Employers in high-growth industries can apply for work permits under the Canadian Global Talent Stream (GTS) and take advantage of expedited processing time. This program was introduced to help companies quickly bring foreign talent to Canada to support their expanding businesses. Employers must comply with wage conditions when hiring skilled foreign workers through the GTS.

Employers wishing to hire skilled workers through the Global Talent Stream must work with Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) to develop a Labour Market Benefits Plan. This plan outlines the positive contributions that foreign workers will bring to the Canadian labour market, as well as the activities the employer will undertake to promote job creation and investments in skills and training.

Employers must commit to increasing investments in skills and training for Canadian citizens and permanent residents. Employers must ensure that the salary meets the highest of these standards, the applicable minimum wage for the occupation, as identified in the Global Talent Occupations List for highly-skilled positions; the wage range for employees in the same position with comparable skills and experience in the same location; the median wage on the Government of Canada’s Job Bank, which is listed by job title or National Occupational Classification (NOC) code.

Additionally, employers are required to pledge two complementary benefits, supported by defined activities. These benefits may include, but are not limited to, creating jobs, investing in training, transferring knowledge to Canadian workers, and improving company performance. Examples of supporting activities include hiring more Canadian workers, offering training programs for current employees, providing paid internships or co-op opportunities for students, and increasing revenue or investments.