Maple News reports that Canada is gearing up to launch a new immigration pathway targeting H-1B visa holders in the United States. This initiative follows the overwhelming success of a similar program in 2023, which saw 10,000 applications submitted in just two days. For those eager to take advantage of the new opportunity, having the right documents prepared in advance will be crucial.
Launched by the Canadian federal government, the upcoming program is part of a broader strategy unveiled in the 2025 federal budget to attract global talent amid ongoing labor shortages. The program aims to bring highly skilled professionals from sectors such as healthcare, advanced technology, and research to Canada by offering a streamlined work permit process.
While the exact opening date for the new stream has not been officially announced, the government has indicated that it will launch “in the coming months.” Based on the previous rollout, experts suggest that applicants should prepare now to avoid missing out once the intake window opens.
To qualify, applicants will likely need documents proving their current H-1B status. This includes a copy of their H-1B visa, the U.S. Form I-797/I-797B Notice of Action (confirming the visa approval), and proof of residency in the United States. Acceptable evidence of U.S. residence can include a Form I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record), a recent utility bill, or a U.S. income tax return.
In addition to immigration status documents, applicants must also have valid proof of identity. Though the requirements for the upcoming program haven’t been finalized, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) typically requires essential identification documents such as a valid passport or government-issued ID.
The accelerated H-1B pathway is part of Canada’s broader Tech Talent Strategy, which also includes measures to retain international graduates and expand immigration options for digital nomads and remote workers. The goal is to make Canada even more attractive to global professionals who are looking for long-term employment stability and quality of life.
If this new program follows past trends, demand will greatly exceed the available spots. For that reason, ensuring that all necessary paperwork is accurate and available can make the difference between successfully relocating to Canada or missing the opportunity entirely.
Maple News encourages interested individuals to stay informed about updates from IRCC and be ready to submit their applications as soon as the program opens.