A new study by The Technology Councils of North America (TECNA) and Canada’s Tech Network (CTN) reveals that more than 32,000 global tech workers moved to Canada between April 2022 and March 2023. This trend highlights Canada’s growing appeal as a global destination for technology professionals.
This blog breaks down the key insights from the TECNA–CTN report, explains why Canada is attracting international tech talent, and explores the country’s most attractive tech hubs.
Why Tech Workers Are Moving to Canada
According to the report, Canada’s popularity among tech workers is driven largely by:
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Immigration-friendly national policies
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Competitive labour costs
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Growth of remote and hybrid work
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Strong investment from U.S. tech companies
The rise of remote work accelerated by COVID-19 has reduced dependence on traditional tech hubs and allowed skilled professionals to relocate more freely across North America.
Top Source Countries for Global Tech Workers
The study identifies India, Nigeria, and Brazil as the leading countries sending tech workers to Canada. These professionals are helping strengthen Canada’s innovation ecosystem while meeting growing labour demands.
Canada’s tech workforce continues to expand beyond major cities. In 2022, the country had over 400,000 software developers, with smaller provinces like Saskatchewan and Newfoundland and Labrador seeing 16.3% year-over-year growth.
Rural centres are also benefiting. For example, Windsor, Ontario, recorded a 28% increase in tech workers, largely due to remote work flexibility.
Most In-Demand Tech Skills in Canada
The report highlights several skills currently in high demand:
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Microsoft Azure
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Analytical and Data Science skills
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React.js
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Jira and GitHub
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Customer Experience and CRM
These insights are particularly useful for international tech professionals planning a move to Canada.
Canada’s Most Attractive Tech Hubs
The TECNA–CTN study ranked Canadian cities based on their ability to attract and retain tech talent. The top three are:
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Mississauga, Ontario
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Montreal, Quebec
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Waterloo, Ontario
Let’s take a closer look at what makes each city unique.
Mississauga, Ontario
Mississauga is home to over 300,000 ICT workers, making it North America’s second-largest ICT cluster. Nearly 1,000 IT companies operate here, including Microsoft, Oracle, IBM, HP, and Cognizant.
A key driver of growth is the Mississauga Innovation & Technology Acceleration Program (MITAP), which supports startups with funding, mentorship, and resources.
Major firms such as SOTI, Guidewire Software, Infosys, and HCL Technologies also operate here. With the population expected to reach 995,000 by 2051, Mississauga remains a long-term tech powerhouse.
Montreal, Quebec
Montreal is Canada’s second-largest tech market and a global leader in artificial intelligence (AI). The city’s tech population grew by 31% between 2015 and 2020.
Global companies including Google, Microsoft, Meta, Samsung, and Intel have a strong presence here. Montreal also hosts over 200 game development studios, such as Ubisoft, EA, and WB Games.
The city is known for producing successful tech companies like CGI, Hopper, Element AI, Imagia, and Nuvei. Major events such as Startupfest and MTL Connect further strengthen the startup ecosystem.
Education plays a key role, with nearly 18,000 students enrolled in tech-related programs across Montreal.
Waterloo, Ontario
Waterloo is recognized worldwide as a top startup ecosystem, with more than 1,570 tech-related companies, including BlackBerry and D2L.
The presence of institutions like the University of Waterloo, Wilfrid Laurier University, and Conestoga College ensures a steady pipeline of skilled graduates.
Waterloo’s high quality of life and strong venture capital support contribute to an ICT startup survival rate nearly double the global average.
Canada’s Strategy to Attract Global Tech Talent
Canada is actively strengthening its position as a global tech destination through initiatives such as:
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Tech Talent Strategy
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Innovation Stream under the International Mobility Program (IMP)
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Digital nomad pathways
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Simplified work permits for U.S. H-1B visa holders
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Improved services for high-skilled tech workers
Express Entry Draws for Tech and STEM Workers
On June 28, 2023, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) introduced category-based Express Entry draws. One targeted category focuses on STEM professionals.
The first draw for this group took place on July 5, 2023, inviting 500 candidates with a minimum CRS score of 486 to apply for permanent residence.
Key Takeaways
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Canada continues to attract tech workers globally
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Remote work is reshaping migration patterns
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India, Nigeria, and Brazil are top talent sources
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Tech growth is expanding into smaller cities
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Mississauga, Montreal, and Waterloo lead as tech hubs
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Government programs actively support tech immigration
Canada’s combination of opportunity, innovation, and inclusive immigration policies positions it as one of the world’s most attractive destinations for tech professionals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do tech workers prefer Canada?
Because of immigration-friendly policies, competitive wages, strong tech ecosystems, and remote work opportunities.
How did COVID-19 influence tech migration?
It accelerated remote work, allowing professionals to relocate outside traditional tech hubs.
Which tech skills are most in demand?
Cloud platforms, data science, analytical tools, and customer experience technologies.
How does Canada attract international tech talent?
Through the Tech Talent Strategy, Express Entry draws, digital nomad policies, and streamlined work permits.
What is the goal of tech-focused Express Entry draws?
To bring skilled STEM professionals who can contribute to Canada’s long-term economic growth.
Check out our Web Story at https://celpip.biz/web-stories/global-tech-workers-are-flocking-to-canada/
