There are many options for foreign nationals in the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) sector looking to come to Canada.
Prior to recent announcements, Canada already offered many permanent residence and work permit pathways to global STEM talent. Recently, however, Canada has sought to open its doors even wider to STEM talent to support its economic growth and global competitiveness.
In light of these announcements, here is an overview of some of Canada’s most prominent permanent and temporary residence pathways for STEM professionals.
Express Entry: Popular federal pathway for permanent residence
Express Entry is the main way Canada’s federal government welcomes skilled immigrants.
On May 31st, Immigration Minister Sean Fraser announced the launch of category-based selection draws for Express Entry candidates. Express Entry candidates who have a strong French language proficiency or work experience in the following fields will be given priority by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC):
- Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM)
- Healthcare
- Trades, such as carpenters, plumbers, and contractors
- Transport
- Agriculture and agri-food
On July 5th, IRCC held its first-ever STEM category-based draw, inviting 500 applicants in STEM professions to apply for permanent residence.
Express Entry draws invite top ranking candidates in both targeted and general draws who can help meet Canadian labour and job market vacancies and will further economic goals.
Candidates in the Express Entry pool are ranked using a points-based system called the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). This system ranks candidates based on age, education, language skills, work experience and more.
To be eligible for an invitation through a category-based draw, you will meet all the requirements noted by IRCC for that draw.
Global Talent Stream Work Permits
The Global Talent Stream (GTS) is a facilitated work permit option that targets foreign nationals working in the IT sector. Among other initiatives, the GTS establishes a two-week standard for processing of work permit applications for highly skilled tech talent.
There are two categories under the GTS: Category A and Category B.
- Category A is for high growth companies that can demonstrate a need to recruit unique specialized talent from abroad. Employers in this category must be referred to the GTS by a designated referral partner.
- Category B is for employers looking to hire certain highly skilled workers for occupations found on the Global Talent Occupations List, which have been determined to be in demand and for which there is insufficient labour supply.
STEM workers may be eligible under Category B, as many of the occupations consist of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics occupations.
It is important to note that the GTS is also available in Quebec.
