US$100K for H-1B ? How Tech Professionals Can Get Canada PR Faster
- Tiffany Chia
- 15 hours ago
- 4 min read
The U.S. H-1B visa just became a $100,000 lottery ticket 💸
As of September 21, 2025, new petitions filed abroad now carry a staggering fee, putting dreams on hold for thousands of foreign tech workers in the United States.
But while the U.S. is raising barriers, Canada is opening doors. Prime Minister Mark Carney has already promised a “clear offering” to attract skilled workers hit by the H-1B fee — especially in tech.
👉 If you’re a software engineer, or AI specialist wondering what’s next, Canada offers faster, more affordable, and permanent options. Here’s how.
Why the $100K H-1B Fee Is a Turning Point ⚠️
Employers may no longer sponsor international talent — the cost is simply too high.
H-1B holders risk their future every time they change jobs or travel abroad.
The program still doesn’t lead directly to permanent residency.
By contrast, Canada is signaling the opposite: stability, affordability, and direct PR opportunities.
Canada’s Track Record: Programs That Worked 🚀
Canada isn’t starting from scratch. It has already shown global talent that it can move quickly:
H-1B Open Work Permit (2023): Capped at 10,000 applications — and filled in just one day.
Innovation Stream (2024): LMIA-exempt work permits for talent hired by Global Hypergrowth Project employers.
Global Talent Stream (TFWP): Employers hiring tech talent get 2-week processing targets for work permits.
These programs prove a point: when Canada opens a tech pathway, demand is overwhelming.
Canadian Work Permit Pathways for Tech Workers
1. Global Talent Stream
Requires an LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment), but processing is fast.
Great for software engineers, IT analysts, and data scientists.
2. Innovation Stream (IMP)
LMIA-exempt.
For foreign workers with offers from designated “hypergrowth” firms.
3. Intra-Company Transfers
For multinational companies moving key staff from a U.S. office to Canada.
Covers execs, managers, and specialized knowledge workers.
Permanent Residency Options for Tech Workers
Canada’s biggest advantage? You don’t get stuck in visa limbo — you can apply directly for PR.
Express Entry
Canada’s flagship skilled worker system.
Since 2023, includes STEM category-based draws
Example: On April 11, 2024, a STEM draw invited 4,500 candidates at CRS 491, lower than many general draws.
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
Ontario Tech Draws: Target AI, software, and IT occupations.
BC Tech: Invites tech workers periodically based on demand.
Alberta Accelerated Tech Pathway: Prioritizes nominations for eligible tech professionals.
Why Canada PR Beats the US$100K H-1B Fee
While the U.S. now requires a US$100K fee for new H-1B petitions, Canada’s PR pathways are far more affordable and secure:
Express Entry STEM draws have invited thousands of candidates with lower CRS cut-offs, giving tech workers a faster path to PR.
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) in Ontario, BC, and Alberta target IT and engineering professionals, with nomination fees typically under CAD $2,000.
Work permit routes like the Global Talent Stream and Innovation Stream cost a fraction of the H-1B and often lead directly to PR.
100K H-1B vs Canada PR: Costs & Timelines
Pathway | Processing Time | Government Fees | PR Opportunity |
U.S. H-1B (2025) | 6–12 months + $100K fee | US$100,000+ | ❌ No direct PR |
Canada Express Entry (STEM) | Often ~6–12 months | ~CAD $1,525 | ✅ Direct PR |
Ontario/BC/ Alberta Tech PNP | 3–6 months (nomination) + PR | ~CAD $1,500 + PR fees | ✅ PR via PNP |
Global Talent Stream | Target: 2 weeks (work permit) | ~CAD $1,550 | 🚀 PR later via Express Entry/PNP |
(Processing times are typical — always check IRCC’s latest estimates.)
5 Tips to Pivot from H-1B to Canada
Create your Express Entry profile now — don’t wait until caps open.
Book your ECA and language test early (IELTS or CELPIP).
Stay alert for new Canada programs — past H-1B streams filled in a single day.
Explore PNPs if your CRS is lower — a nomination guarantees 600 extra points.
Think long-term: PR in Canada means freedom to work, study, and bring your family.
FAQs: H-1B to Canada
1. Can I apply for Express Entry while in the U.S. on H-1B?
Yes — location doesn’t matter.
2. Will Canada reopen the H-1B Open Work Permit?
The 2023 stream is closed, but PM Carney has signaled new measures are coming. Stay tuned!
3. Do I need a Canadian job offer for Express Entry?
Not required, but Canadian work experience will boost your CRS score.
4. What CRS scores are needed for STEM draws?
They vary — e.g., CRS 491 in April 2024.
Always check IRCC’s latest rounds. Follow our social media channels (@1to1immigration) for the latest Express Entry Draw Results!
5. Can I include my spouse and kids?
Yes, your family are included in your PR application.
Final Thoughts
The U.S. just turned the H-1B into a US$100K barrier 💸.
For many, that’s too costly and uncertain.
Canada’s Prime Minister has said clearly: Canada wants this talent.
👉 If you’re a tech worker weighing your next move, don’t wait for U.S. lawsuits or political shifts. Canada offers stability, affordability, and a clear path to PR for you and your family.
Contact us today to explore your Canadian PR options — before the new program is released!