Canada Fast-Tracks H-1B Pathway to Attract Global Talent Exam-Oriented Summary

• Canada has launched a new fast-track immigration pathway aimed at attracting skilled professionals currently or formerly holding US H-1B visas . This initiative is part of the 2025 Federal Budget , which focuses on strengthening innovation, addressing labour shortages, and enhancing Canada’s position as a global destination for research and advanced industry talent.

Policy Overview

• The H-1B pathway is designed to draw highly skilled workers impacted by changing US visa policies.

• The program supports professionals in research, healthcare, technology, and advanced manufacturing .

• Objective: Boost Canada’s innovation ecosystem and fill critical skill gaps in key sectors.

Budget Highlights

1. CA$1.7 billion allocated to recruit over 1,000 international researchers through a one-time initiative.

2. CA$1 billion committed over 13 years for Accelerated Research Chairs to strengthen academic and industrial research.

3. CA$97 million earmarked for a Foreign Credential Recognition Action Fund (2026–27 to 2030–31) to streamline licensing of foreign-trained professionals—especially in healthcare and construction.

Eligibility and Process

• Open to current and former US H-1B visa holders .

• Offers an accelerated route to live and work in Canada across priority sectors.

• Focuses on simplified documentation and credential recognition to ensure recruits can begin contributing quickly.

Implementation and Coordination

• The initiative will operate in coordination with provincial and territorial governments .

• The Foreign Credential Recognition Action Fund will partner with regulatory bodies to speed up licensing processes and remove barriers for internationally trained professionals.

Impact on Key Sectors

• Healthcare: Addresses shortages in medical and nursing roles through quicker licensing and recruitment.

• Research and Academia: Strengthens universities’ capacity for cutting-edge research and innovation.

• Technology and Industry: Helps employers access top-tier global talent for AI, clean tech, and advanced manufacturing projects.

Strategic Goals

• Enhance Canada’s global competitiveness by retaining and attracting international expertise.

• Accelerate innovation-led growth through integration of global researchers and skilled professionals.

• Support economic resilience by balancing talent mobility, research investment, and labour market needs.