Work Permit Options in Canada For IT Professionals

Surya Rathee
[Published 05 Jan, 2024 | 11:06 AM]
About Author - 6 min read
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In recent years, Canada has emerged as a promising destination for IT professionals from around the world. Canada’s IT sector is booming - fuelling both job opportunities and innovation.

The Information Technology Association of Canada (ITAC) sees the IT industry as a growth engine, with around 37,000 companies generating CAD$ 160 billion in revenue. For that reason, tech talent from around the world is in significant demand across Canada.

This demand is seen none clearer than in the more recent introduction of category-based draws for Express Entry for skilled workers with work experience in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) occupations.

So, if you're an IT professional dreaming of making a move to Canada, here are three pathways that could open the doors to your Canadian dream in 2024.

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How to get a work permit in Canada as an IT professional?

1. Global Talent Stream

The Global Talent Stream (GTS) is a designated immigration pathway for helping employers hire foreign skilled workers in Canada’s Tech industry. This stream is perfect for IT professionals due to the ever-growing demand for tech workers in the country.

To qualify for the Global Talent Stream, individuals must be hired by a designated employer in Canada. As an IT professional, having a job offer from a Canadian company is the key to accessing this pathway. The employer must also secure a Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) that demonstrates the positive impact of hiring a foreign worker on the Canadian labor market.

Once the job offer and LMIA are in place, the skilled worker can apply for a work permit through the Global Talent Stream. One of the significant advantages of this program is the expedited processing time, allowing IT professionals to start their Canadian journey in as little as two weeks from submitting their applications.

2. Intra-Company Transfers

For IT professionals working in multinational corporations, the Canada Intra-Company Transfers (ICT) program is an excellent option to consider when looking to move to Canada. This program facilitates the temporary relocation of skilled employees within the same company from an overseas office to a Canadian branch.

To be eligible for an ICT, IT professionals must have been employed by the company for a specified duration and occupy a managerial, executive, or specialized knowledge position. The transfer should be within a qualifying multinational enterprise, ensuring that the individual is moving between related entities.

One advantage of the Intra-Company Transfers program is that it doesn't require a Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). However, candidates must still obtain a work permit, and the duration of their stay is typically limited. Nevertheless, this pathway provides an excellent opportunity for IT professionals to gain international experience within their current organization while contributing to the growth of the Canadian branch.

3. CUSMA Professionals

The Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), formerly known as NAFTA, offers another option for IT professionals to get a work permit in Canada. CUSMA includes a provision for professionals from member countries to work in Canada temporarily. This option is particularly beneficial for IT experts who are citizens of the United States or Mexico.

Under the CUSMA Professionals category, IT professionals must meet specific criteria to be eligible for a work permit in Canada. The occupation must be listed in the agreement, and the individual must have the necessary qualifications and work experience. Common IT roles such as software developers, computer systems analysts, and database analysts fall within the eligible occupations.

To apply, IT professionals need a job offer from a Canadian employer, and the employer must submit a letter of support confirming that the candidate meets the requirements. Additionally, applicants should be prepared to provide documentation proving their professional qualifications and experience.

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Moving to Canada as an IT Professional in 2024

Canada's IT industry is experiencing unprecedented growth. With a supportive ecosystem for start-ups, numerous investments in research and development, and a skilled workforce - the country is positioning itself as a global tech hub.

Between April 2022 and March 2023, more than 32,000 global tech industry workers came to Canada. A recent report highlighted some of Canada’s most attractive cities for top tech talent, a ranking that included two cities in Ontario (ON) and one city in Quebec (QUE) within the top three. In order, the report ranked Mississauga (ON) in first place followed by Montreal (QUE) and Waterloo (ON).

IT professionals play a crucial role in driving this growth, making it an exciting time to be part of Canada's tech landscape. Moving to Canada as an IT professional is an achievable goal with the right knowledge and approach. The Global Talent Stream, Intra-Company Transfers program, and the CUSMA Professionals category offer viable paths for skilled workers, to explore new opportunities in the Canadian job market.

Whether you secure a job offer from a designated employer, pursue an intra-company transfer, or leverage the CUSMA agreement, each pathway comes with its own set of requirements and benefits. It's essential to carefully assess your eligibility and work towards meeting the criteria outlined by the Canadian immigration authorities.

As Canada continues to welcome skilled workers from around the world, IT professionals have a chance to contribute to the country's thriving tech industry and enjoy the many benefits of living in a nation known for its inclusivity, natural beauty, and high quality of life. Canada gives them an option to move to Canada temporarily with the potential to apply for Canada PR Visa. With the right approach, your Canadian dream as an IT professional can become a reality.

Good Luck!

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