How Canadian employers hire global talent faster through federal programs

How Canadian employers hire global talent faster through federal programs

Canadian employers often struggle to fill highly skilled roles quickly. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) says that federal hiring programs such as the International Mobility Program (IMP) and Global Talent Stream (GTS) can shorten hiring timelines by weeks or even months. If your business needs specialized workers soon, these programs can help by skipping steps such as the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), which often causes delays.

This guide explains how Canadian employers can hire global talent faster using federal programs. It covers what each program is best for, how to avoid common mistakes, and the steps you need to follow.

---

Main federal programs that speed up global hiring

Two main federal programs help Canadian employers hire skilled workers faster: the International Mobility Program and the Global Talent Stream.

International Mobility Program (IMP)

The International Mobility Program allows you to hire foreign workers without an LMIA. The LMIA is often the slowest part of traditional hiring.

Key features

• No Labour Market Impact Assessment needed
• Employer submits an offer of employment through the IRCC Employer Portal
• Employer compliance fee of $230 per worker
• Covers categories such as intra-company transferees, CUSMA professionals, and significant benefit exemptions

Who it’s best for

• Employers moving staff from a foreign branch
• Companies hiring under international trade agreements
• Businesses that can show a clear economic or cultural benefit to Canada

Since there is no LMIA, many IMP work permits are approved faster than regular Temporary Foreign Worker Program permits.

Global Talent Stream (GTS)

The Global Talent Stream is part of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program. It offers two-week processing for both LMIAs and work permits in many cases.

Eligibility highlights

• Category A: Must be referred by a designated partner as an innovative firm
• Category B: Hiring for jobs on the Global Talent Occupations List
• Must create a Labour Market Benefits Plan (LMBP) to show benefits for Canadians
• Must be a legally operating Canadian business with CRA records

Why employers choose GTS

• Two-week processing for eligible applications
• Designed for high-growth and tech-focused businesses
• More predictable timelines than standard LMIA applications

GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you check if your business qualifies for IMP exemptions or the Global Talent Stream.

---

How the hiring process works: step by step

Each stream has its own rules, but the fast-track hiring process usually follows these steps:

1. Choose the right program

   • Use IMP if you qualify for an LMIA exemption
   • Use GTS if you need a fast LMIA process

2. Prepare employer documents

   • Business number and CRA records
   • Job offer details and wage information
   • Labour Market Benefits Plan (for GTS only)

3. Submit the employer application

   • IMP: Offer of employment through the Employer Portal and pay the $230 fee
   • GTS: LMIA application through ESDC

4. Worker applies for a work permit

   • Often eligible for fast processing under GTS
   • May apply at a visa office or port of entry, based on nationality

---

Tips for success and common mistakes to avoid

Choosing the wrong program
Applying under GTS when an IMP exemption fits your situation can add extra paperwork and cause delays.

Weak Labour Market Benefits Plan
For GTS, if your plan for job creation or training is vague, your application may be delayed or refused.

Incorrect wage levels
You must offer wages that meet or exceed the required level. Many applications are rejected because the wage is too low.

Missing compliance steps
Not submitting the employer offer correctly or missing the $230 IMP fee can stop your application from moving forward.

---

Beyond speed: How these programs support Canadian businesses

Hiring through the IMP or GTS is not just about speed. These programs help Canadian businesses stay competitive by making it easier to bring in specialized talent from around the world. This is especially important in fields like technology, engineering, and research, where demand for skills is high.

Small and medium-sized businesses can also benefit. As long as you meet the program requirements, company size does not limit your ability to use these programs. GrantHub tracks federal and provincial programs that can support hiring, training, and wage costs, making it easier for businesses to find the right support.

---

FAQ

Q: How fast is the Global Talent Stream in practice?
Most eligible Global Talent Stream applications are processed within two weeks for both the LMIA and work permit, though this is not always guaranteed.

Q: Do all IMP hires avoid an LMIA?
Yes. The International Mobility Program is made for LMIA-exempt hiring.

Q: Can small businesses use these programs?
Yes. Small and mid-sized Canadian businesses can use both IMP and GTS if they meet the rules.

Q: Is the Global Talent Stream available everywhere in Canada?
Yes, it is a federal program offered across all provinces. Provincial employment standards still apply.

Q: What happens if I do not meet my Labour Market Benefits Plan commitments?
Employers may face reviews, penalties, or may be banned from future participation.

---

Next steps

Hiring international talent does not need to be slow. Federal programs like the International Mobility Program and Global Talent Stream help Canadian employers fill roles faster and stay competitive.

GrantHub tracks hundreds of federal and provincial programs—including hiring, wage, and training supports—so you can find the best options for your business before you apply.

See also

• Ontario Scale-Up Programs: Support Options for Growing Tech Companies
• FedNor Programs: What Support Is Available Beyond Direct Funding?
• How Long Do Canadian Grant Programs Take to Pay Out Funds?