The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) is Ontario’s economic immigration initiative designed to attract skilled workers, international students, and business owners to the province. This blog provides an in-depth overview of the Employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker Stream, a key component of the OINP. Another key component is the Human Capital Priorities Stream, which focuses on skilled foreign workers and aligns with Canada’s federal Express Entry system. While this summary highlights the main points, it’s crucial to consult detailed program guidelines for comprehensive information.
Understanding the OINP Foreign Worker Stream
The OINP Foreign Worker Stream is an employer-driven program, not a visa program. Employers play a crucial role in nominating foreign workers for permanent residence. Candidates must receive a ‘notification of interest’ (NOI) from the Ontario government before they can apply for nomination under the OINP. Typically, this stream is considered 1-2 years before a Canadian work permit expires to expedite the Permanent Residence/Express Entry process. Employers may need to obtain a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to demonstrate that hiring a foreign worker will not adversely affect the local labor market.
OINP Employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker Stream
Overview
The Employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker Stream targets skilled foreign workers with job offers in Ontario. The In Demand Skills Stream targets job positions in specific TEER categories, particularly focusing on positions classified under TEER categories 4 or 5. Here are the key points:
Eligibility Criteria
Job Offer Requirements:
- The job offer must fall under TEER (Training, Education, Experience, and Responsibilities) categories 0, 1, 2, or 3 of the National Occupational Classification (NOC).
- The position must be permanent and full-time, and the employer must have a minimum number of full-time employees at the work location.
- Job offers should be carefully considered to ensure they do not negatively impact the employment status of a person involved in a labour dispute.
- This stream is open to foreign workers both inside and outside Canada.
- Physicians and self-employed professionals are also eligible.
Application Process
1. Expression of Interest (EOI):
- Register an expression of interest (EOI) in the OINP system to express your interest in the program.
2. Invitation to Apply:
- If your EOI is selected, you will receive an invitation to apply online for nomination by the Ontario government.
3. Provincial Nomination:
- Once nominated, you can apply to the federal government through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), which makes the final decision on permanent residency.
- Applicants must have a valid work permit if they are currently in Ontario. If they do not, additional steps regarding recruitment efforts for Canadian citizens or permanent residents must be adhered to in the application process.
4. Job Offer Requirements
- The job offer must adhere to specific criteria, including effective dates and approved minimum wages.
- The job offer must not negatively impact the employment status of individuals involved in a labour dispute.
- It should meet the terms and conditions stipulated by the OINP.
- A positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from Service Canada is required to confirm that hiring a foreign worker will not adversely affect the local labor market.
5. Next Steps:
- If nominated, apply to IRCC for permanent residence.
Scoring Factors for OINP
The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program assigns points based on various factors, including:
- Length of Employment: The duration of your employment in Ontario.
- Education: Your educational qualifications. The number of family members, including both accompanying and non-accompanying dependents, is a critical factor in calculating the required settlement amounts.
- Type of Job Offered: The category and nature of the job offered.
- Wage: The salary offered for the position.
- Location: The geographic location of the job within Ontario.
- Language Proficiency: Your ability to communicate in English or French.
Timing and Application Considerations for OINP
The entire application process can take between 1-2 years. If you are currently in Ontario with another work permit, it’s essential to consider this timeline when planning to apply for express entry or extending your work authorization to enhance your scores.
Successful nominees must apply for permanent resident status within a specific timeframe and meet the necessary commitments outlined in the Performance Agreement.
Upon a successful application, you will receive:
- A nomination approval letter.
- A work permit support letter (if applicable).
- A nomination certificate.
Syndesus Can Help
As a fully dedicated Employer of Record, Syndesus is uniquely positioned to support candidates navigating the OINP Job Offer Stream. Our expertise and resources ensure a smooth and efficient process, from the initial expression of interest to securing permanent residence.
Syndesus can also assist candidates in including their common-law partner among family members considered in various eligibility criteria for the OINP.
Take the Next Step
Contact Syndesus today to learn how we can assist you in successfully navigating the OINP process and securing your future in Ontario. Our team is ready to provide the support and guidance you need to achieve your immigration goals.
The content and materials available via Syndesus are for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice.
