In today’s blog update, we’ll tell you a good news! Ontario has eased Immigration for Nurses and Trade Workers. So we highly suggest you to read the full blog till the end so you don’t miss any important updates.
New Pathways for Nurses via Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP)
Ontario is simplifying immigration for foreign nationals in healthcare by amending its Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP). This includes changes to the Express Entry Human Capital Priorities, French-Speaking Skilled Worker streams, and the Employer Job Offer In-Demand Skills stream.
Provincial Immigration Minister David Piccini emphasized, “Newcomers play a crucial role in growing our economy.” By removing barriers, Ontario aims to attract more top-tier talent and address healthcare staffing challenges.
Exemptions for Registered Nurses
Under the new rules, internationally-educated nurses registered with the College of Nurses of Ontario can qualify for the OINP without a bachelor’s degree
Eligible roles include:
- NOC 31300
Nursing coordinators and supervisors
- NOC 31301
Registered nurses and registered psychiatric nurses
- NOC 31302
Nurse practitioners
- NOC 32101
Licensed practical nurses
This change provides internationally-educated nurses a streamlined path to provincial nomination, permanent residency, and citizenship.
Donna Duncan, CEO of the Ontario Long Term Care Association, highlighted the urgent need for more nurses in long-term care homes, noting that regulatory amendments will help internationally-educated nurses settle in Ontario.
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Expansion of In-Demand Skills Stream
The OINP has expanded the Employer Job Offer In-Demand Skills stream from 22 to 56 occupations, allowing more skilled workers to qualify. Cathy Hecimovich, CEO of the Ontario Retirement Communities Association, praised this move for attracting healthcare workers to support Ontario’s aging population.
Tougher Penalties for Fraud
Ontario is increasing penalties for employers, representatives, and recruiters involved in immigration fraud. The minimum penalty has been raised from $2,000 to $10,000.
** Check your eligibility to Canada with V&I Canada CRS Points Calculator for free.
Doubling OINP Allotments
Ontario’s OINP allotment has doubled from 9,750 in 2022 to 21,500, reflecting the province’s commitment to attracting skilled workers. Sylvia Jones, Health Minister, stated, “Our bold changes will break down barriers for internationally trained nurses, making it faster and easier to provide care.”
Nadia Todorova of the Residential and Civil Construction Alliance of Ontario applauded the improvements, emphasizing the alignment of international labor recruitment with Ontario’s labor market needs.
These initiatives highlight Ontario’s efforts to build a stronger, more inclusive province through strategic immigration reforms.
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