After the Donald Trump administration in the US sharply increased H-1B visa fees, the Mark Carney government in Canada has introduced a major plan to attract global talent.
Indian professionals, who make up about 70% of H-1B visa holders in the US, are expected to benefit the most from this initiative.
$1.7 Billion Fund to Support Skilled Professionals
In its latest budget, the Canadian government has announced a $1.7 billion fund to create job opportunities for over 1,000 skilled researchers in Canada.
This move comes as the US raised H-1B visa fees to $100,000 per year, disappointing many skilled technical professionals who aspired to work in the US.
According to a Bloomberg report, Canada’s budget highlights that “the skills of these researchers will help advance our global competitiveness and contribute to the future economy.”
To further attract international talent, Canada has also introduced an “accelerated pathway” for existing H-1B visa holders, making it easier for them to move and work in Canada.
Under its new immigration policy, the country plans to welcome 380,000 permanent residents annually from 2026 to 2028.
Fewer Temporary Residents and Student Visas
While focusing on attracting skilled professionals, Canada is also reducing the number of temporary residents.
Previously, the government aimed to issue 385,000 visas for temporary residents in 2026 and 370,000 for the next two years.
However, these numbers have now been drastically cut — to 155,000 in 2026 and 150,000 each in 2027 and 2028, including a major reduction in new education permits.
