Global Talent Stream (GTS) was created to make it easier for Canadian businesses to hire highly talented overseas workers. The Global Skills Strategy (GTS) was introduced on June 12, 2017, with the goal of assisting forward-thinking companies in their search for specialized people to improve their operations and competitiveness in the global market.
With the help of this program, skilled workers can start working in Canada much faster by allowing work permits and visas to be processed more quickly.
Understanding the Global Talent Stream (GTS)
When Canadian workers are unavailable, the Global labour Stream is intended to assist Canadian firms in promptly gaining access to highly trained international labour.
People with specialized talents in particular occupations can expedite the processing of their work permits with the help of this IRCC global talent stream initiative.
Among the GTS work permit's main advantages are:
- Applications for work permits are typically processed in two weeks.
- Streamlined Process for Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)
- Adaptable hiring standards from Canadian employers
- The Government of Canada is providing dedicated support.
Key Details:
Feature | Global Talent Stream |
---|---|
Who uses it | Employers, not provinces |
Purpose | Fast-track hiring of foreign skilled workers |
Control | Managed by federal government (ESDC) |
Invitation process | No invitations; employers apply to hire |
Provincial involvement | Indirect – job must usually be based in Canada, but no PNP draw involved |
Work permit speed | As fast as 2 weeks |
Steps Included In Global Talent Stream Process

An essential element is Labour Market Benefits Plan (LMBP), which describes how the company will strengthen the Canadian labour market by investing more in training, creating jobs, or transferring skills.
Occupations List: Category A & B
Occupations under Global Talent Stream is divided into two main categories:
- Category A:For employers referred by designated partners who are hiring individuals with unique and specialized talent.
- Category B:For employers hiring highly skilled workers in specific in-demand occupations listed under the Global Talent Occupation List.
Global Talent Occupation List – Category A & B
Category | Occupation Title | NOC Code |
---|---|---|
A | Unique and specialized talent (non-standard roles) | Varies |
B | Computer and Information Systems Managers | 20012 |
Software Engineers and Designers | 21231 | |
Information Systems Analysts and Consultants | 21222 | |
Computer Programmers and Interactive Media Developers | 21230 | |
Web Designers and Developers | 21233 | |
Database Analysts and Data Administrators | 21223 | |
Digital Media Designers | 52120 | |
Mathematicians, Statisticians, and Actuaries | 21210 | |
Electrical and Electronics Engineers | 21310 | |
Civil Engineers | 21300 | |
Mechanical Engineers | 21301 |
Costs associated with Canada's Global Talent Stream (GTS)
Cost Type |
Amount (CAD) |
Paid By |
Notes |
Global Talent Stream Application Fee |
$1,000 |
Employer |
Per position |
Employer Compliance Fee |
$230 |
Employer |
Per work permit application |
Work Permit Application Fee |
$155 |
Employee |
Paid when applying for the work permit |
Biometrics Fee |
$85 |
Employee |
One-time fee for most applicants |
Open Work Permit for Spouse/Partner |
$255 |
Employee's spouse/partner |
If applicable |
Study Permit for Dependent Children |
$150 |
Employee |
Per child, if applicable |
Note: An overview of the possible expenses related to the GTS procedure is given in this table. Actual expenses could differ depending on particular circumstances and modifications to government rules or regulations.
The Future of the Global Talent Stream
As long as Canada is a worldwide center of innovation, the global talent stream process is likely to evolve. Potential future developments include the following:
- The growth of the Global Talent Occupations List
- Combining economic immigration efforts with other ones
- Enhanced monitoring and reporting mechanisms to ensure the program's integrity
Tips for a Successful GTS Application
The following suggested practices should be considered by overseas workers and enterprises when utilizing the Global Talent Stream:
- Find out the Global Talent Stream requirements thoroughly before applying.
- Make a comprehensive and useful plan for labour market gains.
- Verify that every record is accurate and complete.
- Construct a defense that highlights the foreign worker's essential abilities that are unavailable domestically.
- Keep yourself informed about any changes or enhancements made to the program.
Conclusion: Embracing Global Talent in Canada
The Global Talent Stream represents Canada's proactive approach to address skills gaps and foster innovation in a fiercely competitive global marketplace. Whether you're an employer looking to attract top global talent or a skilled professional seeking the fastest way to work in Canada, the Global Talent Stream offers an efficient, employer-driven solution that supports Canada's innovation economy.