Immigration challenges are a significant concern for both employers and employees, particularly in the United States. With the H-1B visa lottery system becoming increasingly competitive, many skilled professionals, especially those in STEM fields, are left in limbo, unsure of their future in the US and US companies are left wondering how to retain tech talent vital to their operations and success.
In this article, we share a conversation with Laura Bloniarz, a California-based immigration attorney with WR Immigration, who discovered how Syndesus could offer a lifeline to her clients—and potentially to herself—amid the uncertainties of the US immigration system.
For companies that rely on these talented individuals, the uncertainty can disrupt operations and hinder growth. However, a viable alternative that is gaining traction is relocating employees to Canada through the Global Talent Stream program. This pathway not only provides a solution for employees who fail to secure an H-1B visa but also offers long-term benefits for both employers and employees.
At Syndesus, we specialize in helping immigrants overcome the hurdles of US immigration, empowering them to continue thriving in their careers with US-based employers—remotely from Canada. Through tailored support and expertise, we provide a seamless transition for skilled workers seeking stability and opportunity in Canada.
Laura’s story is one of exploration, collaboration, and finding innovative solutions for her clients in a complex immigration landscape.
The H-1B lottery was a growing challenge for Laura’s clients
As an immigration attorney, Laura has seen firsthand the frustrations and challenges that come with the US H-1B visa lottery system. Many of her clients are highly skilled professionals—engineers, developers, and tech leads—who face the harsh reality of not being selected in the lottery. For these individuals, the uncertainty can be devastating, both personally and professionally.
“A lot of my clients are in tech, and they’re often young professionals who’ve built their lives in the US,” explains Laura. “When they don’t get picked in the H-1B lottery, it’s a huge blow. They’re left scrambling for alternatives, like CPT or other temporary solutions, but those are just band-aids. They need a long-term solution.”
One of Laura’s clients, a tech lead for a reinsurance company in Dallas, was a prime example. The company had been using the Curricular Practical Training (CPT) program to keep him employed, but it was far from ideal. “CPT is expensive, time-consuming, and not a sustainable solution,” Laura says. “The company knew they needed to explore other options, but they didn’t want to set up a Canadian entity just for one employee. That’s when I started looking into Syndesus.”
Syndesus was a game-changer for Laura’s practice
Laura’s introduction to Syndesus came at a conference, where she met a representative from the company. Intrigued by the possibilities, Laura began exploring how the Global Talent Stream (GTS) program could benefit her clients.
“I was immediately impressed by how Syndesus simplifies the process,” says Laura. “They act as the Employer of Record (EOR) in Canada, so my clients’ employers don’t have to set up a Canadian entity. It’s a win-win for everyone.”
The GTS program allows skilled workers to relocate to Canada quickly, often within 90 days, and provides a pathway to permanent residency. For Laura’s clients, this was a game-changer. “It’s a stable, long-term solution that doesn’t require the employer to make a huge investment,” she explains. “And for the employee, it’s a chance to build a new life in Canada while continuing to work for their US employer.”
It was a seamless transition for Laura’s clients
One of Laura’s clients, a tech lead in Dallas, was a perfect candidate for the GTS program. The company had been reluctant to set up a Canadian entity just for one employee, but Syndesus’s EOR model made the transition seamless.
“Syndesus handled everything—payroll, taxes, compliance—so the company didn’t have to worry about setting up a Canadian office,” Laura says. “And for the employee, it was a chance to gain stability and eventually apply for permanent residency in Canada.”
The process was straightforward and efficient. “Syndesus made it so easy! They provided a clear breakdown of the costs, the timeline, and what to expect. It was a relief to have such a reliable partner.”
Laura’s clients were offered stability, opportunity, and a fresh start
For Laura’s clients, the move to Canada offers more than just a solution to their visa struggles. It’s an opportunity to build a new life in a country that values skilled workers and offers a high quality of life.
“Canada is a great option for my clients,” Laura adds. “It’s stable, it’s welcoming, and it offers a pathway to permanent residency. Plus, they can continue working for their US employer, so they don’t have to start over in their careers.”
Laura also appreciates the cost-effectiveness of the GTS program. “The setup fee is around CAD 18,000, and the monthly costs are reasonable,” she explains. “When you compare that to the cost of H-1B applications or setting up a Canadian entity, it’s a no-brainer.”
A new perspective for Laura’s practice
Working with Syndesus has given Laura a new perspective on how to help her clients navigate the complexities of US immigration. “It’s not just about saying ‘no’ or ‘wait 20 years,’” she said. “There are other options out there, and Syndesus is one of the best.”
Laura is now exploring how she can incorporate Syndesus’s services into her practice more broadly. “I think this could be a great option for a lot of my clients,” she said. “It’s something I’ll definitely be bringing up in my consultations.”
Immigration attorneys have more options than they realize
Laura plans to continue working with Syndesus to help her clients explore new opportunities in Canada. She’s also considering how the GTS program could benefit her own career. “As an immigration attorney, I’m always looking for ways to expand my knowledge and offer more to my clients,” she said. “Syndesus has been a great partner in that journey.”
When asked what advice she would give to other immigration attorneys, Laura didn’t hesitate. “Don’t be afraid to explore new options,” she said. “Syndesus has the expertise and the resources to make the transition seamless. It’s a win-win for everyone.”
What will your Syndesus journey look like?
Laura’s story is just one example of how Syndesus can help immigration attorneys and their clients navigate the challenges of US immigration and build a new life in Canada. Whether you’re facing visa uncertainty, looking for a pathway to permanent residency, or simply exploring new opportunities, Syndesus is here to help.
If you’re ready to take the first step, book a free consultation with Syndesus today. Your journey to a brighter future in Canada starts here.
