The long expected Digital Nomad Visa 2024 from Canada targets freelancers and digital nomads globally.
Visa for Freelancers and Digital Nomads in Canada
This visa lets remote workers live in Canada without having to be in major cities. Ottawa has officially named remote workers "independent contractors."
The Trudeau government wants to simplify regulations so freelancers can work in Canada without being limited by geography. Canada will now allow freelancers to stay for 3 years instead of 6 months.
Digital nomads—independent contractors who can work wherever in Canada—will receive a visa. In the face of labor shortages, countries are reducing regulations and allowing remote work.
Canada used to limit digital nomads to six months on tourist visas.
A comprehensive "tech talent strategy" to attract overseas workers is being developed by the government to boost its workforce.
IRC spokesman Isabelle Dubois noted the potential benefits, "We expect some digital nomads to stay in Canada.
Isabelle Dubois, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada official, expects “some digital nomads will opt to stay in Canada, contributing their skills to employers here.”
Canada is also creating a framework to attract remote-working IT experts. Entrepreneurs can apply for three-year work licenses.
The Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Office will provide further information in the coming months.
Digital nomads now number 17.3 million, accounting for 11% of the workforce, according to MBO Partners.
The trend toward freelancing and remote employment is projected to continue in the following year.
