IRCC Launches New LMIA-Exempt Work Permit for Select Tech Companies in Canada

The Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has rolled out a new work permit initiative as part of the Innovation Stream under the International Mobility Program (IMP). This is a key component of Canada’s Tech Talent Strategy, aimed at attracting skilled foreign professionals to bolster the country’s position as a global tech leader.

Through the Global Hypergrowth Project, skilled workers can now apply for an employer-specific work permit if they secure a job offer from one of the eight participating tech companies identified as leaders and innovators in the industry. The new permit will be exempt from the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) requirement, which typically evaluates the impact of hiring foreign workers on the Canadian job market.

To be eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  1. A job offer from an employer participating in the Global Hypergrowth Project.
  2. Employment in a high-skilled position within National Occupational Classification (NOC) categories TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3.
  3. Possess the necessary education and experience for the job they have been offered.

Eligible applicants, whether in Canada or abroad, may also benefit from faster processing times if their occupation falls within NOC categories TEER 0 or 1.

Employers wishing to hire under this stream must submit an offer of employment, pay a $230 CAD compliance fee, and provide the employee with an offer of employment number.

The selected employers for this initiative include prominent companies like Ada Support Inc., AlayaCare, CellCarta, and Clarius Mobile Health, all of which are recognized for their innovative contributions to AI, healthcare, and precision medicine.

This new work permit stream is expected to streamline the hiring of top tech talent, contributing to the growth and innovation of Canada’s tech sector.

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