Global Talent Stream Work Permit: How To Apply In Canada 2025

The Global Talent Stream (GTS) is a fast-track work permit program that allows Canadian employers to hire highly skilled foreign workers quickly. This program is part of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) and is designed to help companies in Canada fill tech and specialized talent gaps by bringing in skilled professionals from around the world.

The GTS offers expedited processing, making it an attractive option for both employers and immigrants seeking job opportunities in Canada. This blog will guide you through the application process, eligibility criteria, and tips to increase your chances of approval.

What Is The Global Talent Stream?

The Global Talent Stream is a work permit program introduced by the Canadian government to help employers access specialized talent. It offers:

• Faster Processing: Applications are processed in two weeks or less.
  
• Priority for Tech and STEM Jobs: Ideal for professionals in IT, engineering, and science fields.
  
• Labour Market Benefits: Employers must demonstrate that hiring a foreign worker will benefit the Canadian labour market through job creation, knowledge transfer, or innovation.
  

Who Is Eligible For The Global Talent Stream?

To apply for the GTS, both the employer and the foreign worker must meet specific eligibility requirements.

1. Employer Eligibility

Employers must be either:

• Category A:
  
  • Referred by a designated partner organization (such as provincial business development agencies or innovation hubs).
    
  • Seeking highly skilled individuals with unique and specialized talent.
    
• Category B:
  
  • Hiring foreign workers for high-demand tech occupations listed on the Global Talent Occupations List.
    
  • No referral is required for Category B.
    

Category B High-Demand Occupations Include:

• Software engineers and designers.
  
• Computer programmers and web developers.
  
• Information systems analysts.
  
• Data scientists and cybersecurity specialists.
  
• Electrical and electronics engineers.
  

2. Foreign Worker Eligibility

To qualify for a GTS work permit, foreign workers must:

• Have a valid job offer from a Canadian employer.
  
• Meet the required skill level and work experience.
  
• Provide proof of qualifications (education, certifications, or work experience).
  
• Submit biometrics and medical exams, if required.
  

Step-By-Step Application Process For The GTS Work Permit

Step 1: Employer Submits Labour Market Benefits Plan (LMBP)

Before applying for a GTS work permit, the employer must submit a Labour Market Benefits Plan (LMBP) to demonstrate how hiring a foreign worker will benefit Canada.

• For Category A: The employer must prove the worker brings unique skills that are difficult to find in Canada.
  
• For Category B: The employer must demonstrate efforts to train and hire Canadians while filling immediate skill gaps with foreign workers.
  

✅ Key Elements in the LMBP:

• Job Creation: Plan to create new jobs for Canadians.
  
• Knowledge Transfer: Demonstrate how the foreign worker will help enhance the skills of Canadian employees.
  
• Company Growth: Explain how the worker’s expertise will contribute to the company’s expansion or innovation.
  

Step 2: Employer Submits the LMIA Application

The Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a document required to hire a foreign worker. However, under the GTS:

• The LMIA process is simplified and faster.
  
• Applications are processed in two weeks.
  
• Employers must pay a $1,000 processing fee per worker.
  

✅ Required Documents for LMIA:

• Business registration and financial documents.
  
• Proof of advertising efforts (for Category B).
  
• Labour Market Benefits Plan.
  

Step 3: Employee Applies for the Work Permit

Once the employer receives a positive LMIA, the foreign worker can apply for the GTS work permit.

✅ Documents Needed:

• A valid job offer from the employer.
  
• The positive LMIA confirmation letter.
  
• Proof of qualifications (resume, degrees, and certifications).
  
• A valid passport.
  
• Police clearance certificate (if required).
  
• Medical exam results (if applicable).
  

✅ Application Process:

• Apply online through the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.
  
• Pay the application fee ($155 for the work permit).
  
• Submit biometrics (if applicable).
  
• Wait for processing (typically two weeks).
  

Processing Time and Fees

• Processing Time: The GTS work permit is processed within two weeks, making it one of the fastest immigration streams in Canada.
  
• Fees:
  
  • Employer Fee: $1,000 LMIA processing fee per worker.
    
  • Work Permit Fee: $155 (plus biometrics fee if applicable).
    

Benefits of the Global Talent Stream

• Fast Processing: GTS offers a two-week processing time, significantly faster than other work permits.
  
• Open to Tech and STEM Workers: Prioritizes professionals in high-demand occupations.
  
• Labour Market Benefits: The program promotes job creation and innovation in Canada.
  
• Pathway to PR: GTS work experience can increase eligibility for Express Entry PR programs.
  

Tips for a Successful Application

1. For Employers:
   
   • Ensure the Labour Market Benefits Plan (LMBP) clearly outlines how hiring foreign workers will benefit Canada.
     
   • Provide thorough job descriptions and proof of recruitment efforts (for Category B).
     
   • Submit complete and accurate LMIA documents.
     
2. For Foreign Workers:
   
   • Verify that your occupation is listed in Category B or that the employer is referred by a designated partner (Category A).
     
   • Include all necessary documents, including proof of work experience and educational qualifications.
     
   • Ensure your passport and biometrics are up to date.
     

Pathway To Permanent Residency (PR)

Foreign workers hired through the GTS may become eligible for permanent residency in Canada.

• Express Entry:
  
  • Work experience under GTS counts towards Canadian work experience.
    
  • GTS workers can apply through Express Entry’s Canadian Experience Class (CEC) or Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP).
    
  • GTS work permits may increase your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.
    

Conclusion

The Global Talent Stream is a valuable immigration program for skilled foreign workers seeking employment in Canada. With fast processing times and simplified LMIA requirements, it offers a quicker path to working in Canada. For employers, it provides access to high-demand talent, boosting productivity and innovation.

If you’re a skilled worker in tech, STEM, or specialized fields, the GTS is one of the fastest and most effective ways to obtain a Canadian work permit. With proper preparation and accurate documentation, you can maximize your chances of a successful application and potentially pursue permanent residency in Canada.Global Talent Stream Work Permit: How to Apply in Canada 2025