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HGT · GTS · Tech & innovation
LMIA

Global Talent Stream - fast-track hiring for tech & innovation

Category A & B · Labour Market Benefits Plan · ~2-week processing target

Hire highly skilled international talent in about two weeks. Our HGT division manages the full GTS process - from eligibility to work permit support after a positive LMIA.

What is the Global Talent Stream?

The Global Talent Stream (GTS) is an LMIA stream that aims to process applications in about 2 weeks. It is designed for employers hiring highly skilled workers in tech and innovation.

GTS has two categories: Category A (referral from a designated organization) and Category B (specific in-demand occupations on the GTS list). Employers must also submit a Labour Market Benefits Plan. We prepare complete applications and supports the worker's work permit after a positive LMIA.

At a glance

  • ~2-week processing target
  • Category A & B supported
  • Labour Market Benefits Plan included
  • $1,000 LMIA fee per position

Category A & Category B

Two paths to fast-track hiring - we help you determine which applies and prepare the application.

Category A - Designated Organization Referral

  • Referral from a designated partner organization (e.g. from the GTS list)
  • Worker must have unique talent not readily available in Canada
  • Designated organization provides a referral letter for the LMIA application

Category B - Eligible Occupations

  • Job must be in an occupation on the Global Talent Stream occupations list
  • Includes many tech roles: software engineers, developers, data scientists, IT project managers
  • List updated by ESDC; We checks current eligible NOC codes for your position

Labour Market Benefits Plan

Employers must submit a Labour Market Benefits Plan committing to activities that benefit the Canadian labour market (e.g. creating jobs, training Canadians, transferring knowledge). ESDC may monitor compliance. We help employers draft and implement the plan.

Cost and Process

The LMIA fee for GTS is $1,000 per position. You submit the application with the referral (Category A) or proof the job is on the list (Category B), the Labour Market Benefits Plan, and supporting documents. After a positive LMIA, the worker applies for a work permit. We manages the full process.

Did you know?

If your role doesn't qualify for GTS, We can still help with a standard LMIA - processing may take longer but we handle all streams. See LMIA services.

Need tech talent in 2 weeks?

Book a free consultation - we'll confirm if GTS fits your role and get your application on track.

Check GTS Eligibility →

Global Talent Stream FAQ

Common questions about fast-track hiring for tech and innovation.

What is the Global Talent Stream?

The Global Talent Stream (GTS) is a fast-track LMIA stream for employers hiring highly skilled workers in tech and innovation. Processing target is about 2 weeks. It has two categories: A (designated organization referral) and B (specific in-demand occupations on the GTS list).

What is Category A vs Category B?

Category A: You must be referred by a designated organization and be hiring unique talent. Category B: The job must be in an eligible occupation on the GTS list (e.g. software engineers, data scientists). Both have a 2-week processing target.

What is the Labour Market Benefits Plan?

Employers under GTS must commit to activities that benefit the Canadian labour market (e.g. job creation, skills training, knowledge transfer). The plan is part of the application and can be monitored by ESDC. We help employers draft and implement the plan.

How much does GTS cost?

The LMIA fee for GTS is $1,000 per position. There may be additional costs for the designated organization (Category A) or for consulting support. We provide clear fee information at consultation.

Can We help with GTS?

Yes. Our team's HGT Division prepares GTS applications for both Category A and Category B, including the Labour Market Benefits Plan and work permit support for the worker. Free employer consultation available.

Ready to Hire With GTS?

Book a consultation - we'll confirm your eligibility and get your application on track for 2-week processing.

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