Washington tightens, Ottawa opens.
As the Trump administration stuns skilled professionals with a $100,000 annual H-1B visa fee, Canada has moved in for the kill.
In a massive $1.7 billion budget push, the Mark Carney government has announced a plan to hire thousands of global researchers and tech experts—a direct challenge to the U.S. for the world’s best brains.
“The skills of these researchers will help advance our global competitiveness,” the Canadian budget declares.
With over 70% of H-1B holders being Indians, Canada’s plan could trigger a massive talent exodus from Silicon Valley to Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal.
Canada’s Counter-Attack: “Accelerated Pathway” for H-1B Holders
To capitalize on U.S. discontent, Canada has rolled out an “accelerated pathway” for H-1B visa holders—offering fast-track immigration and permanent residency.
Between 2026 and 2028, Ottawa plans to bring in 380,000 permanent residents annually, targeting top-tier professionals abandoned by America’s restrictive policies.
⚖️ Tight Borders, Sharp Focus
While Canada courts the global elite, it’s slashing student and temporary visas.
New targets slash temporary resident numbers from 385,000 to 155,000—a clear signal that Canada wants talent, not traffic.
This is not just immigration reform—it’s a geopolitical recruitment war.
As the U.S. pushes talent away, Canada is rolling out the red carpet.
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