H-1B Visa Holders: A New Path to Canadian Permanent Residence

For H-1B visa holders in the United States, Canada is opening up exciting opportunities to live and work in the country. With the introduction of the Canadian Open Work Permit (OWP) on July 16, eligible H-1B holders and their families can now work in Canada for up to three years. Moreover, this new OWP pathway presents an excellent opportunity for H-1B visa holders to pursue Canadian permanent residence through the Express Entry system. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of applying for both the OWP and Express Entry, along with the advantages of Express Entry for STEM occupations.

Applying for H-1B OWP and Express Entry Together

As an H-1B visa holder, you have the advantage of being able to apply for both the Canadian OWP and Express Entry simultaneously. This can be a strategic move, as the OWP allows you to enter Canada and work for any employer while you pursue permanent residence through Express Entry. The application process for most work permits outside Canada is typically processed within 60 days, making it a viable option for quick entry.

Benefits of Express Entry for H-1B OWP Holders

Express Entry is Canada’s primary immigration management system for skilled workers. By creating an Express Entry profile, candidates are assessed based on human capital factors and assigned a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. Those with the highest CRS scores are most likely to receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.

If you are new to Canada and have not lived or worked there before, the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) is likely the most relevant pathway for your Canadian permanent residence through Express Entry. The advantage of applying for Express Entry after obtaining the OWP is that you can gain at least 12 months of eligible Canadian work experience, which can increase your CRS score and improve your chances of receiving an ITA.

Express Entry for STEM Occupations

Canada’s immigration minister, Sean Fraser, has introduced a tech talent strategy to attract skilled tech workers to the country. The new category-based Express Entry draws aim to select economic immigration candidates who can fill critical labor force gaps in Canada’s economy. The STEM category, which includes 35 eligible occupations, targets science, technology, engineering, and mathematics workers.

Occupations such as software engineers, designers, information systems analysts, and consultants consistently ranked among the top occupations for ITA recipients between 2019 and 2021. Express Entry applicants in STEM occupations have excellent prospects of receiving ITAs with a minimum CRS score of 486.

Other Pathways for Tech Talent

Canada’s tech talent strategy offers multiple pathways for skilled workers in the tech industry. Alongside the new OWP and Express Entry, H-1B visa holders can explore other options, such as the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). Many provinces have specialized streams within their PNPs designed for tech candidates. Gaining a provincial nomination adds 600 CRS points to your Express Entry profile, virtually guaranteeing an ITA for permanent residence.

For H-1B visa holders seeking new opportunities in Canada, the introduction of the Canadian Open Work Permit (OWP) is a game-changer. By applying for both the OWP and Express Entry together, you can maximize your chances of securing Canadian permanent residence. The Express Entry system, especially for STEM occupations, offers a swift and efficient pathway for skilled workers to call Canada their new home. With various immigration pathways and opportunities to enhance your CRS score, H-1B OWP holders are well-placed to embark on an exciting journey toward Canadian permanent residency.

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