Canada to Process Additional H-1B Open Work Permit Applications

Good news for U.S. tech workers with H-1B visas! Canadian immigration officials announced they will begin processing additional H-1B open work permit applications received under a special program launched last year.

This move comes as part of Canada’s groundbreaking Tech Talent Strategy, launched on July 16 last year, aimed at bolstering its workforce with qualified individuals from across the border. Here’s a breakdown of the key updates:

Processing Existing Applications

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will process a limited number of H-1B open work permit applications received on July 17, 2023, the day the program reached its cap of 10,000 applications. This includes applications submitted by family members of H-1B holders through the Authorized Paid Representatives Portal on the same day.

No New Applications: It’s important to note that IRCC will not be accepting new applications under this specific program.

Tech Talent Strategy

This program was part of Canada’s Tech Talent Strategy, a temporary immigration initiative launched in July 2023 to attract skilled workers in the technology sector from the United States.

It aimed to address talent shortages by offering open work permits for up to three years to H-1B visa holders and work/study permit options for their families.

New Relief for Dependents

In a separate announcement, IRCC introduced a new temporary public policy on March 18, 2024. This policy waives the processing fees for minor children of H-1B applicants seeking to join their parents in Canada with a study permit.

This aims to support H-1B applicants who were unable to submit a study permit application for their children when they applied for their work permit.

Under this new public policy, IRCC will prioritize the processing of:

• Applications were received on July 17 last year.
• Applications were submitted through the Authorized Paid Representatives Portal on July 17th.
• Work permit applications of accompanying family members.
• Family members of applicants who have already applied for a work permit or intend to apply within the next 12 months.

What this Means for Applicants

If you are an H-1B holder who applied for an open work permit under the July 2023 program, or a dependent seeking to join an applicant in Canada, keep an eye out for updates from IRCC regarding your application status. The fee waiver for minor children is a welcome relief for families seeking to relocate to Canada.

Conclusion

With its welcoming policies and thriving tech ecosystem, Canada continues to beckon skilled professionals from around the world, offering a gateway to promising opportunities and a vibrant multicultural experience.

As the world navigates through evolving immigration landscapes, Canada stands firm in its commitment to embracing diversity and harnessing the potential of global talent.

Looking to Learn More? For further information on Canadian immigration programs and the Tech Talent Strategy, visit the official IRCC website.