The Canadian government initiated the tech talent strategy program on 16th July 2023 for H1-B Visa holders. IRCC Canada issues an Open Work Permit (OWP) for the eligible applicants. US H1-B holders can utilize this opportunity and migrate to Canada for enhanced career opportunities. Along with the H1-B holder, their family members can also migrate to Canada. Canada OWP holders can work in Canada for up to 3 years immediately. Later, OWP holders can apply for the Canadian PR to settle in Canada.
Under the tech talent strategy program, Canada has invited 10,000 US H1-B visa holders until now. The Canadian government plans to invite more talented and skilled professionals to the country for empowerment and economic growth. Also, immigrants can have a large scope for career expansion in advanced and developing sectors. The Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) ensures safety and security for immigrants for long-term assurance in Canada. The IRCC is giving hope to H1-B Visa holders for their jobs and settlement in Canada, which they are currently in the United States.
The IRCC offers IV pillars for US H1-B holders for endurance, safety, and security in Canada.
Pillar 1: H1-B visa holders can immediately get a 3-year open work permit in Canada. They can move along with their family.
Pillar 2: International mobility program for innovation stream.
Pillar 3: Canada is the most advanced country with digital travelers.
Pillar 4: Empowering existing programs for skilled workers.
Note: Applicants holding H1-B visa validity and not residing in USA was also mentioned. Check the IRCC website for the confirmation regarding the same.
Here is the comparison between US H1-B and Canada H1-B for your reference.
Factors |
H-1B’s in the U.S. |
U.S. H-1B’s in Canada |
Status |
Temporary work visa for skilled workers |
Acquire Permanent residency status |
Country |
United States |
Canada |
Duration |
Up to 3 years initially, can be extended up to 6 years |
Permanent residency does not expire, but a PR card needs to be renewed every 5 years. |
Future |
Uncertain. |
Promising Future, especially for H-1B’s. |
Eligibility |
Employer sponsorship and job offer required |
67 points in Canada’s points grid. Job offer is NOT required. |
Job Restrictions |
Tied to a specific employer and job position |
Free to work for any employer in any occupation |
Dependents |
Spouses and unmarried children can get H-4 visas |
Spouses/common-law partners and dependent children can also get PR. |
Education for Children |
Education is affordable |
Education is FREE. |
Path to Citizenship |
Can lead to a Green Card and eventual citizenship |
Eligible to apply for Canadian citizenship after 3 years. |
Citizenship Timeline |
Takes several years |
Takes 3-5 years |
Healthcare |
Access to a universal healthcare system. |
Free Healthcare for you and your family members. |
Geographic Flexibility |
Limited to working for the sponsoring employer and location |
Live and work anywhere in Canada under any employer. |
Cost |
7000$ – 9000$ |
2000$ – 2,300$ |
Dependence on Job |
Loss of employment can lead to visa expiration and potential deportation. |
Independent of job, unless PR card renewal requirements are not met. No deportation. |
Canada invites US immigrants with H1-B visas with its open work permit program. This program allows employers to stay in Canada for 3 years. The US H1-B holders can move to Canada along with their dependents. OWP holders can work with any employer and anywhere in Canada. Explore an immense number of opportunities in many fields in Canada with OWP.
Work anywhere in Canada: Immigrants can get unlimited job opportunities without sponsors.
Free Education for your children: Free education for children of OWP holders.
Spouses are allowed to work in Canada: Your spouse can work full-time in Canada without any restrictions.
Career building in Canada: You can settle in Canada along with your family. This is a life-changing opportunity to settle and earn in Canada. Personal development and career growth are possible with the Canada OWP.
The processing for open work permit takes 0-2 months for US H1-B holders.
Fees |
$CAN |
Applicant work permit |
155 |
Biometrics |
85 |
Spouse open work permit |
100 |
Spouse Biometrics |
85 |
Children |
150 |
If you dream of a great take-off to Canada with exceptional opportunities, Y-Axis is here to help you. Check your eligibility and evaluate your profile with us.
Utilize this fantastic opportunity and settle in Canada along with your family. Canada H1-B holders can get many opportunities like excellent career prospects, family benefits, and free education for children.
Even if you are not an H1-B Visa holder planning to move to Canada, contact us for required assistance.