Canada launches fast-track immigration pathway for H-1B visa holders, aims to attract skilled professionals and boost innovation

New Delhi: Canada has introduced a new fast-track immigration pathway for professionals holding or who have previously held H-1B visas in the United States. The initiative, announced under the 2025 Federal Budget, is part of the country’s broader plan to attract global talent, strengthen innovation, and fill labour shortages in critical sectors such as healthcare, research, and advanced technology.

The move is seen as a strategic step to position Canada as a preferred destination for skilled workers, especially at a time when the United States has increased H-1B visa fees under President Donald Trump’s administration.

The new pathway will allow H-1B visa holders to apply for Canadian immigration through an accelerated process. It is designed to attract professionals affected by US policy changes and those seeking opportunities in emerging industries. According to CIC News, Prime Minister Mark Carney said that fewer people are likely to get US visas now, and Canada intends to use this as an opportunity to bring in highly skilled and motivated professionals.

'These are people with lots of skills, enterprising, and willing to move to work. It’s an opportunity for Canada,' he said. The initiative is part of the International Talent Attraction Strategy and Action Plan outlined in the 2025 Federal Budget, which combines immigration reform with investments in research and education.

The Canadian government has allocated CA$1.7 billion to attract more than 1,000 international researchers and strengthen the country’s innovation ecosystem. The funding includes: CA$1 billion over 13 years for a new Accelerated Research Chairs initiative. CA$400 million over seven years for research infrastructure through the Canada Foundation for Innovation. CA$133.6 million over three years to help international PhD students and postdoctoral fellows relocate to Canada.

Up to CA$120 million over 12 years to hire international assistant professors. These investments aim to make Canadian universities globally competitive and provide researchers with the resources needed for cutting-edge innovation.

To ensure newcomers can quickly join the workforce, Budget 2025 also proposes creating a Foreign Credential Recognition Action Fund worth CA$97 million over five years starting in 2026-27. The fund will work with provinces and territories to simplify the process of recognising international qualifications, especially in sectors facing severe labour shortages such as healthcare and construction.

Through these coordinated efforts, faster visa processing, targeted funding, and streamlined credential recognition, Canada aims to strengthen its position as a global hub for innovation and skilled talent. Officials said more details on the implementation of the new H-1B immigration pathway will be shared soon. The initiative marks a major step in Canada’s plan to boost research, attract top talent, and drive long-term economic growth.