{"id":2935,"date":"2025-11-24T15:37:34","date_gmt":"2025-11-24T15:37:34","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/north-bay-on\/?p=2935"},"modified":"2026-04-24T15:39:09","modified_gmt":"2026-04-24T15:39:09","slug":"h-1b-engineers-new-options-as-canada-prepares-fast-track-pathway","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/north-bay-on\/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-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"686\" data-id=\"2938\" src=\"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/north-bay-on\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/11\/options-for-engineers-on-h1b-usa-canada-1024x686.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2938\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/north-bay-on\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/11\/options-for-engineers-on-h1b-usa-canada-1024x686.png 1024w, https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/north-bay-on\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/11\/options-for-engineers-on-h1b-usa-canada-980x656.png 980w, https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/north-bay-on\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/11\/options-for-engineers-on-h1b-usa-canada-480x321.png 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\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>Reach out to us by completing the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/contact-us\/\">Contact Us<\/a>&nbsp;form in order to share your immigration plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/contact-us\/\"><strong>Contact us<\/strong><\/a> <strong>today to book a consultation and find out more!<\/strong><\/h3>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>&nbsp; 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 [&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":"<img class=\"size-full wp-image-1677\" src=\"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2023\/04\/PGWP-300x251-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"251\" \/>\n\nAs of April 6, 2023, those who are currently or formerly on a Post- Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) could be eligible for an 18 month Open Work Permit. Those who wish to apply will have until December 31, 2023.\n\nThe benefit for this Open Work Permit is that it grants the individual the ability to work any job and for any employer in Canada for up to 18 additional months.\n\nAs per IRCC, eligible candidates will be able to:\n<ul>\n \t<li>opt into a simplified process to extend their work permit, or<\/li>\n \t<li>apply to extend their work permit, or<\/li>\n \t<li>apply to restore their status and get a new work permit<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nEven if a candidate is not eligible to opt in, they can still apply for a work permit.\n\nSee <a href=\"https:\/\/t.sidekickopen60.com\/s3t\/c\/5\/f18dQhb0V1-gmb8cp8kBW25MZTD59hl3kW7_k2841CX6NGW35QNyY2PynM_W7vZ0Py8kpgz-f197v5Y04?te=W3R5hFj4cm2zwW4mKLS-3F4FzJW3H34sw3yML2qW1Lyz5B3S-qPyW4fJg0T1GHbGRW4hFZJc4cfK-XW4fJg-S41Y76NW45lYRp49SzG1W3K96C743WgprW3F4FzJ3H34yvW3K8Qz94ff6B5W4cQ9YB49HRfrW3zhs7S41p1cXW49MW8W3K8Qz9W4fdgXX3ZTPLWw4cg7Ws9x12&amp;si=8000000016645336&amp;pi=1b369650-4437-45f0-83d7-642df18d96a2\">IRCC website<\/a> for more information on this opportunity.\n\nIRCC has emailed those who may be eligible for the process to extend their work permit. The message comes from an email that ends in @cic.gc.ca or @notifications.canada.ca. IRCC notes that such individuals must take action before May 20, 2023 and apply before their work permit expires.\n\nTo be eligible for the simplified process, you must:\n\n1)\u00a0Reside in Canada\n\n2)\u00a0Log into your\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/t.sidekickopen60.com\/s3t\/c\/5\/f18dQhb0V1-gmb8cp8kBW25MZTD59hl3kW7_k2841CX6NGW35QNyY2PynM_W7vZ0Py8kpgz-f197v5Y04?te=W3R5hFj4cm2zwW4mKLS-3F4FzJW3H34sw3yML2qW1Lyz5B3S-qPyW4fJg0T1GHbGRW4hFZJc4cfK-XW4fJg-S41Y76NW45lYRp49SzG1W3K96BL45S_3cW3F4G5h43TwfrW3F5tD341Yswq4S6TW1&amp;si=8000000016645336&amp;pi=1b369650-4437-45f0-83d7-642df18d96a2\">IRCC Secure Account<\/a>\u00a0to:\n<ul>\n \t<li>ensure that your mailing address is up to date<\/li>\n \t<li>confirm your passport information is up to date and has an expiration date of June 2025 or later, and<\/li>\n \t<li>opt in for up to an additional 18 months<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nIf you do not have an account, you will need to register for an IRCC Secure Account and link your most recent PGWP application to your account before May 20, 2023.\n\nAbout the Open Work Permit extension:\n\nRecently, Canada\u2019s Immigration Minister, Sean Fraser announced that the IRCC would enable those who are eligible as former or current PGWP holders access to a new Open Work Permit.\n\nTypically a PGWP is non-renewable, and those with an expiring PGWP would have to find another way to remain in the country or leave. However, Fraser indicated the purpose of this initiative will help employers in Canada address their labour shortages and provide PGWP holders time to potentially consider permanent residency. PGWPs allow eligible international graduates to work for up to 3 years after they complete their studies in the country. The ultimate length of the PGWP depends on the length of the completed program of study. \u00a0PGWPs are of high interest as they allow graduates to build their eligibility for permanent residency.\n\nMajority of Canada\u2019s economic class immigration programs reward candidates who have Canadian work experience since Stats Canada shows the experience supports the labour market integration upon gaining permanent residence. This shows why Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Program, and other economic class pathways provide more points and or dedicated streams to those with experience in Canada. In 2022, Canada hosted a record 800,000 international students. Nearly 98,000 PGWP holders transitioned to permanent residence last year, accounting for over 80% of all temporary residents who transitioned to PR.\n\nWhen this announcement was made, IRCC suggested there were over 286,000 PGWP holders in Canada at the end of 2022. The department estimates nearly 127,000 PGWPs will expire in 2023. However approximately 67,000 PGWP holders have already applied for PR, and would not need to apply for a new Open Work Permit.","_et_gb_content_width":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[13],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2935","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\/north-bay-on\/author\/brian\/"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/north-bay-on\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2935","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/north-bay-on\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/north-bay-on\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/north-bay-on\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/17"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/north-bay-on\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2935"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/north-bay-on\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2935\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2944,"href":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/north-bay-on\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2935\/revisions\/2944"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/north-bay-on\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2935"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/north-bay-on\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2935"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/north-bay-on\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2935"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}