- Winny Immigration and Education Services Ltd
- inquiry@winnyimmigration.com
In a span of one year, between April 2022 and March 2023, Canada has witnessed an impressive influx of global tech industry workers, with more than 32,000 professionals arriving in the country for work. This remarkable phenomenon has been unveiled through a comprehensive report jointly presented by The Technology Councils of North America (TECNA) and Canada’s Tech Network (CTN), revealing insights into the dynamics of this migration trend, the tech hubs attracting talent, and Canada’s strategic efforts to foster the growth of its tech workforce.
The rise of tech talent migration to Canada is not coincidental; rather, it can be attributed to the country’s welcoming immigration policies and favorable labor costs. The TECNA and CTN report highlights how globalization and the surge of remote work have impacted the movement of tech professionals within North America. With the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic, many tech workers have started gravitating away from traditional tech hubs in favor of more flexible locations. In Canada’s case, this shift is augmented by the country’s thriving tech ecosystem and increased investments from U.S.-based tech giants.
The report emphasizes that Canada has been particularly successful in attracting tech talent from countries like India, Nigeria, and Brazil. Moreover, U.S. tech companies are increasingly investing in Canada due to its proximity and cost advantages. In 2022, the country boasted more than 400,000 software developers, with growth observed even in smaller provinces such as Saskatchewan and Newfoundland and Labrador.
Interestingly, the rapid growth of Canada’s tech workforce isn’t limited to major cities. Smaller provinces and rural Canadian cities are also experiencing a surge in tech workers, partly due to the growing prevalence of remote work. For instance, Windsor, Ontario, has witnessed an impressive 28% growth in its tech workforce over the past year. This trend signifies a paradigm shift toward rural locations, spurred by the newfound flexibility in work arrangements.
The TECNA and CTN report also sheds light on the most coveted tech skills in Canada. These include Customer Experience, Microsoft Azure, Analytical Skills, Amazon Web Services, React.js, Jira, Data Science, GitHub, Customer Satisfaction, and Customer Relationship Management. Aspiring global tech talents eyeing a move to Canada can benefit from aligning their skill sets with these high-demand competencies.
Canada’s reputation as a tech hub is underpinned by several cities that stand out for their innovation and tech-driven growth. The TECNA and CTN report ranks Mississauga, Montreal, and Waterloo as the most attractive tech hubs for newcomers.
With nearly 1,000 IT companies and over 300,000 tech professionals, Mississauga plays a vital role in North America’s ICT landscape. Global tech giants like Microsoft, Oracle, and IBM have established their operations in the city. Mississauga’s innovation ecosystem is bolstered by initiatives like the Mississauga Innovation and Technology Acceleration Program (MITAP), providing funding and mentorship to local start-ups. The region’s projected population growth promises a continuous supply of tech talent for years to come.
Montreal has grown around 31% in its tech ecosystem from 2015 to 2020, boasting the second-largest tech market in Canada. It’s a major hub for AI and IT, attracting corporations like Google, Microsoft, and Meta. The city hosts over 200 game development studios, contributing to its vibrant tech scene. Notable start-up-focused events and strong academic support further contribute to Montreal’s tech prowess.
Home to over 1,570 tech-related businesses, including BlackBerry and D2L, Waterloo ranks among the top 20 start-up ecosystems globally. Renowned academic institutions like the University of Waterloo fuel the city’s tech talent pool. Waterloo’s quality of life and venture capital investments make it an ideal destination for both tech professionals and start-ups.
Canada’s Efforts to Attract Global Tech Talent
Canada’s commitment to fostering its tech sector extends beyond mere growth. The government’s Tech Talent Strategy and category-based Express Entry draws are playing pivotal roles in this regard.
Tech Talent Strategy: Paving the Way for Growth
Canada’s Tech Talent Strategy focuses on attracting global tech talent through initiatives like the new Innovation Stream under the International Mobility Program (IMP). The strategy promotes Canada as an appealing destination for digital nomads, streamlines work permits for H-1B visa holders in the U.S., and enhances existing programs catering to high-skill tech occupations.
Category-Based Express Entry Draws
The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has initiated category-based Express Entry draws for immigration candidates with STEM expertise. This aligns with Canada’s ambition to attract more global tech talent. One such draw in 2023 invited candidates with work experience in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics to apply for permanent residence in Canada.
Conclusion
Canada’s tech industry is experiencing an exciting phase of growth, driven by global tech workers choosing the country as their professional destination. With attractive tech hubs, strategic initiatives, and a welcoming environment, Canada is poised to continue its ascent as a global tech powerhouse.
Grateful to Apurva Giri for guiding me through the Canada visitor visa process. Highly recommend Winny Immigrations for your overseas visa needs. Thanks, Apurva!
Winny Immigrations, highly professional and excellent in services. Special thanks to my counselor, Apurva Giri, for unwavering support and guidance. Highly recommend them for counseling and visa processes.
Winny Consultancy is incredibly cooperative, offering genuine guidance with a supportive and friendly approach. I highly recommend this consultant to my friends – Apurva Giri
Consulted immigrants, uneasy about PR without Canadian relatives. After talking to Sirin, got valuable insights. With Winny Immigration’s help, my Express Entry profile was created successfully. Highly recommend.
Winny Immigration’s fantastic team, with highly talented staff, excels in understanding client needs and providing transparent guidance. I’m sincerely thankful to the entire team, especially Miss Sarika.