Choosing to work in Canada after the H-1B fee increase

The recent increase in the US H-1B visa application fee to US$100,000 has prompted many highly skilled workers to rethink their career plans in North America. Canada, with its transparent immigration system and affordable application costs, has become an attractive alternative.

For those weighing up career opportunities outside the United States, understanding Canadian work permit fees and the pathways available can help them make an informed decision.

What are Canada’s work permit fees?

Applying for a work permit in Canada is far cheaper than an H-1B. The current Canadian work permit fee is $155 CAD for most applicants. For an open work permit application, a further one hundred Canadian dollars is required.

Employers recruiting under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program must pay a fee of $1,000 CAD for the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).

Compared with the sharp increase in the H-1B fee, these costs make Canada a far more affordable option for skilled workers and employers alike.

Pathways to working in Canada

Canada offers foreign nationals a number of options to live and work:

1. Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
   • Requires a job offer supported by an LMIA.
   • Designed to fill labour gaps in key sectors.
2. Intra-company transferees (ICT)
   • Ideal for multinational professionals moving to a Canadian branch.
   • Suitable for executives, managers and specialists with company-specific expertise.
3. Express Entry
   • A points-based system for skilled professionals.
   • Canadian work experience gained on a permit can increase a candidate’s Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.
4. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
   • More than eighty regional pathways tailored to local labour needs.
   • Requires an intention to live in the nominating province or territory.

The benefits of choosing to work in Canada

Unlike the temporary options available in the United States, Canada offers clearer pathways from a temporary work permit to permanent residence. Workers can bring a spouse through a spousal open work permit and later secure permanent residence for the whole family.

For many, starting with a work permit is the first step towards building Canadian work experience, which significantly improves their chances under Express Entry or a PNP.

With H-1B application costs rising, exploring opportunities in Canada makes both financial and professional sense. Canadian work permit fees remain affordable, and the immigration system offers a clear bridge from temporary work to permanent residence. For skilled workers aiming to build a stable future in North America, Canada is opening its doors.