Global Talent Stream – Sapra Immigration

What Is the Global Talent Stream?

The Global Talent Stream (GTS) is a fast-track immigration program under Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) that helps Canadian employers hire highly skilled foreign workers quickly and efficiently.

Launched in 2017 and continuously refined, the program supports Canada’s innovation and tech sectors by offering two-week work permit processing for eligible occupations and applicants.

Key Benefits of the GTS Program

✓ 2-week work permit processing for most applicants

✓ LMIA approval in as little as 10 business days

✓ Designed to fill critical talent shortages in Canada’s high-growth sectors

✓ Supports Canada’s position as a global tech and innovation hub

GTS Categories and Eligibility

Category A – Designated Partner Referral

Employers must be referred by a GTS Designated Partner and are hiring unique or specialized talent.

Ideal for:

High-growth companies
Startups with scalable potential
Employers who need highly specialized workers for niche roles

✔ A referral letter from a GTS-designated partner is mandatory.

Category B – Occupation on the Global Talent Occupations List

Employers do not need a referral if they are hiring for an occupation listed under the Global Talent Occupations List (2025 version), which includes high-demand positions in tech, engineering, and digital sectors.

Sample Occupations Include:

Software Engineers & Designers
Computer Programmers & Interactive Media Developers
Web Designers & Developers
Information Systems Analysts & Consultants
Civil, Electrical, and Mechanical Engineers

Cybersecurity Specialists

(The full list is updated regularly. We help assess eligibility.)

Employer Requirements

To access the Global Talent Stream, employers must:

Submit a Labour Market Benefits Plan (LMBP):Co-developed with Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), outlining how hiring the foreign worker will positively impact the Canadian labour market (e.g., job creation, knowledge transfer).
Pay the Processing Fee:$1,000 CAD per position submitted under GTS (non-refundable)
Meet Job Advertising Requirements (if applicable):While some advertising exemptions apply under GTS, employers must still demonstrate they are committed to long-term talent development in Canada.
Conduct Progress Reviews: Employers must provide progress reports on commitments made in the LMBP.

Worker Eligibility Requirements

Foreign nationals applying under the GTS must:

Have skills and experience that match the position listed in the application
Provide supporting documents, including a valid job offer, resume, and educational credentials
Be able to obtain a work permit, with eligibility for 2-week processing if applying from outside Canada and providing biometrics upfront

Processing Timelines

LMIA Approval: Typically within 10 business days
Work Permit (after LMIA): Most are processed within 2 weeks if all conditions are met
Biometrics & Medical: May affect timelines slightly based on applicant’s nationality

Why Choose Sapra Immigration Services Inc.?

We work with Canadian tech firms, startups, and enterprise employers to navigate the Global Talent Stream and bring in top international talent fast.

As a RCIC-led team, we offer:

✓ Guidance on program eligibility and occupation matching

✓ Support with Labour Market Benefits Plan (LMBP) preparation

✓ LMIA submission and tracking

✓ Worker documentation, work permit filing, and family applications (if applicable)

✓ Transition support to permanent residence (Express Entry, CEC)