readiness: Before diving in, employers should confirm their eligibility and clearly define the position they need to fill.
- LMIA Application: Submit a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) application with ESDC, detailing the job duties, qualifications required, and recruitment efforts undertaken to find Canadians for the role.
- Labor Market Benefits Plan: Demonstrate your commitment to supporting the Canadian workforce by outlining relevant training initiatives in this plan.
- LMIA Evaluation: ESDC will assess the LMIA application and your Labor Market Benefits Plan to determine if your company aligns with the GTS criteria.
- Work Permit Application: Once the LMIA is approved, the foreign worker can apply for a work permit. Depending on their nationality, an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) might also be required.
- Work Permit Issuance: Upon successful work permit application processing by IRCC, the foreign worker can enter Canada and begin employment.
Faster Processing Times: A Key Advantage
Processing timelines can vary depending on application volume and complexity. However, the Canadian government has prioritized streamlining the GTS process to benefit both employers and foreign workers. As of March 2024:
- LMIA Processing: The average processing time for an LMIA under the GTS is significantly faster than the TFWP’s standard streams, typically taking only 7 business days.
- Work Permit Processing: Following a successful LMIA, work permit processing for qualified foreign workers is generally expedited, allowing them to start working in Canada within weeks.
Click here to view the full list of occupations eligible under Category B of GTS.
The GTS: A Win-Win for Canada’s Future
By attracting skilled foreign workers and fostering a more robust talent pool, the Global Talent Stream empowers Canadian businesses to thrive in the competitive global landscape. This program also benefits foreign workers seeking rewarding career opportunities and a chance to contribute their expertise to Canada’s dynamic economy. As Canada’s labor market continues to evolve, the GTS is poised to play a critical role in attracting top talent and fostering a more prosperous future for all.
