🇨🇦 Canada

Global Talent Stream (Work Permit)

Fast-tracked 2-week work permit processing for high-demand tech/STEM workers sponsored by a Canadian employer. Part of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program.

Timeline: 14d–2mo

Intra-Company Transfer (Work Permit)

Work permit for employees transferring from a foreign office to a Canadian office of the same multinational. Executives, senior managers, and specialised-knowledge workers are eligible.

Timeline: 1mo–4mo

IEC — International Experience Canada (Working Holiday)

Open work permit for young citizens of IEC bilateral agreement countries. Working Holiday, Young Professionals, and International Co-op streams available. Excellent stepping stone to Express Entry.

Timeline: 1mo–3mo

Express Entry — Federal Skilled Worker

Points-based permanent residence pathway for skilled workers worldwide. Candidates enter the Express Entry pool and receive Invitations to Apply (ITAs) in periodic draws based on CRS score.

Timeline: 6mo–1yr

Express Entry — Canadian Experience Class

Express Entry stream reserved for people who already have at least one year of skilled work experience inside Canada. Typically sees lower CRS cutoffs in targeted category-based draws.

Timeline: 4mo–9mo

Express Entry — Federal Skilled Trades

Express Entry stream for qualified tradespeople: electricians, plumbers, welders, carpenters, HVAC technicians, and similar NOC TEER 2–3 trades occupations.

Timeline: 6mo–1yr

PNP — Provincial Nominee Programs

Each Canadian province and territory runs its own streams targeting workers, entrepreneurs, and international graduates that match local labour needs. A PNP nomination adds 600 CRS points, making virtually any profile competitive in Express Entry.

Timeline: 9mo–1yr

Self-Employed Persons

Permanent residence for individuals with relevant experience in cultural activities or athletics who can make a significant contribution to Canadian cultural or athletic life as self-employed persons.

Timeline: 1yr–2yr

Quebec — Programme des travailleurs qualifiés (PSTQ)

Quebec's own skilled worker selection programme. Quebec selects its own immigrants via the Grille de sélection, which heavily weights French language ability, Canadian/Quebec connections, and a validated job offer. After Quebec selection, candidates apply to IRCC for permanent residence.

Timeline: 1yr–2yr

Start-up Visa (SUV)

Permanent residence pathway for founders who secure support from a designated Canadian incubator, angel investor group, or VC fund. No investment threshold from the applicant — the value is in the business idea and endorsement.

Timeline: 9mo–2yr