Maple News reports that highly skilled international professionals working in key tech and engineering occupations may qualify for fast-tracked work permits through Canada’s Global Talent Stream (GTS). As part of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), the GTS is designed to help Canadian employers hire top talent from abroad to fill positions in high-demand fields.
The GTS features two distinct categories: Category A for employers bringing in unique or specialized talent, and Category B for hiring individuals in pre-approved, in-demand occupations. Under Category B, most eligible work permit applications are processed within just two weeks by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), significantly reducing wait times.
To be eligible, applicants must have a valid job offer from a Canadian employer for one of the 22 designated roles. These positions span a range of fields—especially within the STEM sector (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics)—and include software engineers, data scientists, cybersecurity specialists, civil and electrical engineers, and more.
Here are some of the key occupations that qualify for expedited processing under Category B:
– Computer and information systems managers
– Software engineers and developers
– Civil, electrical, and aerospace engineers
– Data scientists and statisticians
– Web designers and developers
– Cybersecurity specialists
– Visual effects and video game project managers
Each occupation is aligned with a specific National Occupation Classification (NOC) code. It’s essential that both employers and foreign workers ensure that the job offer and duties match the designated NOC description.
In addition to meeting the job-specific GTS requirements, applicants must also satisfy Canada’s general admissibility and work permit eligibility criteria, such as background checks and proof of qualifications.
Notably, many of these GTS-eligible roles also align with Canada’s Express Entry category-based selection for STEM candidates. Individuals working in this category could be invited to apply for permanent residence, especially if they have at least six months of full-time, continuous work experience in a qualifying occupation.
The combination of fast-tracked work permits and career pathways to permanent residency makes the GTS one of Canada’s most attractive options for international talent in tech and innovation sectors.