The United States’ decision to impose a steep $100,000 fee on H-1B visas is reshaping global talent migration. The move, aimed at protecting American jobs, is expected to reduce the number of foreign workers companies hire. However, it also creates a significant opportunity for other countries to attract highly skilled professionals — especially from India and China.
Canada Steps In With a Welcoming Proposal
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced that Canada will introduce new policies to welcome skilled foreign workers who may now find the “American dream” unaffordable. “These people are skilled and enterprising. This is an opportunity for Canada,” Carney stated, highlighting plans to bring in new proposals designed to make Canada the preferred destination for global talent.
UK and Germany Join the Race for Talent
Canada isn’t alone in this strategic move. The United Kingdom is exploring a zero-fee visa system for top global talent, including graduates from leading universities and prestigious award winners. Meanwhile, Germany has openly invited skilled Indian workers, with Ambassador Dr. Philipp Ackermann noting that Indians in Germany often earn above-average salaries and significantly contribute to the economy.
Indians Already Lead Immigration to Canada
Indians are already the largest group of immigrants to Canada, and the new policies are expected to strengthen this trend. Between April 2022 and March 2023, around 15,000 out of 32,000 tech workers who migrated to Canada were Indian. In 2024 alone, 87,000 Indians became Canadian citizens, and over 118,000 secured permanent residency in 2022 — about 30% of all new permanent residents.
A New Era for Global Talent Mobility
As the US becomes less attractive due to rising visa costs, countries like Canada, the UK, and Germany are positioning themselves as global talent magnets. This shift could mark the beginning of a new era where skilled professionals follow opportunity — not geography — and nations compete to offer the most inclusive and rewarding ecosystems for global talent.
