The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) recently introduced significant changes to two of its Express Entry streams: the Skilled Trades Stream and the Human Capital Priorities (HCP) Stream on 25th July 2024
These changes are designed to better align with the federal Express Entry targeted draws, aiming to streamline the process for potential immigrants.
Similar to targeted Express Entry drawings, the OINP modified the prerequisites for eligibility for targeted draws under the Skilled Trades and Human Capital Priorities (HCP) streams.
Key Changes to the OINP Express Entry Streams
1. Skilled Trades Stream:
- New Work Experience Requirement: Previously, candidates needed at least one year of experience in their primary occupation. Now, candidates can qualify with six months of experience in the primary occupation, provided they still meet the overall requirement of one year of cumulative experience across different occupations.
- Targeted Occupations: The stream focuses on specific trades in Ontario, which have been expanded to include more occupations compared to the federal level, offering a broader scope for skilled workers.
2. Human Capital Priorities (HCP) Stream:
- Experience Flexibility: Similar to the Skilled Trades Stream, the HCP Stream now requires candidates to have at least six months of work experience in their primary occupation to be eligible for targeted draws. This change aims to make it easier for candidates to meet the eligibility criteria.
How OINP Express Entry Stream Draws Work
Candidates interested in these streams do not need to create a separate profile with the OINP but must indicate Ontario as their intended province in the federal Express Entry system.
The OINP reviews profiles in the pool, selects those meeting their criteria, and invites them to apply for provincial nomination.
Receiving a nomination boosts a candidate’s Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score by 600 points, significantly enhancing their chances of being invited to apply for permanent residency.
Impact and Alignment of the Change with Federal Express Entry
The OINP is working to improve alignment with the federal Express Entry streams system, and these updates are a part of that effort.
There are significant disparities, especially in the scope of the targeted professions. Although this alignment is a step in the right direction, it also draws attention to areas where particular skilled workers might not have complete coverage under the federal or provincial systems.
Summary of 2024 OINP Express Entry Streams Draws
So far in 2024, the OINP has issued 17,437 invitations through its Express Entry streams. This includes:
- Human Capital Priorities Stream: 9,829 invitations, CRS scores ranging from 352-480.
- French-Speaking Skilled Worker Stream: 1,196 invitations, CRS scores ranging from 305-469.
- Skilled Trades Stream: 6,412 invitations, CRS scores ranging from 350-435.
The most recent draw on July 18, 2024, issued 1,240 invitations under the HCP Stream for candidates with experience in healthcare occupations.
What to expect
As a result of the most recent modifications to Ontario’s OINP Express Entry streams, candidates should expect more adjustments meant to improve compliance with the federal immigration system.
As the OINP continues to modify its standards and focus on specific professions, applicants ought to be aware of any revisions that can affect their eligibility and the nomination procedure.
It’s also likely that the OINP will continue to focus on skilled crafts and in-demand occupations when releasing regular draws. Candidates should be ready for possible changes to the targeted draw criteria and CRS score requirements.
In conclusion In order to satisfy its labour market demands, Ontario is committed to attracting a diverse spectrum of skilled individuals, as seen by the recent revisions to the OINP’s Express Entry streams. Prospective immigrants have greater opportunities thanks to the OINP, which is broadening the spectrum of acceptable occupations and aligning more closely with federal regulations. In order to meet the demands of the labour market in the province and promote economic growth, this alignment is essential.