Canada’s Global Skills Strategy can help certain highly skilled foreign workers begin working in Canada sooner. IRCC aims to process eligible and complete work permit applications within two weeks.
This is a service target, not a guaranteed approval date. The worker, job offer and application must meet all current requirements.
What Is the Global Skills Strategy?
The Global Skills Strategy provides faster processing for certain employer-specific work permits. Both LMIA-required and LMIA-exempt jobs may qualify.
Who Can Qualify for Two-Week Processing?
Two main groups may qualify:
LMIA-Exempt Skilled Workers
The applicant must qualify for an employer-specific, LMIA-exempt work permit. The position must be classified as TEER 0 or TEER 1.
Open work permits and International Experience Canada applications do not qualify for GSS two-week processing.
Workers Hired Through the Global Talent Stream
The worker may also qualify after the employer receives a positive LMIA through the Global Talent Stream.
The programs are different. Employers use the Global Talent Stream to obtain an LMIA. Workers use the Global Skills Strategy for faster permit processing.
Important 2026 Rules for Employers
On September 18, 2026, ESDC clarified who qualifies as an employer under the Global Talent Stream. The employer must hire the worker, control the working conditions and pay the worker directly.
A staffing agency that only recruits for another business is not the employer. Employers also cannot classify these workers as independent contractors to avoid program duties.
These requirements are explained in the Global Talent Stream program rules.
IRCC may examine whether the offer is genuine. Faster processing does not reduce compliance, document or admissibility requirements.
How to Keep the Application Eligible
Most applicants must apply online from outside Canada. A complete application may require:
- An employment contract and job-offer documents
- An offer number, exemption code and compliance-fee receipt for LMIA-exempt work
- A positive Global Talent Stream LMIA for LMIA-required work
- Certified translations
- Medical results, police certificates and local visa-office documents when required
Applicants must provide biometrics within two weeks of receiving their instruction letter. Processing begins after IRCC has a complete application and the required biometrics.
Can Family Members Receive Faster Processing?
Family members may receive faster processing for a visitor visa, work permit or study permit when they apply together.
Each person must submit a complete application, provide biometrics on time and qualify for the document requested.
Special Fast Processing for Certain Doctors
Eligible doctors may qualify for 14-day processing from inside or outside Canada.
This applies to NOC 31100, 31101 and 31102. A full-time, non-seasonal offer and a Provincial Nominee Program support letter are required.
Can Highly Skilled Workers Work Without a Permit?
Some TEER 0 or 1 workers may work without a permit for:
- Up to 15 consecutive days once every six months; or
- Up to 30 consecutive days once every 12 months.
Eligible researchers may work for up to 120 days every 12 months at a qualifying public institution.
The worker must prove eligibility at the border and receive a visitor record marked “authorized to work.” This exemption is separate from two-week processing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a two-week decision guaranteed?
No. Medical exams, missing documents, biometrics or further review can cause delays.
Can an open work permit receive GSS processing?
No. GSS two-week processing applies to qualifying employer-specific work permits.
Can a GSS application be submitted from inside Canada?
Generally, no. Most applicants must apply online from outside Canada. Certain eligible doctors have a separate in-Canada option.
Final Thoughts
The Global Skills Strategy can reduce waiting time for skilled workers and employers. Before applying, confirm the NOC, permit category, LMIA or exemption code, and all supporting documents.
Reach out to our team at info@visaserve.ca or call 905-203-2266 to speak with an experienced Canadian immigration lawyer.
