Canada opens fast-track immigration pathway for H-1B visa holders as US tightens rules; Indians to benefit
PTC Web Desk: The Canadian government has announced a new, fast-track immigration programme for holders of US H-1B visas. The move, part of Canada’s 2025 federal budget, aims to attract high-skilled professionals who are being affected by recent changes in US immigration policies. According to a report by CIC News, this initiative is part of Canada’s larger International Talent Attraction Strategy, designed to fill labour shortages in key industries and boost national innovation.
This new policy comes at a time when many Indian professionals in the US are facing growing uncertainty about their jobs. The US, under President Donald Trump’s directive, has encouraged companies to prioritise hiring American citizens. Additionally, the new US immigration policy now includes a one-time fee of around $100,000 (approximately Rs 88 lakh) for new H-1B visa applications, a change that could make it harder and more expensive for foreign workers to continue working in the country.
Sensing this shift, Canada has seen a major opportunity to attract the same pool of talented professionals who may now look for alternatives outside the US. The H-1B visa is particularly popular among tech workers, engineers, and IT experts, with a large number of holders being of Indian origin.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney recently confirmed that his government is actively working on policies to draw these professionals to Canada. “Not as many H-1B holders will get visas in the US. These are skilled people, an opportunity for Canada,” Carney said in September. “We’ll have an offering soon,” he added, hinting at the upcoming immigration pathway.
Through this programme, Ottawa hopes to strengthen its technology and innovation sectors by giving foreign professionals, especially those with work experience in the US, a smoother path to settle and work in Canada.
- With inputs from agencies
