The $100K H-1B Visa Fee: Why It Might Be Time to Rethink Global Hiring Through a PEO
October 23, 2025In the ever-evolving world of technology, cities across North America are competing for the title of top tech hub. Recently, Vancouver made a significant leap, securing a spot in the top 10 tech talent cities on the continent. This achievement highlights not only the city’s growing strength in attracting skilled workers but also the expanding opportunities for Canadians to collaborate with American and international companies. Drawing inspiration from a recent report, let’s explore what this means for tech professionals and employers alike.
According to CBRE’s Scoring Tech Talent report (as covered by BIV) Vancouver climbed from 11th place last year to join the elite top-10 list of North America’s most attractive cities for tech talent. The rankings evaluate a range of factors, including labor market conditions, operational costs, talent quality, concentration of tech workers, average wages, diversity, and overall value to employers. With a tech talent pool of more than 125,100 skilled professionals—a 5.2% increase since 2021—Vancouver now boasts the 12th-largest such workforce in North America. Even more impressive is its tech-talent concentration at 52.4%, ranking third behind powerhouses like the San Francisco Bay Area and Seattle.
This surge isn’t just about numbers; it’s also about the quality and specialization of the workforce. Vancouver is home to around 8,300 AI-focused tech workers, leading the pack in AI talent concentration.
For Canadian tech workers, this ranking opens doors to exciting career opportunities with American and international companies. Many global firms are hiring remotely to tap into this rich talent pool. Canadians can leverage their skills in software development, AI, and other high-demand areas to work on innovative projects without leaving the country. The proximity to the U.S. border, combined with favorable time zones and cultural alignment, makes cross-border collaboration seamless.
On the flip side, American and international companies looking to expand their teams can easily access this top-tier Canadian talent. JobArc helps American companies hire Canadians, allowing them to focus on what matters: innovation and growth. They provide a streamlined solution with consolidated monthly billing in U.S. dollars, making it hassle-free. By using a PEO, businesses can quickly onboard diverse, high-value tech experts from Vancouver, boosting their competitive edge in the global market.
Vancouver’s ascent in the tech talent rankings is a win for everyone involved. It underscores Canada’s growing influence in the global tech landscape and encourages more cross-border partnerships. With JobArc, bridging the gap has never been easier.
