Canada has opened new immigration channels to attract international tech expertise into the country’s digital system.

Sean Fraser, Canada’s minister of immigration, highlighted six new initiatives or upgrades to draw in IT talent from around the world, according to a report published by ImmigrationNewsCanada on Tuesday.

One includes the Work Permit Pathway For US H-1B visa holders, whereby the Canadian government said it would start a new open work permit stream beginning July 16 to allow 10,000 H-1B visa holders from the U.S. to come and work in Canada.

It said the H-1B visa holders could work for any employer in Canada without employer-specific restrictions, and accompanying family members would also be eligible to apply for study or work permits.

Only primary candidates will count against the application limit of 10,000. Their accompanying family members will not be counted toward the quota.

Mr Fraser also unveiled a new and dedicated pathway for permanent residency for employees in the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) sector.

“This is a re-announcement of targeted Express Entry draws for the STEM sector,” he said.

The Immigration minister also announced a return to a two-week processing time for the global talent stream.

According to him, the GTS is the fastest immigration path for the workers of eligible employers who want to move to Canada.

“We’re enthusiastic about the ambitious goals we have set in immigration because they aren’t just about numbers—they are strategic. With Canada’s first-ever immigration Tech Talent Strategy, we’re targeting newcomers that can help enshrine Canada as a world leader in a variety of emerging technologies,” said Mr Fraser. 

The Canadian immigration minister added, “I’m grateful for the collaboration of the tech, start-up and business communities, who have provided valuable insight to develop this strategy. Having a fast and flexible approach, one that is broadly supported by Canadians, is truly Canada’s immigration advantage.”