The Canadian government has introduced a fast-track immigration program targeting skilled professionals currently holding US H-1B visas. This initiative is part of Canada’s 2025 federal budget and aims to attract global talent, especially as the United States imposes stricter visa regulations, including a $100,000 one-time fee for new H-1B applications.
This policy shift benefits Indian professionals, many of whom hold H-1B visas and face job uncertainties in the US as companies prioritize hiring American citizens following past administrative directives. Canada’s new programme is designed to address shortages in industries such as healthcare, technology, and research, while also boosting nationwide innovation efforts.
As part of its broader International Talent Attraction Strategy, Canada is committing up to CA $1.7 billion to recruit more than 1,000 international researchers. Additional budget allocations include CA $1 billion over 13 years for the Accelerated Research Chairs programme, CA $400 million over seven years for research infrastructure, and CA $133.6 million over three years to support international PhD students and post-doctoral fellows. Another CA $120 million will help universities recruit global assistant professors over 12 years.
To further support skilled professionals, the Canadian government plans to launch a CA $97 million Foreign Credential Recognition Action Fund, beginning in 2026. This fund will help fast-track the integration of foreign-trained professionals, with a focus on the healthcare and construction sectors.
With these moves, Canada is positioning itself as a prime destination for global talent, especially as the US tightens immigration policies. The shift underscores growing global competition for highly skilled workers in an innovation-driven economy.
