The Global Talent Stream vs. Express Entry: Which is Faster for You?

Canada is a top destination for skilled professionals worldwide, offering multiple immigration pathways. Two popular routes - Global Talent Stream (GTS) and Express Entry - cater to different needs. While both aim to bring high-caliber talent to the country, they differ significantly in terms of processing times, eligibility criteria, and long-term benefits. So, which one is faster and better suited for you? Let’s break it down.

What is the Global Talent Stream (GTS)?

The Global Talent Stream is part of Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). It allows Canadian employers to quickly hire international talent in high-demand tech and STEM occupations. It’s primarily designed for employers who need to fill specialized roles urgently.

Key Features:

• Processing Time: Typically 10–14 business days for the work permit application, after the LMIA is approved.
• Job Offer Requirement: Mandatory. The employer must be eligible to hire under GTS.
• Occupational Focus: Emphasizes tech jobs, engineering, IT, and scientific roles.
• LMIA Required: Yes, but processed under a streamlined GTS-specific process.
• Employer Role: Must submit a Labor Market Benefits Plan outlining how the hire benefits the Canadian labor market.

What is Express Entry?

Express Entry is Canada’s flagship immigration system for skilled workers seeking permanent residency (PR). It uses a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) to rank candidates based on factors like age, education, language proficiency, and work experience.

Key Features:

• Processing Time: Around six months after receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
• Job Offer: Not mandatory but improves CRS score.
• Occupational Flexibility: Open to various skilled professions across sectors, not limited to tech.
• Permanent Residency: Direct pathway to PR, allowing settlement and access to benefits.

Processing Time: GTS vs. Express Entry

Speed is where the Global Talent Stream shines. If your goal is to start working in Canada as soon as possible, GTS can have you in the country within 2–3 weeks after approval. In contrast, Express Entry requires more documentation, and candidates often wait several months from profile submission to landing.

Winner for speed: Global Talent Stream

Long-Term Goals: Temporary Work vs. Permanent Residency

If your long-term goal is to settle permanently in Canada, Express Entry is the more direct route. However, many GTS workers eventually transition to permanent residency through pathways like the Canadian Experience Class, part of the Express Entry system, after gaining Canadian work experience.

Winner for PR seekers: Express Entry

Who Should Choose GTS?

You might prefer the Global Talent Stream if:

• You work in IT, AI, engineering, or another STEM-related field.
• You have a valid job offer from a Canadian company participating in the GTS program.
• You want to begin working quickly and plan to pursue PR later.

Who Should Choose Express Entry?

Express Entry may be better for you if:

• You seek direct permanent residency without a temporary work period.
• You score well under the CRS (education, language skills, age).
• You don’t have a job offer but have strong qualifications overall.

Your Immigration Pathway to Canada Awaits

Both the Global Talent Stream and Express Entry offer excellent opportunities for skilled workers to move to Canada. Your decision should be guided by your personal goals: If you need speed and have an employer offer, GTS is ideal. If your aim is long-term settlement, Express Entry offers a stable, direct route to permanent residency.

FAQs

Can I Apply for Both Global Talent Stream and Express Entry?

Yes, you can pursue both pathways simultaneously. For instance, you can come to Canada on a GTS work permit and later apply for permanent residency via Express Entry after gaining Canadian experience.

Does GTS Lead to Permanent Residency?

Not directly, but many GTS workers become eligible for Express Entry after one year of Canadian work experience, making it a strong stepping stone toward PR.

Do I Need a Job offer to apply for Express Entry?

No, a job offer is not required to create an Express Entry profile, but it can increase your CRS score and improve your chances of receiving an ITA.