Canada to Roll Out Accelerated Pathway for H-1B Visa Holders to Boost Skilled Worker Recruitment
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The Canadian government has introduced plans to recruit international talent and enhance foreign credentials as part of the 2025 budget measures. Here's a quick rundown of what they plan to implement:
New, Accelerated Pathway for H-1B Visa Holders
One of the best initiatives is the launch of an accelerated pathway for H-1B visa holders. This new route is made to build up Canada’s innovation ecosystem, address labour shortages, and attract top talent in sectors like healthcare, research, and advanced industries.
The move aligns with recent comments from Mark Carney about bringing more tech talent into Canada, especially those affected by the U.S. H-1B fee hikes.
Also Read: Canada’s IRCC Announces Which PR Applicant It Processes in 2025
Launch of the International Talent Attraction Strategy and Action Plan
Canada is also rolling out a targeted, one-time initiative to bring over 1,000 highly qualified international researchers into the country. An investment of up to $1.7 billion will support various related measures:
- A substantial $1 billion will be invested over 13 years (starting 2025–26) to create an accelerated program for research Chairs. This money will go to the country's main research granting agencies (NSERC, SSHRC, and CIHR) and is intended to directly recruit elite international researchers to Canadian universities.
- To ensure these new research leaders can hit the ground running, $400 million is set aside for over seven years (starting 2025–26) for the Canada Foundation for Innovation.
- To build the next generation of researchers, $133.6 million is proposed over three years (starting 2026–27) to help top international PhD students and postdoctoral fellows move to and settle in Canada.
- Universities will also receive support, with up to $120 million over 12 years (starting 2026–27) specifically designated to help them recruit talented international assistant professors.
Also Read: Canada to Redefine Immigration Strategy to Attract Skilled Global Talent & Boost Innovation
Foreign Credential Recognition Action Fund
The government has also earmarked $97 million over five years (starting 2026–27) for the Foreign Credential Recognition Action Fund (managed by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC)). The fund aims to focus on the recognition process of foreign credentials, with a particular focus on the healthcare and construction sectors. The resources will come from existing departmental funds.
Successfully Immigrate to Canada With Expert Assistance at GetGIS
Are you a highly skilled professional, an H-1B visa holder, or a researcher ready to take advantage of Canada's new accelerated pathways and talent recruitment initiatives in 2025-26?
Consider seeking Canada PR end-to-end assistance from our experts at GetGIS. Our team provides personalized, tailor-made guidance throughout your Canada PR process, ensuring you navigate the new rules effectively for a safe immigration and integration into Canada.
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