Canada is preparing to roll out a new policy aimed at attracting skilled foreign workers affected by the United States’ recent overhaul of its H-1B visa program.
Prime Minister Mark Carney said his government will soon announce measures to welcome highly skilled professionals, particularly those deterred by the newly imposed $100,000 H-1B visa fee under the Trump administration.
“Not as many H-1B visa holders will get opportunities in the US. These people are skilled, enterprising, and willing to move for work. This is an opportunity for Canada, and we will soon bring forward a proposal,” Carney said.
The US decision, which significantly raises the cost of hiring foreign workers, is intended to protect American jobs but is expected to hit professionals from India and China the hardest.
Meanwhile, other countries are moving quickly to attract this global talent pool. In the UK, Prime Minister Keir Starmer is exploring a zero-fee visa system for top global talent, especially graduates of the world’s leading universities and recipients of prestigious awards.
Similarly, Germany has openly called on highly skilled Indians to consider relocating. German Ambassador to India, Dr Philipp Ackermann, recently emphasized that Indian professionals contribute significantly to Germany’s economy, often earning more than their German counterparts.
Canada already stands out as a major destination for Indian professionals. Between April 2022 and March 2023, about 32,000 tech workers migrated to Canada—nearly 15,000 of them from India. In 2024 alone, 87,000 Indians obtained Canadian citizenship, making them the largest group among new Canadians. In 2022, more than 118,000 Indians became permanent residents, representing almost one-third of Canada’s total intake.
With the US tightening its visa system, experts say Canada’s move could strengthen its position as one of the world’s most attractive destinations for global tech talent.
