Fast-Track Your Canada Work Permit via Global Talent Stream

Skilled Workers in These Occupations Can Get a Work Permit in Just Two Weeks Through Canada’s Global Talent Stream

• Canada’s Global Talent Stream (GTS) offers two-week work permit processing for specific in-demand occupations
• Eligible jobs span tech, engineering, data science, digital media, and other specialized fields
• There are two GTS categories: one for listed occupations and another for uniquely skilled professionals
• Employers must get a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) before workers apply for a permit
• Most GTS work permits are processed within 14 days, letting workers start their Canadian journey faster
• Some occupations also qualify for Express Entry’s STEM category with Canadian work experience

If you’re a highly skilled professional with expertise in tech, engineering, or another in-demand field, getting a Canadian work permit could be faster than you think. Thanks to the Global Talent Stream (GTS), eligible foreign workers can now have their work permit processed in as little as two weeks—seriously!

This is great news for both employers and international talent looking to make Canada their new home. Whether you’re eyeing Toronto’s bustling tech scene or hoping to land in Winnipeg through a program like the Manitoba PNP, the GTS could be your express ticket in.

What is the Global Talent Stream (GTS)?

The Global Talent Stream is part of Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), which helps employers bring in skilled workers when qualified Canadians aren’t available. GTS is specifically aimed at fast-tracking this process for certain high-demand positions and individuals with unique expertise.

There are two pathways under GTS:

• Category A: For workers with specialized, unique talent referred by a designated partner
• Category B: For workers with a job offer in one of Canada’s pre-approved, in-demand occupations

Let’s take a closer look at who qualifies, how it works, and how you can take advantage of this lightning-fast immigration process.

Which Occupations Are Eligible for Fast-Track Processing?

Category B of the GTS targets professionals in 22 key roles. If you’ve got a job offer in one of these occupations, you could qualify for a two-week work permit process. Here’s a handy snapshot of the eligible jobs:

Note: Roles marked with an asterisk (*) may also make you eligible for Canada’s Express Entry STEM category after gaining Canadian work experience.

Express Entry & STEM Category Advantage

If you’re working in one of the starred occupations and gain at least six months of continuous, full-time experience in Canada, you may qualify for Express Entry under the STEM-focused category-based selection. That’s another excellent reason to explore the GTS pathway—it could open doors to permanent residence down the line.

How to Get a Work Permit Through the Global Talent Stream

Getting your GTS-linked work permit is a two-step process, and it all starts with your employer.

Step 1: Employer Applies for a GTS-Aligned LMIA

Your future employer in Canada must submit a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) through Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). The good news? GTS-aligned LMIAs are processed in about 10 business days—much faster than the standard timeline.

Step 2: Apply for Your Work Permit

Once your employer gets the LMIA approval, you can submit your work permit application to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Don’t forget to:

• Attach the LMIA approval letter
• Indicate that your application is under the GTS

IRCC will typically process your application within two weeks, letting you start your Canadian job much sooner than traditional work permit routes.

Don’t Have a Job in an Eligible Occupation? There’s Still Hope!

Even if your job isn’t on the GTS occupation list, you could still qualify under Category A—the referral-based stream. This is for individuals with “unique and specialized talent” and includes roles that meet these criteria:

• Pay at least $38.46/hour (about $80,000/year) or more
• Require advanced industry-specific knowledge
• Require either an advanced degree or 5+ years of specialized experience

To qualify, your employer must be referred to the GTS by a designated partner and demonstrate that they’re focused on innovation and business growth in Canada.

Final Thoughts: Is GTS Right for You?

The Global Talent Stream is an excellent option for skilled professionals who want to work in Canada quickly and efficiently. With roles in software development, engineering, data science, and more, the pathway offers a win-win for both employers and international talent.

And remember, if you’re aiming for long-term immigration, gaining Canadian work experience through GTS could also help boost your Express Entry eligibility, especially under the STEM category.

Curious if you qualify? Whether you’re a tech wizard or a specialist in aerospace, a quick consultation could help map your next move.

Schedule your free consultation today and take your first step toward working—and thriving—in Canada.