Fast-tracking global tech talent hiring for innovative Canadian businesses worldwide.
The Global Talent Stream (GTS) is a specialized stream within Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). It was designed to make the work permit process faster and more efficient for certain Canadian employers, helping them compete globally.
The program was launched in June 2017 as a collaboration between Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC).
The Global Talent Stream allows eligible Canadian employers to hire highly skilled professionals from around the world, particularly in technology and engineering fields.
Through the Global Skills Strategy, approved employers can benefit from faster processing times for work permits. The main goal is to help Canadian businesses grow, innovate, and create better job opportunities for Canadians.
The GTS primarily supports occupations such as:
Software engineers
Computer programmers
Information systems analysts
Other highly specialized technical roles
Applications under the Global Talent Stream are processed through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP).
Businesses may qualify under two categories:
Employers referred by one of ESDC’s recognized partners.
Employers seeking to hire foreign nationals for highly skilled occupations listed in designated technology professions.
Employers applying under the Global Talent Stream must work with ESDC to develop a Labour Market Benefits Plan (LMBP).
This plan outlines how hiring a foreign worker will benefit the Canadian labour market in the long term. The goal is to ensure that bringing global talent into Canada contributes to:
Job creation
Skills development
Training investments
Knowledge transfer to Canadians and permanent residents
The commitments under the Labour Market Benefits Plan are divided into:
Required benefits
Complementary benefits
If applying under both Category A and Category B, employers must commit to:
One job creation activity
One investment in skills and training activity
At least two complementary benefits
Examples of complementary benefits include:
Job growth
Investment in education and skills
Knowledge transfer
Increased workplace diversity
Improved company performance
Adoption of best workplace practices
ESDC works directly with employers during the application process to develop this plan.
Although there is no strict minimum recruitment requirement under the Global Talent Stream, employers are encouraged to hire Canadians and permanent residents first. Any recruitment efforts made must be disclosed during the application.
Temporary foreign workers hired under the Global Talent Stream must receive wages comparable to Canadian citizens and permanent residents performing the same job at the same location, with similar qualifications and experience.
The Global Talent Stream helps Canadian employers hire highly skilled professionals faster. Our team guides you through eligibility, compliance, and Labour Market Benefits Plan preparation.
