A new programme introduced by Canada to entice IT talent to the nation is expected to mostly benefit Indians, who make up about 75% of H1-B visa holders in the United States.

Holders with US H1-B visas are permitted to reside and work in Canada for three years in the open work permit stream. In addition, family members of accepted applicants will be given the choice of enrolling in academic programmes or looking for jobs within the nation.

“Large corporations with operations in both Canada and the US employ thousands of people in high-tech industries, and many of them have H1-B visas for specialist occupations. The Canadian government stated in a release earlier this month that holders of H1-B specialised occupation visas in the US as well as their accompanying immediate family members will be eligible to seek to move to Canada as of July 16, 2023.

Holders of H1-B visas will be able to choose any employer in Canada to work for under this scheme. In addition, their spouses and dependents will be qualified to apply for a temporary residence visa, enabling them to get the necessary employment or study permits.

Technology businesses frequently use H1-B visas to acquire foreign workers for specialist vocations, adding to their workforce, especially from nations like India and China. The deliberate initiative by Canada aims to recruit people looking for new chances in emerging technologies by capitalising on the current environment of significant layoffs in the US tech industry.

The open work permit stream for Canadians with US H1-B visas will be open for a year or until 10,000 applications have been submitted, whichever comes first. Canada wants to strengthen its position in the international technological scene and establish a centre for innovation and knowledge by creating a welcoming environment for foreign talent.