As the U.S. makes it harder to hire foreign tech workers, Canada’s Global Talent Stream stands out as the best alternative for employers and skilled workers.

On September 19, President Trump announced a $100,000 USD government fee for H-1B petitions. This applies to the 2026 lottery and all new H-1B petitions submitted after that date.

For years, the U.S. has been the top destination for international tech professionals through the H-1B visa program. However, with higher costs, more risks and growing uncertainty, many employers are rethinking their options and skilled workers are now looking north, specifically to Canada’s Global Talent Steam (GTS).

Why Canada’s Global Talent Stream Stands Out

No immigration pathway is ever simple, but the GTS offers clear advantages over the H1-B program:

• Lower costs: Canadian Employers pay $1,000 CAD per worker.
• Processing: The GTS can be approved within two weeks.
• No Lottery: If the role qualifies, the application moves forward.
• Predictability: Employers and workers know where they stand.

 

The Global Talent Stream is an expedited Labour Marker Impact Assessment (LMIA) and part of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program.  This type of LMIA does not require extensive advertisement, as long as the employer can show efforts to hire from the local Canadian pool of candidates.  The GTS program is suitable for companies that are innovative and require highly unique and specialized talent to help companies scale up and grow or skilled IT workers in a particular predetermined list of occupations.  

 

While the GTS does not directly grant permanent residency, it serves as a strong entry point. Many skilled workers can later secure Canadian Permanent Residency through programs like Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs, which are options the U.S. does not offer.

For employers, this makes hiring simpler and more affordable. For skilled workers, it provides stability and realistic long-term opportunity.

Canadian Cities Competing with Silicon Valley

Aside from immigration policies, Canadian cities are growing as places where tech workers and companies can thrive.

• Toronto has become one of North America’s fastest growing tech hubs.
• Vancouver is internationally recognized in video games, VFX, and clean tech.
• Montreal is a world leader in AI and machine learning.
• Waterloo, Ottawa, and Calgary are attracting new companies, startups, and investment every year.

Together, these cities are positioning Canada as serious competitors to Silicon Valley and offering skilled workers and employers more options.

The Reality and The Opportunity

While Canada’s Global Talent Stream offers clear advantages, it is not an “easy” pathway. Employers must meet strict program requirements, and skilled workers must also qualify.

Every application requires careful strategy, thorough preparation, and long-term planning. This is where experienced Canadian legal guidance makes all the difference. View more details on our site here.

At Pilkington Law Firm, we work with employers and skilled workers who qualify under Canada’s programs. Our team helps you navigate the process with confidence and clarity.

Contact us today to book a consultation and find out if you’re eligible under the Global Talent Stream.