The US, following President Donald Trump’s order, has urged companies to focus on employing American citizens.
The Canadian government has unveiled a new expedited immigration program for US H-1B visa holders. The initiative, included in Canada’s 2025 federal budget, seeks to draw high-skilled workers impacted by recent adjustments in US immigration laws.
As per a report from CIC News, this effort is a component of Canada’s broader International Talent Attraction Strategy aimed at addressing labor shortages in critical sectors and enhancing national innovation.
This policy is introduced during a period when numerous Indian workers in the US are encountering increasing doubts regarding their employment. The US, following President Donald Trump’s order, has urged companies to focus on employing American citizens.
Furthermore, the updated US immigration policy introduces a one-time charge of about $100,000 (roughly Rs 88 lakh) for new H-1B visa applications, a modification that may complicate and increase costs for foreign workers wishing to remain in the country.
Recognizing this change, Canada has identified a significant chance to draw in the same group of skilled individuals who might now seek options beyond the US. The H-1B visa is notably favored by technology professionals, engineers, and IT specialists, with many of its holders being of Indian descent.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has recently stated that his government is focused on developing strategies to attract these professionals to Canada. “Fewer H-1B visa holders will receive visas in the US.”
“These individuals possess valuable skills and represent a chance for Canada,” Carney remarked in September. “We’ll present an offering shortly,” he suggested, alluding to the forthcoming immigration route.
With this initiative, Ottawa aims to enhance its technology and innovation sectors by providing foreign experts, particularly those with experience in the US, an easier route to live and work in Canada.
