The recent increase in H-1B visa fees by President Donald Trump presents a potential opportunity for Canada to attract skilled foreign workers. While some experts urge Canada to seize this moment, others caution about the country's own immigration challenges.

• President Trump's administration has increased H-1B visa application fees to $100,000 (£74,000), significantly impacting tech companies and highly educated foreign workers.
• Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has indicated his government is considering attracting these skilled professionals, noting that many historically went to the US.
• An earlier 2020 study by the National Bureau of Economic Research found that when faced with H-1B restrictions, US companies often moved skilled workers to Canada due to its more open immigration policies.
• A 2023 Canadian government program for US-based H-1B holders to obtain a three-year work permit in Canada attracted 10,000 applications within 24 hours, though permanent residency remains a challenge for many.
• Experts like economist Mikal Skuterud warn that Canada's immigration system needs further overhaul to become a consistently attractive destination, citing lower salaries and past policy changes.