{"id":2946,"date":"2025-11-24T13:19:22","date_gmt":"2025-11-24T13:19:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/?p=2946"},"modified":"2026-04-24T13:21:57","modified_gmt":"2026-04-24T13:21:57","slug":"h-1b-engineers-new-options-as-canada-prepares-fast-track-pathway","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/h-1b-engineers-new-options-as-canada-prepares-fast-track-pathway\/","title":{"rendered":"H-1B Engineers: New Options as Canada Prepares Fast Track Pathway"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1280\" height=\"857\" src=\"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/15\/2025\/11\/options-for-engineers-on-h1b-usa-canada-1.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2951\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/15\/2025\/11\/options-for-engineers-on-h1b-usa-canada-1.png 1280w, https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/15\/2025\/11\/options-for-engineers-on-h1b-usa-canada-1-980x656.png 980w, https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/15\/2025\/11\/options-for-engineers-on-h1b-usa-canada-1-480x321.png 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1280px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><em>The U.S.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/us-immigration\/non-immigrant-work-visas\/h1b-visa\/\">H-1B<\/a>&nbsp;program is becoming more expensive and restrictive, and engineers are feeling the pressure.<\/em><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>With higher filing fees, stricter compliance rules, and increased penalties for employers, many engineers in the United States are reconsidering how achievable their long-term plans are under the H-1B system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Engineers who want to stay in the U.S. should begin gathering their documents and preparing early to avoid delays, added costs, or unexpected challenges as the new rules take effect.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>At the same time, Canada has announced plans to introduce a fast-track pathway for H-1B holders, offering an open work permit and a clearer route to permanent residency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As both systems move in different directions, engineering talent is shifting its strategy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>More engineers are choosing Canada first, using its work permits and permanent residency pathways to secure family stability, expanded career opportunities, and career freedom.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Employers are adjusting as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Rising sponsorship costs and stricter compliance demands are pushing many U.S. engineering firms and tech companies to look north, where Canada offers a strong and growing pool of highly skilled talent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Hiring workers already based in Canada reduces risk and still helps with future cross border transfers if needed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The timing is important, because Canada is offering stability exactly when many engineers are looking for it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Canada\u2019s Fast Track H-1B Pathway Is Expected to Offer<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>An open work permit for engineers on H-1B status in the United States<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Work authorization for spouses and study permits for dependent children<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Clear pathways to Canadian permanent residency through Express Entry and PNP<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Freedom from employer dependency and flexibility to change roles or industries<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">For International Engineers on H-1B: What to Expect<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Many internationally trained engineers in the U.S. are rethinking their future in the country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Rising H-1B fees and increased scrutiny have only added to that pressure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Canada\u2019s upcoming fast track pathway aims to offer engineers an additional option with more predictability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Under the expected framework, engineers would be able to secure an open work permit, relocate with their families, and work toward permanent residency through a transparent, points-based system that recognizes their education, experience, and technical background.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This has led to a growing trend: engineers choosing to establish themselves in Canada first, gain PR, and then consider U.S. opportunities later from a more secure position.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">For Canadian Engineers on H-1B: What to Consider<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Canadian engineers working in the U.S. under H-1B status are also affected by rising filing fees and tighter compliance requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Those who want to remain in the United States should begin preparing early, gather their documentation, and be ready for a renewal process that may become more demanding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Delays, added costs, and stricter scrutiny are expected to make H-1B renewals more complex.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For those who no longer wish to maintain H-1B status, returning to Canada remains a solid option. Canada continues to have a strong demand for experienced engineers along with a growing innovation economy across multiple provinces.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How Pilkington Immigration Law Firm Can Help<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>With offices in both&nbsp;<strong>the United States and Canada<\/strong>, Pilkington Immigration Law Firm supports clients navigating cross border immigration systems and the realities of international engineering careers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Our team is well positioned to assist international engineers on H-1B status, as well as Canadian engineers working in the U.S., understand their options and plan their next steps with confidence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Whether you intend to continue your career in the United States, transition to Canada, or explore both pathways at the same time, Pilkington Immigration Law Firm provides the experience and guidance needed to make informed and timely decisions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/contact-us\/\">Contact us<\/a> today to book a consultation and find out more!<\/strong><\/h3>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The U.S.&nbsp;H-1B&nbsp;program is becoming more expensive and restrictive, and engineers are feeling the pressure. With higher filing fees, stricter compliance rules, and increased penalties for employers, many engineers in the United States are reconsidering how achievable their long-term plans are under the H-1B system. Engineers who want to stay in the U.S. should begin gathering [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":17,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"off","_et_pb_old_content":"<!-- wp:image {\"lightbox\":{\"enabled\":false},\"id\":2706,\"sizeSlug\":\"full\",\"linkDestination\":\"custom\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img src=\"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/15\/2025\/02\/feb2.jpg\" alt=\"Three Canadian Flags flying outside a tall office building.\" class=\"wp-image-2706\"\/><\/figure>\n<!