Overview
The Global Talent Stream (GTS) is designed to help innovative Canadian companies grow by providing a fast-track route to hire specialized foreign talent. It is divided into two categories: Category A for unique and specialized talent referred by a designated partner, and Category B for occupations on the Global Talent Occupations List. The program is part of the Global Skills Strategy, which prioritizes expedited processing for highly skilled workers.
Who qualifies
To qualify, you must have a job offer from a Canadian employer who has been approved to hire through the GTS. Category A requires a referral from a designated partner for unique, high-skill roles. Category B requires the job to be on the official Global Talent Occupations List. Employers must also commit to a Labour Market Benefits Plan (LMBP) that outlines how they will invest in the Canadian labour market.
Application steps
- 1
Step 1: Employer Eligibility
The employer confirms they meet the requirements for Category A (referral) or Category B (occupations list).
- 2
Step 2: Labour Market Benefits Plan
The employer develops and submits a plan outlining their commitments to the Canadian labour market.
- 3
Step 3: LMIA Application
The employer submits the LMIA application to Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) and pays the processing fee.
- 4
Step 4: Receive Positive LMIA
Once the LMIA is approved, the employer provides the positive LMIA number to the foreign worker.
- 5
Step 5: Work Permit Application
The worker applies for an employer-specific work permit through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) using the LMIA number.
Required documents
- Valid passport
- Job offer letter from the Canadian employer
- Positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) number
- Proof of qualifications (e.g., degrees, certificates, or previous employment records)
- Biometrics (if required)
PR, family, language & arrival
Path to longer stay / PR
GTS work experience is considered skilled work experience, which can be used to qualify for permanent residence pathways such as the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) under Express Entry.
Family options
Spouses or common-law partners of skilled workers may be eligible to apply for an open work permit, allowing them to work for most employers in Canada.
Language notes
While there is no specific language test requirement for the GTS work permit itself, the employer must ensure the worker has the necessary language proficiency to perform the job duties.
After arrival
Upon arrival, the worker must comply with the conditions of their work permit, including working only for the employer specified. Employers must continue to fulfill their commitments made in the Labour Market Benefits Plan.
Common pitfalls
- Incomplete Labour Market Benefits Plan
- Incorrect NOC code classification
- Failing to meet the prevailing wage requirements
- Employer not being registered with the CRA
FAQs about Global Talent Stream (GTS)
Who is the Global Talent Stream (GTS) for?+
Highly skilled foreign workers in specific tech and STEM occupations, or those with unique and specialized talent, who have received a job offer from an eligible Canadian employer.
What are the eligibility requirements for Global Talent Stream (GTS)?+
To qualify, you must have a job offer from a Canadian employer who has been approved to hire through the GTS. Category A requires a referral from a designated partner for unique, high-skill roles. Category B requires the job to be on the official Global Talent Occupations List. Employers must also commit to a Labour Market Benefits Plan (LMBP) that outlines how they will invest in the Canadian labour market.
How much does the Global Talent Stream (GTS) cost?+
Typical fees listed for Global Talent Stream (GTS): Employer LMIA fee: $1,000 CAD per position. Worker work permit fee: ~$155 CAD (plus $85 CAD for biometrics if applicable).. Always confirm on the official government site.
How long does Global Talent Stream (GTS) processing take?+
ImmigraPath currently lists processing time as: LMIA (employer): ~10-12 business days; Work permit (worker): ~2 weeks (under Global Skills Strategy)..
How long can I stay on the Global Talent Stream (GTS)?+
Determined by the work permit duration, which is based on the employment contract; may lead to permanent residence through programs like Express Entry.
Can I work on the Global Talent Stream (GTS)?+
Employer-specific work permit; the applicant is authorized to work only for the sponsoring employer. Spouses may be eligible for an open work permit.
Does Global Talent Stream (GTS) lead to permanent residence in Canada?+
GTS work experience is considered skilled work experience, which can be used to qualify for permanent residence pathways such as the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) under Express Entry.
What are common mistakes with Global Talent Stream (GTS)?+
Incomplete Labour Market Benefits Plan Incorrect NOC code classification Failing to meet the prevailing wage requirements