…By Dorcas Funmi for TDPel Media.
Canada has unveiled a new immigration mechanism aimed at attracting global tech talent, providing job opportunities for individuals worldwide, including Nigerians.
Launched at the 2023 Collision Conference in Toronto, the strategy introduces fresh measures and improves existing ones to enhance Canada’s competitiveness in the evolving tech landscape.
This announcement follows Germany’s recent immigration law, which encourages workers from outside the European Union to seek employment in the country.
A Stream for Highly Talented Individuals:
Sean Fraser, Canada’s Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship, outlined the details of the strategy.
He announced that Canada will develop a specific stream to facilitate the entry of highly talented individuals into the country to work for tech companies, even if they do not have a job offer.
This stream will provide an avenue for skilled professionals to contribute to the Canadian tech industry.
Digital Nomads Strategy:
As part of the plan, Canada will introduce a ‘digital nomads’ strategy, enabling individuals employed by foreign companies to work in Canada for up to six months.
Fraser explained that if these talented individuals receive job offers while in Canada, they will have the opportunity to extend their stay and continue contributing to the country’s tech sector.
Learning from the US Tech Sector:
Fraser acknowledged that Canada has been closely monitoring developments in the tech sector of the United States.
Through private conversations and observations, Canada aims to leverage opportunities in the industry and attract top talent.
This immigration strategy aligns with the country’s commitment to staying at the forefront of emerging technologies.
Expansion of Immigration-Friendly Policies:
Canada’s proactive approach stems from factors such as an aging population and low birth rate, prompting the need to expand its workforce through immigration.
In 2022, Canada welcomed 437,120 permanent residents, representing an 8% increase from the previous year.
The country has set ambitious goals to welcome 500,000 immigrants annually by 2025, with a target of nearly 1.5 million new immigrants over the next three years.
Enshrining Canada as a Tech Leader:
Fraser expressed enthusiasm for the ambitious immigration goals set by Canada.
Through this tech-focused strategy, the country aims to attract newcomers who can help establish Canada as a global leader in various emerging technologies.
The recent measures implemented by Canada, including facilitating the relocation of recent immigrants and implementing category-based selection in its express entry system, reflect its commitment to addressing labor shortages and fostering economic growth.
Conclusion:
Canada’s newly announced immigration strategy targeting global tech talent demonstrates its commitment to remaining competitive in the evolving tech landscape.
The plan offers opportunities for individuals, including Nigerians, to contribute to Canada’s tech industry, with dedicated streams for highly talented individuals and provisions for digital nomads.
Canada’s efforts to attract young, dynamic immigrants align with its goal of sustaining economic growth and establishing itself as a global leader in emerging technologies.