Once a week we provide you with a USA and Canada immigration law update. Your time is valuable, so we structure as a quick summary on all things American and Canadian immigration law related.

Business Immigration Success Stories

We are adding a new "Success Story" section to our weekly newsletter. This paragraph will highlight one example of a successful US or Canadian business immigration matter. We are fortunate to work with some amazing US and Canadian companies as legal support their US/CAN immigration matters.

American Success Story

We had the opportunity to work with a Canadian oilfield executive securing his L1 Visa in support of their US subsidiary. After working and residing in the US for 7+ years he has asked for our support to pursue his Green Card and American Citizenship long term.

UNITED STATES

USCIC Leadership Confirmation:

On July 15, 2025, Joseph Edlow was confirmed as the new director of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This appointment could influence processing efficiencies and policy directions for business visas.

H-2B Visa Cap Increase:

USCIS announced a temporary increase in H-2B nonimmigrant visas for FY 2025, with an additional 19,000 visas allocated for returning workers. As of April 18, 2025 the cap was reached, but this expansion supports seasonal businesses in non-agricultural sectors like hospitality and construction.

Self-Sponsored H-1B Visas for Entrepreneurs:

The U.S. government now allows for self-sponsored H-1B visas, enabling business owners to sponsor themselves for specialty occupation roles. this development is particularly beneficial for start-up founders and innovators seeking to establish or expand in the U.S.

Rise in Talent Visa Fillings:

USCIS reported a 20% jump in filings for O-1 (extraordinary ability) and EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW) visas in 2025, driven by sectors like AI and biotech. This trend reflects increased interest from global talent amid policy shifts.

H-1B Visa Approvals Amid Layoffs:

Despite U.S. layoffs, the administration approved an additional 85,000 H-1B visas for white-collar roles, plus 120,000 total including extensions. Companies like Microsoft filed for thousands, sparking debates on labour market impacts and calls for visa reform.

CANADA



Canada’s 2025 Immigration Levels Plan aims to welcome 395,000 new permanent residents, with approximately 60% targeted for economic categories, including business and skilled worker programs. This represents a reduction from 2024 levels but maintains a strong focus on economic growth through immigration. A recent Conference Board of Canada report indicates that this moderated intake could lead to wage boosts for workers, potentially benefiting businesses by improving labor market dynamics. 

Work Permit Processing Delays: 

As of June 27, 2025, estimated processing times for work permits and extensions have risen to 196 days, posing challenges for businesses relying on timely foreign talent acquisition. Employers are advised to plan ahead and explore expedited options where available. 

IRCC’s 2025-2026 Departmental Plan: 

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced major changes, including the establishment of a new pathway to permanent residence and the launch of a new work permit stream. These initiatives are designed to better support economic immigrants and streamline processes for business needs. 

Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) Updates: 

On July 2, 2025, Ontario introduced the Employer Portal, allowing businesses to initiate the immigration process by uploading job details. This change aims to enhance efficiency for employer-driven nominations under streams like the Employer Job Offer category. 

British Columbia Entrepreneur Immigration: 

Recent updates to the Entrepreneur Immigration - Base Stream emphasize support for international entrepreneurs establishing innovative businesses in BC. The program continues to prioritize ventures that drive economic growth, with no major changes reported in the last month but ongoing invitations for eligible candidates. 

Quebec Temporary Foreign Worker Permits Lawsuit:

Twenty-three Quebec business owners have filed a $300 million class-action      lawsuit against the federal government, alleging delays and denials in temporary foreign worker permits are harming operations. This highlights ongoing tensions in accessing short-term labor for businesses. 

Trends in Entrepreneur Support: 

Discussions around policy innovations include proposals for $20,000 start-up grants and a $500-million equity program for minority and immigrant entrepreneurs, aimed at addressing barriers like access to capital. While not yet implemented, these could expand opportunities in the coming months. Additionally, there’s growing concern about young entrepreneurs relocating to more business-friendly jurisdictions due to competitive global incentives. 

Based out of Calgary Canada we have been in operation for over 15 years. We work with large Fortune 500 companies, expanding mid-size businesses and rapidly growing small business operations involved with international opportunities in the USA and Canada.

ONETERRA IMMIGRATION | inquiries@oneterra.ca | www.oneterra.ca