Guide to Global Talent Stream (GTS) for Foreign Workers in Canada
What is Canada's Global Talent Stream?
Canada’s Global Talent Stream is a specialized stream within the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), addressing the need for skilled workers in specific fields. It fast-tracks applications to attract global talent and fuel economic growth and innovation.
The program benefits Canadian employers by filling important roles and offers opportunities for professionals to gain valuable work experience. It provides a pathway to explore permanent residency, making it an attractive option for a fulfilling career in Canada.
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How Does the Global Talent Stream Work for Employers?
GTS primarily caters to employers seeking skilled employees on a global scale.Unlike traditional Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs) that take months to process, the GTS expedites hiring procedures, enabling employers to fill labor market needs promptly and stay competitive in the global market. Let’s explore how this streamlined program operates from the perspective of Canadian employers searching for top talent worldwide.
Under GTS, Canadian employers can access a fast-track application process. This means reduced processing times for work permit applications, enabling employers to swiftly onboard qualified international professionals to fill critical positions.
The GTS prioritizes highly-skilled workers in specialized occupations, particularly those with expertise in fields like engineering and technology. This focus on top talent ensures that employers can attract candidates with the specific skills and knowledge needed to drive innovation and productivity in their organizations.
Employers can collaborate with designated referral organizations (DROs) to identify suitable candidates for their job openings. These organizations play a crucial role in connecting employers with skilled individuals who meet the program’s criteria and requirements.
By accessing global talent through Global Talent Stream, Canadian employers can leverage the diverse skills and experiences of international professionals to boost their businesses’ competitiveness and fuel economic growth. Hiring from a global talent pool expands possibilities for innovation and development in various sectors.
The GTS addresses labor market shortages in critical sectors by facilitating the entry of skilled foreign workers. Employers can fill essential roles with qualified individuals, ensuring continued operational efficiency and advancement in their industries.
For skilled foreign workers hired through the GTS, employers can provide valuable opportunities for professional growth and development. As these workers gain experience in Canada, they may explore potential pathways to permanent residency, fostering a sense of stability and loyalty in the workforce.
Engaging with Global Talent Stream enables Canadian employers to strengthen their global connections. By welcoming international talent, organizations can foster a diverse and inclusive work environment, fostering cross-cultural collaboration and understanding.
Global Talent Stream Eligibility: Canadian Employers' Qualifications
To be eligible for the GTS, Canadian employers must fall into one of two categories:
- Referred by a Global Talent Stream designated partner organization.
- Hiring unique and specialized talent with a minimum annual salary of CAD $80,000 or higher (depending on the occupation’s prevailing wage) and either advanced knowledge in a specialized area or at least five years of specialized experience.
| Region/Province | Designated Organizations or Partners |
| Pan-Canadian |
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| The Atlantic Region |
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| New Brunswick |
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| Newfoundland and Labrador |
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| Nova Scotia |
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| Prince Edward Island |
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| Ontario |
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| Quebec |
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| Alberta |
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| British Columbia |
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| Manitoba |
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| Saskatchewan |
|
- Hiring for a position listed on the Global Talent Occupations List, which includes high-skilled, in-demand occupations.
- Offering a salary equal to or above the prevailing wage for the position.
- Once eligible, employers can begin their GTS application, providing details about the employer, foreign worker, and job offer, including compensation and benefits. A Labour Market Benefits Plan demonstrating the benefits to the Canadian labor market is also required.
NOC Code 2011 | NOC Code 2021 | Occupation |
0213 | 20012 | Computer and information systems managers |
2131 | 21300 | Civil engineers |
2133 | 21310 | Electrical and electronics engineers |
2143 | 21330 | Mining engineers |
2146 | 21390 | Aerospace engineers |
2147 | 21311 | Computer engineers (except software engineers and designers) |
Sub-set of 2161* | Sub-set of 21210* | Mathematicians and statisticians * Positions for actuaries or related occupations are excluded from this subset. |
2171 | 21211 – Data Scientists 21220 – Cyber Security Specialists 21221 – Business System Specialists 21222 – Information Systems Specialists 21233 – Web Designers | Information systems analysts and consultants |
2172 | 21211 – Data Scientists 21223 – Database Analysts and Data Administrators | Database analysts and data administrators |
2173 | 21231 – Software Engineers and Designers 21211 – Data Scientists | Software engineers and designers |
2174 | 21230 – Computer Systems Developers and Programmers 21232 – Software Developers and Programmers 21234 – Web Developers and Programmers | Computer programmers and interactive media developers |
2175 | 21233 – Web Designers 21234 – Web Developers and Programmers | Web Designers and Developers |
2241 | 22310 | Electrical and electronics engineering technologists and technicians |
2281 | 22220 | Computer network technicians (NOC 2021 occupation: Computer network and web technicians) |
2283 | 22222 | Information Systems Testing technicians |
Sub-set of 5131** | Sub-set of 51120** | Producer, technical, creative and artistic director and project manager – Visual effects and video games |
Sub-set of 5241*** | Sub-set of 52120*** | Digital media designers |
The GTS applications are usually processed within 10 business days. If successful, employers receive a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) that allows the foreign worker to apply for a work permit, which receives expedited processing, averaging around 10 business days. Note that for employers in Quebec, they should also submit an application to Quebec’s immigration authorities, as Quebec jointly manages immigration applications with the federal government.
How Does the Global Talent Stream Work for Foreign Workers?
As a foreign worker seeking employment opportunities in Canada through the Global Talent Stream, it’s important to understand the application process. Please note that direct application to the Global Talent Stream is not possible; only Canadian employers can apply on behalf of foreign workers they wish to hire.
Employer Application
Canadian employers play a pivotal role in the Global Talent Stream. They are the ones who can apply, listing the foreign worker(s) they intend to hire on the application. To obtain a Global Talent Stream work permit, your primary objective should be to secure a job offer from a qualified Canadian employer.
Categories within the Global Talent Stream
The Global Talent Stream offers two distinct categories for Canadian employers to apply through:
- Category A: Reserved for employers referred by designated partners of the Global Talent Stream, seeking to hire unique and specialized talent.
- Category B: Designed for employers hiring for positions listed on the Global Talent Occupations List.
Assessing Eligibility as a Foreign Worker
As a foreign worker, determine if you meet the criteria for “unique and specialized talent” or if your occupation aligns with the Global Talent Occupations List. These qualifications will determine your eligibility for the Global Talent Stream.
Securing a Job Offer
To qualify under the Global Talent Stream, your next step is securing a job offer from a Canadian employer who qualifies for the program. This essential milestone will pave the way for you to explore exciting career opportunities in Canada through the Global Talent Stream.
BONUS! Opportunities in Canada's Thriving Job Market
Canada’s Global Talent Stream provides international professionals with opportunities to work in various high-demand sectors. Some of the thriving industries that frequently hire talent through the Global Talent Stream include:
Industry #1: Technology and IT
Canada’s tech sector is rapidly growing, and there is a high demand for skilled professionals in areas such as software development, cybersecurity, data analytics, artificial intelligence, and digital marketing.
Industry #2: Engineering
The engineering sector in Canada offers opportunities for professionals in fields such as civil engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and software engineering. The country’s infrastructure development projects and technological advancements create a demand for skilled engineers.
Industry #3: Healthcare
The Canadian healthcare industry consistently requires qualified healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, medical laboratory technologists, and healthcare administrators. The aging population and ongoing healthcare advancements contribute to the demand for international talent in this field.
