Both the UK and Canada offer excellent opportunities for talented individuals from around the world to work, live, and contribute to their economies. If you’re looking to move to either country, understanding the differences between the UK Global Talent Visa and Canada’s Global Talent Stream (GTS) can help you make an informed choice.
What is the Global Talent Visa (UK)?
The Global Talent Visa is a UK immigration route designed to attract skilled individuals in fields like science, engineering, humanities, digital technology, and the arts. Launched on 20th February 2020, it replaced the Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) Visa. Successful applicants can work in the UK for up to five years without needing a sponsor. However, they must first be endorsed by one of six approved bodies:
- The Royal Society (for science and medicine)
- The British Academy (for humanities)
- The Royal Academy of Engineering (for engineering)
- Arts Council England (for arts and culture)
- Tech Nation (for digital technology)
- UK Research and Innovation (for research)
How Does the Global Talent Visa Work?
The process involves two stages:
- Endorsement: You first need an endorsement from one of the above bodies, proving that you are a leader or potential leader in your field.
- Visa Application: Once endorsed, you apply to the UK Home Office for the actual visa. They will assess your application to ensure you meet all the necessary requirements.
Processing Time: The application can take up to 8 weeks, but it might be faster if you’re working at an approved UK research organization.
Costs:
- Visa Application Fee: £152 (or £97 for applicants from Turkey or North Macedonia)
- Dependent Fee: £608 per dependent
- Healthcare Surcharge: This is an additional fee for accessing the National Health Service (NHS).
What is the Global Talent Stream (Canada)?
The Global Talent Stream (GTS) is part of Canada’s Global Skills Strategy and aims to bring in highly skilled foreign nationals for roles that are hard to fill with local workers. The program, which started on 12th June 2017, allows Canadian employers to speed up the hiring process for specialized positions.
How Does the Global Talent Stream Work?
Unlike the UK Global Talent Visa, applicants cannot apply directly for the GTS. Instead, a Canadian employer must first offer you a job and apply for the program on your behalf. There are two main categories:
- Category A (Designated Partner Referral): Employers referred by GTS partners who are hiring specialized talent.
- Category B (In-Demand Occupations): Employers hiring for positions listed on Canada’s Global Talent Occupation List.
Once an employer is approved, you can apply for a work permit.
Processing Time: Applications are processed in 10 business days, and work permits are processed in another 10 business days.
Costs:
- The employer must pay a $1,000 fee for each role they want to hire under GTS.
What Makes the UK Global Talent Visa a Better Option?
While both the UK and Canada offer excellent opportunities, the UK Global Talent Visa stands out for several reasons:
- Flexibility in Employment: You can change jobs or employers without needing to inform the Home Office.
- Self-Employment: Successful applicants can work as freelancers or consultants in their field.
- No Cap on Visas: There’s no limit to how many visas can be granted under the Global Talent Visa, making it easier for skilled professionals to enter the UK.
- Path to Settlement: Applicants and their dependents can apply for permanent settlement after just 3 years if they meet the requirements.
- Study Opportunities: While this is a work visa, you can also study a specific subject after obtaining an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate.
The Verdict: Which Option is Right for You?
Both the UK and Canada are top destinations for skilled professionals, and both offer attractive immigration routes. However, the UK Global Talent Visa provides more flexibility for workers, including the ability to change employers, work as a freelancer, and access a fast track to settlement.
As the UK introduces a new global immigration system starting 1st January 2021, it’s set to become even more accessible to skilled talent from all over the world. If you’re considering a career in the UK, the Global Talent Visa could be the ideal route for you.
For guidance and support with your Global Talent Visa application, Law and Visas can help you navigate the process and maximize your chances of success.
