The Biden administration has announced plans to issue an additional 64,716 H-2B seasonal worker visas for the fiscal year 2025. These visas are supplemental to the 66,000 annual H-2
Quebec announced the reopening of three targeted immigration pilot programs, effective January 13, 2025, aimed at addressing labor shortages in critical sectors. These programs offer pathways to Canadian permanent residence for qualified workers in specific industries.
Overview of the Reopened Pilot Programs
The three pilot programs are:
- Permanent Immigration Pilot Program for Food Processing Workers (PP TA): Designed to attract skilled individuals in the food and beverage manufacturing sectors, this program addresses labor needs in industries classified under NAICS 311 and 3121. Eligible occupations include industrial butchers, food processing laborers, and related roles.
- Permanent Immigration Pilot Program for Beneficiary Attendants (PP PAB): Aimed at healthcare workers, particularly those providing assistance to patients, this program seeks to fill essential roles within Quebec’s healthcare system. It includes two components: the work component and the work-study component, each with specific eligibility criteria.
- Permanent Immigration Pilot Program for Workers in the Artificial Intelligence, Information Technology, and Visual Effects Sectors (PP IA/TI-EV): This program targets professionals in AI, IT, and visual effects, sectors experiencing significant growth and demand in Quebec. The program is divided into two components, each accepting a maximum of 150 applications in the Francisation profile.
Application Quotas and Deadlines
Each program will accept up to 600 applications between January 13 and December 31, 2025. For the PP IA/TI-EV program, the 600 applications are equally divided between the Artificial Intelligence and the Information Technology and Visual Effects components. These pilot programs are set to expire on January 1, 2026.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet specific criteria, including:
- Age: 18 years or older.
- Intention to Settle: A genuine intention to reside and work in Quebec.
- Work Experience: Relevant full-time work experience in the targeted sector within a specified timeframe.
- French Language Proficiency: Demonstrated proficiency in spoken French at level 7 on the Quebec Scale of Competency Levels or its equivalent.
- Financial Independence: Proof of financial self-sufficiency.
Implications for Canadian Immigration
The reopening of these pilot programs underscores Quebec’s commitment to attracting skilled workers in sectors vital to its economy. By offering pathways to permanent residence, Quebec aims to fill labor shortages and promote economic growth. Prospective immigrants with experience in these fields may find these programs to be viable options for Canadian immigration.
For detailed information on eligibility and application procedures, contact Pilkington Immigration. We can help you navigate the process.
B visas mandated by Congress, marking the third consecutive year that U.S. employers will have access to all available visas to meet seasonal labor demands. This expansion offers significant opportunities for individuals seeking temporary work in the United States while helping employers meet workforce needs during peak seasons.
The supplemental visas are divided into two categories to address specific labor demands:
1. 20,000 visas for workers from designated countries: These are reserved for individuals from Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Haiti, Colombia, Ecuador, and Costa Rica. This allocation aims to provide job opportunities to workers from countries with strong migration ties to the United States.
2. 44,716 visas for returning workers: These visas are designated for individuals who have held H-2B status in one of the past three fiscal years, ensuring experienced workers can return to meet critical labor needs.
To align with seasonal labor requirements, the supplemental visas will be allocated throughout the fiscal year, with a significant number reserved for the peak summer season when industries like hospitality, landscaping, and construction face heightened demand. This flexibility ensures employers can access the workers they need when they need them most, helping to sustain their businesses and meet customer expectations.
For individuals seeking a U.S. work permit through the H-2B visa program, this expansion means more opportunities to secure temporary employment in a variety of industries. However, applying for an H-2B visa involves navigating a complex process with stringent eligibility and documentation requirements. Ensuring your application is complete and accurate is critical to increasing your chances of approval.
At Pilkington Immigration, we specialize in assisting individuals with H-2B visa applications. Our experienced consultants can guide you through the process, ensuring your application is prepared to the highest standards and adheres to all regulations. Whether you are applying for the first time or as a returning worker, we are here to help you take advantage of these expanded opportunities.
Contact Pilkington Immigration today to learn how we can assist you in applying for a U.S. work permit through the H-2B visa program and help you achieve your temporary employment goals in the United States.