-- \/wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Registration Requirement for Foreign Nationals \u2013 Effective April 11, 2025<\/strong><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Starting April 11, 2025, all foreign nationals who meet certain criteria must register with the U.S. government. This would apply to many of the snowbird travelers to the U.S. who typically spend time in southern United States in the winter months. Failure to comply may result in fines and\/or imprisonment. If registration is required, individuals must carry proof of registration at all times and present it to law enforcement if requested. Below provides general information to help determine if registration is necessary and how to register. General information can be found on the USCIS website:&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.uscis.gov\/alienregistration\">https:\/\/www.uscis.gov\/alienregistration<\/a>. For specific questions, we recommend consulting an attorney, we are happy to help!<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>You may wish to book a consultation with our Pilkington Immigration expert by clicking below.<\/strong><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/meetings.hubspot.com\/margaret-wilson\/paid-zoom-meeting-margaret-wilson\"><strong>Book a Consultation<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Am I Required to Register?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Q: Will you be in the U.S. for 30 days or more?<\/strong><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Yes:<\/strong>\u00a0You must register. Continue to the next question.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>No:<\/strong>\u00a0You do not need to register. Consult an attorney if you have further questions.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Q: Are you 14 years of age or older?<\/strong><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Yes:<\/strong>\u00a0You must register.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>No:<\/strong>\u00a0Your parent or legal guardian is responsible for registering you.<br>You must re-register within 30 days of turning 14.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How Do I Register?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Q: Do you have any of the following valid documents after entering the U.S.?<\/strong><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"ordered\":true,\"start\":1} -->\n<ol start=\"1\" class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>I-94 (<a href=\"https:\/\/i94.cbp.dhs.gov\/home\">https:\/\/i94.cbp.dhs.gov\/home<\/a>)<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Border Crossing Card<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Notice to Appear in Immigration Court (NTA)<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>I-551 Stamp or Green Card (LPR card)<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>I-765 EAD<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Admission or parole stamp in your passport<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ol>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Yes:<\/strong>\u00a0You are already registered.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>No:<\/strong>\u00a0You must complete Form G-325R via your\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/my.uscis.gov\/\">https:\/\/my.uscis.gov\/<\/a>\u00a0account.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Biometrics Appointment<\/strong><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>If you register by submitting Form G-325R, you will be scheduled for a Biometrics Appointment. You are not considered fully registered until you complete this appointment. Watch for your Biometrics Appointment Notice, which should be sent to your&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/my.uscis.gov\/\">https:\/\/my.uscis.gov\/<\/a>&nbsp;account.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Canadian citizens entering as visitors under the visa exemption rule do not need to attend a biometrics appointment. Registration will be considered complete once Form G-325R is submitted.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Individuals who entered the U.S. under the Jay Treaty are exempt from the registration requirement.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What Is Considered Proof of Registration?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Proof of registration may include, but is not limited to, the following:<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"ordered\":true,\"start\":1} -->\n<ol start=\"1\" class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>I-94<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Border Crossing Card<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Notice to Appear in Immigration Court<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>I-551 Stamp or Green Card<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>I-765 EAD<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Admission or parole stamp<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Certificate of Registration or Alien Registration Receipt Card (available through your myUSCIS account after completing Form G-325R)<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ol>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>If you are over 18, you must carry proof of registration at all times. You should consult an attorney to ensure that you are properly registered and have the correct proof of registration.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Penalties for Non-Compliance<\/strong><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Failure to carry proof of registration:<\/strong>\u00a0A misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $5,000, up to 30 days in prison, or both.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Failure to register:<\/strong>\u00a0A fine of up to $5,000, up to 6 months in prison, or both.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Fraudulent statements on a registration:<\/strong>\u00a0Criminal prosecution and possible deportation upon conviction.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Parents:<\/strong>\u00a0Responsible for registering children under 14 and may face penalties for non-compliance.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>The registration requirement and proof of registration may vary depending on individual circumstances. It is important for snowbirds and visitors alike to properly understand the requirements of this new policy. If your questions are not addressed in this guide, consult an immigration attorney. While we assist clients with the registration process, please note that USCIS does not allow attorneys to access Form G-325R.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Are you a snowbird looking for assistance with this new registration process?&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pilkington Immigration<\/a>&nbsp;can ease the stress of registration. Schedule a consult today to discuss our fees and services!<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/meetings.hubspot.com\/margaret-wilson\/paid-zoom-meeting-margaret-wilson\"><strong>Book a Consultation<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->","_et_gb_content_width":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[13],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2946","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-news-events"],"aioseo_notices":[],"featured_image_src":null,"featured_image_src_square":null,"author_info":{"display_name":"Staff","author_link":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/author\/brian\/"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2946","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/17"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2946"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2946\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2953,"href":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2946\/revisions\/2953"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2946"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2946"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2946"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}