Ontario’s Express Entry Skilled Trades Stream

Ontario’s Express Entry Skilled Trades Stream, a segment of the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP), provides foreign nationals with Ontario work experience in eligible skilled trades an opportunity to seek permanent residence in Ontario, Canada. This stream is integrated with the federal Express Entry system, designed to attract individuals with valuable trade skills to contribute to Ontario’s workforce and community.

Steps to Apply:

To be eligible for Ontario’s Express Entry Skilled Trades Stream, applicants must adhere to the following steps:

1. Express Entry Profile:

   • Maintain a valid profile in Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada’s (IRCC’s) Express Entry system.

   • Receive a Notification of Interest (NOI) from Ontario before applying online for nomination.

2. Nomination and Federal Application:

   • Upon receiving an NOI, candidates can apply online for nomination by the Ontario government for permanent residence.

   • Successful nominees must then apply to the federal government through IRCC, where the final decision on permanent residency is made.

Stream Requirements:

1. Work Experience:

   • Accumulate at least one year of cumulative paid full-time work experience in eligible skilled trades in Ontario within the last two years.

   • The work experience must be in occupations specified under NOC Major Groups 72, 73, 82, 83, 93, or Minor Group 6320.

   • Cumulative work experience is considered, and it must align with the occupations identified in the Express Entry profile.

2. Valid Certificate or Licence (if applicable):

   • For those claiming work experience in a compulsory trade, a valid certificate or licence in Ontario is mandatory.

   • The certificate or licence must be valid at the time of application and should cover the period of work experience being used to meet the minimum requirement.

3. Current Residence in Ontario and Legal Status:

   • Applicants must be residing in Ontario and hold a valid work permit at the time of application.

   • Implied status is considered if a work permit application to IRCC has been submitted before its expiry date, allowing continued residence and work.

4. Language Proficiency:

   • Demonstrate language proficiency in English or French at a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 5 or higher.

   • Accepted language tests include IELTS (General Training), CELPIP (General), TEF, or TCF Canada.

5. Settlement Funds:

   • Provide evidence of adequate funds to support oneself and dependents in Canada.

   • Acceptable financial sources include bank statements, ongoing employment in Ontario, or a job offer in the province.

6. Intention to Live in Ontario:

   • Express a genuine intention to reside in Ontario after obtaining permanent residence.

   • Indicators may include a history of work, job applications, studying, volunteering, property ownership, visits, professional networks, and personal relationships in Ontario.

Note: The detailed requirements provided in section 12 of Ontario Regulation 422/17 should be thoroughly reviewed.

How AKM Law Can Help:

Applying for Ontario’s Express Entry Skilled Trades Stream has some specific rules. At AKM Law, we're here to make it easy for you. Our experienced team will guide you through every step, from making your profile to sending in your documents. We're committed to helping you meet all the tough criteria for a successful nomination. If you want to make your dream of living in Ontario a reality, book a consultation with AKM Law.