What Is the Global Talent Stream (GTS)?
The Global Talent Stream is a part of Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). It is designed to help Canadian employers quickly hire highly skilled foreign workers when there is a shortage of talent in Canada.
The goal of the program is to support Canada’s innovation sector by providing fast-tracked immigration options for specialized workers in certain fields.
Key Features:
- Fast Processing: Applications are processed in as little as two weeks
- No Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) advertising requirements for some positions
- Access to dedicated service for employers
Benefits of the Global Talent Stream
The GTS offers several advantages for both employers and workers:
For Employers:
- Faster access to global talent
- Simplified recruitment process
- Ability to fill urgent skill gaps
For Workers:
- Two-week work permit processing time
- Opportunity to work in Canada’s top companies
- Pathway to permanent residency
Categories Under the Global Talent Stream
There are two main categories under GTS:
Category A – Designated Partner Referrals
This is for companies in Canada that are referred by a designated partner organization and are hiring unique or specialized talent.
To qualify, the worker must:
- Have advanced knowledge of the industry
- Be offered a job with a minimum salary (usually over CAD 80,000 or more depending on the role)
- Possess an advanced degree or equivalent experience
Category B – In-Demand Occupations
This is for employers hiring for positions listed in the Global Talent Occupations List — a pre-defined list of jobs in high demand across Canada.
Canada’s Global Talent Stream Qualifying Jobs
Let’s explore Category B, which includes the qualifying jobs under Canada’s Global Talent Stream.
These jobs are selected based on labor shortages in specific sectors, mainly technology and engineering. Below is a detailed table with qualifying jobs as per the official Global Talent Occupations List.
Table: Canada’s Global Talent Stream Qualifying Jobs (Category B)
| Job Title | NOC Code | Minimum Salary Requirements | Field |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and information systems managers | 20012 | CAD 90,000+ per year | IT Management |
| Computer engineers (except software engineers) | 21311 | CAD 80,000+ per year | Engineering |
| Software engineers and designers | 21231 | CAD 80,000+ per year | Software Development |
| Mathematicians, statisticians, and actuaries | 21210 | CAD 75,000+ per year | Data Science |
| Information systems analysts and consultants | 21222 | CAD 75,000+ per year | IT Consulting |
| Database analysts and data administrators | 21223 | CAD 70,000+ per year | Data Management |
| Computer programmers and interactive media developers | 21230 | CAD 70,000+ per year | Programming |
| Web designers and developers | 21233 | CAD 65,000+ per year | Web Development |
| Electrical and electronics engineers | 21310 | CAD 80,000+ per year | Engineering |
| Civil engineers | 21300 | CAD 75,000+ per year | Infrastructure |
| Mechanical engineers | 21301 | CAD 75,000+ per year | Mechanical Design |
| Industrial and manufacturing engineers | 21321 | CAD 75,000+ per year | Manufacturing |
| UX and UI designers | 52120 | CAD 65,000+ per year | Design |
Note: These salaries are minimum thresholds and may be higher depending on location and company.
Are You Eligible?
If you’re a foreign skilled worker, you are eligible if:
- You have a job offer in one of the qualifying occupations
- The employer is either referred by a designated partner (Category A) or hiring from the occupations list (Category B)
- You meet the education and experience requirements for the role
- You are not currently inadmissible to Canada
Employer Requirements and Process
Canadian employers must:
- Submit an application to the Global Talent Stream
- Develop a Labour Market Benefits Plan (LMBP) showing how hiring foreign workers will benefit Canada
- Offer a competitive salary based on Canadian standards
- Commit to training and hiring Canadians in the long term
Designated Referral Partners (Category A)
Employers applying under Category A must be referred by a designated organization, such as:
- MaRS Discovery District
- Communitech
- BC Tech Association
- Innovation PEI
A full list of designated partners is available on the Government of Canada website.
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply Through the Global Talent Stream
For Employers:
- Determine Eligibility
Check if your company qualifies under Category A or B. - Create a Job Offer
Ensure the offer includes all details like wage, responsibilities, and start date. - Develop Labour Market Benefits Plan
With the help of Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). - Submit GTS Application
Pay the CAD 1,000 processing fee per worker. - Receive GTS Approval
Upon approval, the worker can apply for a work permit.
For Workers:
- Receive Job Offer
Ensure it matches a GTS-eligible role. - Apply for Work Permit
Include the GTS offer letter and employer approval. - Get Approval in Two Weeks
Processing usually takes 10 business days.
How to Increase Your Chances of Approval
- Ensure your resume and qualifications are aligned with the job description
- Provide clear documentation of your experience and education
- Have a valid passport and supporting documents ready
- Be transparent and truthful in your application
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I apply to the Global Talent Stream without a job offer?
No. You must have a valid job offer from a Canadian employer.
2. Is this program a pathway to permanent residency?
Yes. Many workers use GTS as a stepping stone to apply for PR through Express Entry.
3. What if my job is not on the occupations list?
You may explore other programs such as the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).
4. Do I need a language test?
Usually no for a temporary work permit under GTS, but yes if you later apply for permanent residency.
Conclusion
Canada’s Global Talent Stream qualifying jobs open doors for skilled professionals to enter the country quickly and start working in top tech and engineering fields. Whether you’re an employer looking to bring in global expertise or a worker seeking exciting opportunities in Canada, understanding this program is key to a successful application.
By knowing which jobs qualify, preparing strong documentation, and working with reputable employers, your path to working in Canada can be smoother and faster than ever.
If you’re in a tech or engineering profession and want to move to Canada, the Global Talent Stream may be your best route.