Global Talent Stream Canada Requirements:
Category A, Category B, Occupation List & LMBP
Fast-Track Hiring of Highly Skilled Foreign Talent in Canada
The Global Talent Stream (GTS) is part of Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker Program, designed to help employers hire highly skilled foreign workers with fast LMIA processing (as little as 10 business days).
There are two categories under GTS, depending on the type of talent being hired:
Category A – Unique & Specialized Talent
Category A is designed for high-growth, innovative companies in Canada.
Eligibility:
- Must be referred by a designated referral partner
- Hiring unique and specialized talent
- Company must demonstrate growth potential and innovation
Key Requirement:
- Mandatory LMBP Commitment:
✔ Job creation for Canadians and permanent residents
Category B – In-Demand Occupations
Category B is for employers hiring workers in high-demand occupations listed on the Global Talent Occupations List.
Eligibility:
- No referral required
- Occupation must be on the Global Talent Occupations List
Key Requirement:
- Mandatory LMBP Commitment:
✔ Investment in skills and training for Canadians and permanent residents
Global Talent Occupations List (Category B)
Below are sample in-demand occupations under Category B:
Tech & IT
- Computer and Information Systems Managers (NOC 20012)
- Software Engineers & Designers
- Data Scientists
- Web Designers & Developers
Engineering
- Civil Engineers (NOC 21300)
- Electrical & Electronics Engineers (NOC 21310)
- Computer Engineers
- Aerospace Engineers
Digital Media & Creative
- Digital Media Designers
- Animation & VFX Artists
- Interactive Media Developers
These occupations are considered high-demand with insufficient local labour supply in Canada.
Labour Market Benefits Plan (LMBP)
A Labour Market Benefits Plan (LMBP) is a mandatory requirement for all GTS LMIA applications.
It is developed in collaboration with Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) and outlines how hiring foreign talent will benefit the Canadian labour market long-term.
1. Mandatory Benefits
Each category has a core commitment:
- Category A:
✔ Job creation for Canadians - Category B:
✔ Skills and training investments
These are non-negotiable and must be clearly defined in the LMBP.
2. Complementary Benefits (Minimum 2 Required)
Employers must also commit to at least two additional benefits, such as:
- Knowledge transfer to Canadian employees
- Providing internships or co-op placements
- Enhancing company performance and growth
- Implementing best workplace practices
- Supporting diversity and inclusion initiatives
- Training programs for Canadian workers
Each benefit must include at least one measurable activity.
Examples of LMBP Activities
- Hiring more Canadians (full-time or part-time)
- Partnering with universities or training institutions
- Offering paid internships or co-op programs
- Providing employee upskilling or certifications
- Mentorship programs led by foreign talent
- Hosting industry workshops or training sessions
Why the LMBP Matters
The LMBP ensures that hiring foreign talent will:
✔ Create jobs for Canadians
✔ Strengthen workforce skills
✔ Drive innovation and company growth
✔ Support long-term economic benefits
Failure to meet LMBP commitments may result in employer compliance issues or penalties.
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How Adapt Immigration Can Help
At Adapt Immigration, we assist employers with:
- GTS eligibility assessment (Category A or B)
- Occupation classification (NOC alignment)
- Full LMIA application preparation
- Development of a strong, compliant LMBP
- Ongoing compliance and documentation support