Legal definition of Highly Skilled Migrant
A highly skilled migrant is an individual who possesses specialized skills, high academic or professional qualifications, and recognized expertise in a specific field. These migrants are often sought after by countries to fill skill shortages in key sectors such as technology, engineering, medicine, scientific research, and other fields requiring a high level of expertise.
To attract highly skilled migrants, governments implement specific residency permit programs targeting professionals with specialized skills and high academic qualifications. These initiatives aim to address shortages in key sectors such as technology, engineering, and medicine. By attracting these experts, countries seek to stimulate innovation, enhance economic competitiveness, and foster technological development.
Specialized residency permit programs aimed at highly skilled migrants are well-known worldwide
United States
H-1B Visa: The U.S. H-1B visa is for skilled professionals in fields like technology, engineering, and medicine. It allows employers to recruit foreign talent to address skill shortages. Granted for three years, it is renewable and provides a pathway to a green card.
Canada
Express Entry Program for Skilled Workers: Canada offers the Express Entry Program, targeting professionals with work experience and high qualifications. This program facilitates immigration of skilled workers to meet Canada’s labor market needs and promote economic growth. Candidates can obtain permanent residence quickly.
United Kingdom
Tier 2 (General) Visa / Skilled Worker Visa: The UK offers the Tier 2 (General) Visa / Skilled Worker Visa for qualified workers with a job offer from an approved employer. This visa helps address specific skill shortages in the UK, initially granted for up to five years and renewable.
Talent Passport (Passeport Talent)
In France, the Talent Passport is for qualified workers, researchers, entrepreneurs, and artists. This program facilitates immigration for individuals with particular skills contributing to the French economy in various professional and artistic sectors.
Employment Pass
Singapore offers the Employment Pass for foreign professionals, managers, and executives with a job offer and specific qualifications. This visa allows Singaporean employers to recruit international talent to support economic growth and innovation across various sectors.