
The situation
Canada’s newly released proposed 2019 budget includes an investment of CAD 7.4 million per year over a five-year period to make the Global Talent Stream pilot program permanent.
Impact
The Global Talent Stream program facilitates the entry of highly-skilled foreign nationals in science, technology, engineering and mathematics related professions through (1) a streamlined Labour Market Impact Assessment process and (2) enabling employers who have obtained a Labour Market Impact Assessment through the Global Talent stream program to apply for expedited two-week work permit processing for approved workers.
Background
The Global Talent Stream Pilot Program was introduced as a two-year pilot program in June, 2017.
Looking ahead
The Canadian parliament is expected to vote to approve the budget shortly. Following the budget’s passage, the Canadian government is expected to release further permanent program instructions and Fragomen will provide updates as they become available. The creation of a permanent program for highly-skilled workers is aligned with the government’s objective of seeking highly talented immigrants to address skills shortages in Canada.
This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen or send an email to [email protected].
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Awards
Partner Julia Onslow-Cole is recognised in the Spears 500 guide to leading private client advisers, reflecting her experience advising high-net-worth individuals, families and global businesses on complex UK and European immigration and mobility strategies.
Media mentions
Partner Abeer Al Husseini discusses increased scrutiny of Saudi business visas in AGBI, highlighting stricter review of short-term entry used for operational work and the implications for regional employers.
Awards
Australia and New Zealand Managing Partner Teresa Liu, Partner Charles Johanes, Practice Leaders Hedvika and Leader Ben Lear and Senior Associate Hannah Scanlan are recognized in the 2026 edition of Doyle’s Guide as leading immigration practitioners in Australia.
Awards
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Media mentions
Partner Rick Lamanna provides insight to Buffalo Toronto Public Media on potential IRCC processing challenges as Canada prepares for increased visa demand ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Blog post
Immigration Director Deirdre Murray explores the impact of upcoming employment permit changes on employers and workforce planning in Ireland.
Video
Director David Iannella discusses how Global Entry can help frequent business travelers navigate US entry more predictably and access TSA PreCheck.
Video
Manager Russell Hodges and Associate Gurpreet Phalora explain key UK immigration considerations for London Fashion Week 2026.
Advisory services
Senior Counsel Jo Antoons and Immigration Supervisor Elisabeth Kamm explore the EU Blue Card recast and its impact for employers, highlighting how hiring, retention and mobility decisions are affected.
Media mentions
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