Canada’s tech scene is booming. The country has become a hot spot for tech professionals worldwide. This is especially true for Indian tech professionals, who are increasingly drawn to Canada's vibrant tech ecosystem.
The surge in Indian immigration to Canada can also be attributed to Trump's anti-immigration policies, which worked to tighten restrictions around the H-1B visa program. Canada, on the other hand, has welcomed immigrants. The Liberal government recognizes foreign-born talent's value to the country and has kept its doors open.
As a result, Indian tech professionals are moving to Canada in droves. In fact, in the last ten years, Indian immigration to Canada has more than tripled. If you want to join this growing community to work in Canada, you should explore your options. Canada has several different routes you can take.
In this article, we’ll explore Canada’s approach to tech talent and the process of securing a work permit and visa, which can act as a stepping stone to permanent residency. Let’s go.
Canada’s Tech Talent Strategy
To start, let’s discuss how Canada is approaching foreign-born tech talent.
The Canadian government is actively working to attract global tech talent, and it’s evident in their newly introduced Tech Talent Strategy. The country is eager to fill in-demand jobs and create opportunities for skilled individuals. This program aims to boost Canada’s economy and solidify its position as a global tech hub.
To achieve this, Canada has introduced four key pillars:
- Innovation Stream under the International Mobility Program: allows Canadian employers to hire foreign workers without a labor market impact assessment (LMIA). And more to come – an Innovation Stream will be introduced later this year to bring talented workers and drive innovative businesses in Canada.
- Promoting Canada as a destination for digital nomads: They are exploring policies to attract remote workers who can perform their jobs from anywhere.
- Streamlined work permits for H-1B visa holders in the US: H-1B visa holders can apply to work in Canada with open work permits for up to three years.
- Improving existing programs for high-skilled tech workers: They are enhancing the Global Skills Strategy and Start-up Visa Program to provide quick access to skilled talent.
By focusing on these initiatives, Canada aims to remain a top choice for tech professionals worldwide and foster innovation and growth in the tech industry.
Exploring Canadian Work Permits
As an Indian tech professional, you need to get your hands on both a visa and a work permit to work in Canada. There are several ways you can go about this. You can secure a work permit before applying for a visa.
Or, you can apply for a work permit once you’ve settled in Canada. The route you take depends on your situation. We’ll learn how to secure a work permit before or after your arrival in Canada.
What Is a Canadian Work Permit for Foreign Workers?
A Canadian work permit is a document that allows foreign nationals to work in the country for a specific employer and duration. It is temporary and has conditions like the employer's name and work period.
To work in Canada, foreign nationals must apply for a work permit based on their qualifications and situation. Are you uncertain whether you require one and what type of visa to pick? Keep reading.
There are two types of work permits:
Employer-Specific Work Permit
- Lets you work for a specific employer under certain conditions.
- Your employer must provide your employment contract and either a Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) copy or an offer of employment number (for LMIA-exempt workers).
Open Work Permit
- Allows you to work for any employer in Canada except those with specific ineligible activities.
- They only apply in certain situations. You may qualify for an open work permit if:
- You graduated from a designated learning institution in Canada and qualify for the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program.
- You're a student facing financial hardships (destitute student).
- You hold an employer-specific work permit and experience abuse or risk of abuse in your job in Canada.
- You applied for permanent residence in Canada.
- You're a dependent family member of someone applying for permanent residence.
- You're the spouse, common-law partner, or dependent child of a low- or high-skilled worker.
- You're the spouse or common-law partner of an international student.
- You're an applicant's spouse or common-law partner under the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program.
- You're a refugee, refugee claimant, protected person, or family member.
- You're under an unenforceable removal order.
- You hold a temporary resident permit.
- You're a young worker participating in special programs.
If any of these apply, you may be eligible for an open work permit in Canada.
Remember, some jobs may require a medical exam. If you want to avoid medical conditions on your open work permit, get a medical exam from a panel physician.
Bringing your family? Your spouse, common-law partner, and dependent children may be able to work, study, or live with you in Canada while you work.
Other Programs to Consider
Canada has several programs to offer. You may want to look into the following ones.
Temporary Foreign Worker Program
If you are a skilled worker in a niche occupation, this program for temporary foreign workers may be ideal for you to test the waters of living in Canada. As a temporary worker, you'll be filling a position employers can't fill with Canadian citizens or permanent residents because the skillset is unavailable. Note that this program will not grant you permanent resident status.
Live-in caregiver program
Another option is best for workers skilled in caring for others. Canadians can hire a foreign national as a live-in caregiver for their children or family members who require round-the-clock care. They can sponsor a valid visa for you to work in Canada under this scheme.
Studying in Canada
Canadian educational institutions rank among the top in the world. International students may move to Canada on a study permit to take any range of post-secondary courses. Those coming with children will also find a friendly and well-adapted education system.
How to Apply for a Canada Work Permit
If you’re applying for a work permit from outside Canada, there are specific steps you need to take. Remember that the Canadian government now prioritizes certain applications, especially for essential service workers. If your job isn’t on the priority list, you can rest assured your application will still be processed. It just might take a bit longer.
For faster processing, provide the National Occupational Classification (NOC) number from your employer's offer of employment or LMIA when filling out the application form.
Enter the number in the Job title box (Box 4) under the Details of intended work in the Canada section. That's all it takes.
