Inside Canada’s Skilled Worker Cap Program

Canada’s largest province recently met the quota for its skilled worker visa. The Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP) grants work authorization to 10,000 individuals each year. The application period is split into two submission segments, one in the spring and the second following shortly after in the summer.

As the country continues to revamp its immigration programs — Canada recently granted visa-free travel to Mexican citizens — employers may find the program, among others, to be a suitable alternative to the United States’ highly sought-after H-1B Person in Specialty Occupation visa.

Who Can Apply?

Organizations with Canadian offices or subsidiaries may pursue this visa to recruit highly skilled foreign talent.

What’s the Eligibility Criteria?

Sponsored applicants are examined on the basis of age, education level, industry, work experience and language proficiency. Also, while an offer of employment is not required, it does expedite the application process.

What Are the Special Benefits?

In addition to spousal and children dependent benefits, QSWP allows workers to pursue permanent residency.

Other Canadian Immigration Programs

Canada’s Federal Skilled Worker Program was created for individuals who plan on residing anywhere outside of Quebec. Additionally, most provinces and territories have their own immigration program that fast-tracks the application process for potential residents. Learn more about the Provincial Nominee Programs here.

Need help sponsoring a skilled worker for one of the programs above? Contact VISANOW.

Originally published at www.visanow.com on September 13, 2016.