The United States recently announced a US $100,000 fee for new H-1B visa applications, a change that has drawn global attention across the technology and business communities.
In response, Canada has indicated renewed interest in welcoming highly skilled professionals, particularly those currently living and working in the United States on H-1B visas.
Canada’s Direction: Building on Prior Success
In 2023, Canada introduced a special immigration stream for U.S.-based H-1B visa holders, allowing them to apply for open work permits valid for up to three years.
The initiative was immensely successful — all 10,000 spots were filled in less than 24 hours, underscoring the strong demand among skilled professionals seeking stable immigration options in North America.
Now, in 2025, the Canadian government has expressed interest in developing new opportunities for foreign tech talent affected by recent U.S. policy changes.
While no new program has been formally announced, officials have stated that Canada aims to provide a “clear path” for skilled workers who wish to contribute to its innovation economy.
Why Canada’s Approach Matters
As the global competition for talent intensifies, Canada continues to emphasize:
- Predictable immigration pathways;
- Transparent and merit-based systems;
- Access to permanent residence for qualified professionals; and
- Strong support for families, including open work and study options.
For U.S.-based H-1B workers — particularly in the technology sector — Canada represents a nearby and stable alternative that values professional expertise and offers long-term residence potential.
Opportunities for Employers and Professionals
Employers operating in the U.S. may explore relocating or expanding teams to Canada’s leading innovation centers such as Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal, leveraging programs like:
- The Global Talent Stream for expedited work permits;
- Express Entry, which prioritizes STEM occupations; and
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) that target in-demand skill sets.
For workers, this evolving policy landscape presents new avenues to secure meaningful employment and permanent residence in a country recognized for its openness to global talent.
NPZ Law Group’s Perspective
At VISASERVE, our U.S. and Canadian Immigration Teams monitor these developments closely to guide clients through strategic planning and compliance.
We assist:
- H-1B professionals evaluating transition options to Canada;
- Employers managing cross-border workforce planning; and
- Families pursuing permanent residence in both countries.
Our attorneys—licensed in the United States and Canada—provide integrated solutions that support smooth, lawful, and efficient immigration outcomes.
FAQ
Q1: Why is Canada showing renewed interest in H-1B professionals?
Because of recent U.S. policy changes, Canada aims to attract highly skilled workers seeking stable immigration opportunities in North America.
Q2: What happened with the previous H-1B Open Work Permit Program?
Launched in 2023, it allowed 10,000 U.S.-based H-1B visa holders to obtain open work permits for three years. It was fully subscribed within a day.
Q3: Has Canada launched a new H-1B-focused program?
Not yet. The government has expressed interest in developing a new initiative, but official details are still pending.
Q4: How can NPZ Law Group help?
Our team provides end-to-end guidance on U.S. and Canadian immigration matters, including H-1B transitions, work-permit strategies, and permanent residence planning.
Contact NPZ Law Group Today
If you are an H-1B professional or employer considering cross-border immigration options, contact our team for personalized guidance.
Contact Information
If you or your family members have any questions about how immigration and nationality laws in the United States may affect you, or if you want to access additional information about immigration and nationality laws in the United States or Canada, please do not hesitate to contact the immigration and nationality lawyers at NPZ Law Group. You can reach us by emailing info@visaserve.com or by calling us at 201-670-0006 extension 104. We also invite you to visit our website at www.visaserve.com for more information.