Here is the list of documents that may be required for a Canadian work permit application:
- Completed application forms
- Proof of status in Canada (if applicable)
- Proof of family member's status (if applicable)
- Labor Market Impact Assessment (if applicable)
- A written offer of employment (if applicable)
- CV/ résumé
- Marriage certificate (if applicable)
- Certificat d'acceptation du Québec (CAQ) (if applicable)
- Proof that you meet the job requirements
- A valid copy of your passport
- Copy of education credential
- Medical exam results (if requested)
- Evidence of financial means to stay in Canada and return to home country
- Proof of payment for applicable government fees
- Recent passport-sized photos
Applying for Work Permits In Canada
Foreign nationals currently in Canada as visitors who receive a valid job offer can apply for a work permit without leaving the country.
This applies to visitors who previously held a work permit within the last 12 months, as they can also request interim work authorization for a quicker start with their new employer. The COVID-era temporary public policy has been extended by two years until February 28, 2025.
During this economic expansion, employers in Canada can now hire from the pool of visitors. This helps tackle labor shortages and brings in more talent
Before this temporary policy change, applicants intending to work in Canada typically had to apply for their initial work permit outside the country. If they were already in Canada as visitors when their work permit got approved, they had to leave the country to receive it.
However, leaving Canada isn't necessary with the current policy in place.
To apply for this temporary public policy, the applicant must:
- Have valid visitor status in Canada on the day of application
- Hold a job offer supported by a labor market impact assessment (LMIA) or an LMIA-exempt offer of employment
- Apply to an employer-specific work permit no later than February 28, 2025
- Meet all other standard admissibility criteria
Moreover, applicants currently holding visitor status and having a valid work permit within the past 12 months can follow special instructions to obtain interim work authorization. This allows them to start working for their new employer before their work permit application is finalized.
Step-by-Step Guide on Canadian Visas
As an Indian tech professional visiting Canada, it’s key to know how to secure a visa. The process might seem tedious but don’t worry; you’ve got this. Just follow each step carefully and you’ll be on your way before you know it.
What Is a Visa?
A visitor visa, also called a temporary resident visa, is an official document in your passport. It serves as proof that you meet the requirements to enter Canada. For most travelers, having a visitor visa is necessary to travel to Canada. If you are coming for work, you may need to apply for a Canadian work visa, which instead of visiting, grants you permission to work in Canada.
Do I Need a Visa?
India is not on the visa-exempt list, meaning travelers need a visa to enter Canada.
No matter how you choose to travel – whether by plane, car, bus, train, or cruise ship – the requirements remain the same. If India were on the visa-exempt list, travelers would only need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA).
How Do I Apply for a Visa?
You need to follow several steps to apply for a Canadian visa successfully. Ensure you follow each one to the T to help boost your chances of obtaining one.
- Gather Required Documents
Check the list for criteria and gather documents. The documents required for your visa application depend on the purpose of your travel to Canada.
For a work visa, you may need a Canadian job offer. If you are looking at family sponsorship, you might require a letter of invitation from a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. To receive a study permit, you'll need an admission letter. So, as you can see, requirements will depend on the type of visa you need. You may also need proof of health insurance for any of these visas.
- Apply Online
Then, create an account on the Canadian government website. Once you’ve done that, upload your documents, and pay the fees. As of 2023, the fee for a visitor visa is $100 CAD per person.
- Biometrics - Fingerprint and Photo
When submitting your application, ensure you pay the required biometric fee to avoid delays. It currently stands at $85 CAD per person.
After paying the biometric fee, you'll receive a letter confirming that you need to provide biometrics and telling you where you can go to provide them. You can also consult this page to find a location close to you. Remember to bring this letter and your valid passport for the biometrics appointment.
Remember that the time to receive the instruction letter depends on your application method and biometric fee payment.
You need to provide your biometrics in person. Schedule an appointment as soon as you receive the instruction letter. Temporary measures may be in place if you can't book an appointment by the deadline.
Tips for a Successful Biometrics Appointment
- Keep your hands henna-free for clear fingerprints.
- Allow temporary finger injuries to heal before giving biometrics.
- Wear bright-colored clothing; avoid light colors or headgear. Headgear is allowed for religious purposes, but your whole face must be visible in the photo.
Note: If high-quality fingerprints can't be obtained during your appointment, you might need to provide biometrics again later.
Application Processing
Once you submit your application for a visa, the Canadian government will take some time to review it. If you submitted an incomplete application, it’ll be returned to you. However, if it’s approved, you’ll receive confirmation. The next step is to send your passport and follow the instructions for visa issuance. Don’t worry, you’ll receive all the information you need, confirming where to send your passport.
Prepare for Travel
Now that you’ve been issued a visa, it’s time to prepare for your travels. As always, make sure to carry all the necessary documents with you. It’s better to be safe than sorry, so if you’re unclear about what documents to bring, it’s best to bring any possible ones. Also, make sure to triple-check the list provided to you for guidance.
Arrival in Canada
Once you’ve arrived in Canada, it’s time to present the required documents. To prepare yourself, take another look at the list.
Final Thoughts
The Canadian government recognizes how Indian tech professionals contribute to the country. As a result, securing a Canadian visa and a work permit has become more accessible.
Whether you're looking to build a successful career or leave a lasting impact on the global tech scene, Canada offers a wealth of opportunities for skilled workers who want to work in Canada. So, if you're dreaming of making your mark in the tech world, consider Canada as your next step toward a fulfilling future.
Disclaimer
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