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Canada Unveils Fast-Track for H‑1B Holders and C$1.7 Billion Research Drive in Budget 2025

Ottawa pairs a targeted talent strategy with lower temporary-resident intake to rebalance immigration.

Overview

  • Budget 2025 confirms an accelerated immigration pathway for U.S. H‑1B visa holders, with application details to follow in the coming months.
  • Canada earmarks C$1.7 billion to recruit more than 1,000 international researchers, including long-term funding for research chairs, equipment and university hiring.
  • The immigration plan keeps permanent resident admissions at 380,000 annually from 2026 to 2028, prioritizing economic immigration.
  • Temporary-resident targets fall to 385,000 in 2026 and 370,000 in 2027–28, with new study permits cut to 155,000 in 2026 and 150,000 in 2027–28.
  • The initiative is expected to draw many Indian professionals, who account for over 70% of H‑1B recipients according to reported government data.