OINP Trades Skilled Draw August 22nd, 2024. 1287 invitations sent

On August 22, 2024, Ontario conducted a significant Express Entry draw, inviting 1,287 candidates to apply for permanent residence (PR) under the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) for the Skilled Trades Stream. 

This draw is part of the province’s ongoing efforts to attract skilled immigrants to fill labor shortages and contribute to the region’s economic growth.

Draw Updates

This draw specifically targeted candidates under the Skilled Trades stream of the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP). The candidates who received invitations had Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores ranging from 400 to 435 and work experience in one of the 46 skilled trade occupations listed as the primary NOC.

This wide range of scores highlights Ontario’s inclusive approach to selecting candidates who can meet the province’s labor market needs, particularly in the skilled trades sector.

An important detail of this draw is that it considered Express Entry profiles created between August 22, 2023, and August 22, 2024. Profiles that met the criteria for the Skilled Trades stream were eligible for selection, ensuring that a wide pool of candidates had the opportunity to receive an invitation.

This draw also marked a notable expansion in the CRS score range compared to previous OINP Skilled Trades Stream draws. The lower end of the CRS score range dropped by 8 points, from 408 to 400, making it more accessible for candidates with lower scores to qualify. However, the upper limit of the range remained the same, reflecting Ontario’s ongoing need for highly skilled tradespeople.

Key Features of the Skilled Trades Stream

Candidates having work experience in Ontario in skilled trades jobs that fall under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) TEER Category 2 or 3 are eligible for the OINP’s skilled trades stream. For people with slightly lower CRS scores who possess the expertise and experience that employers highly value in Ontario, this route is especially helpful.

Eligible candidates must have at least one year of full-time work experience, or the equivalent of part-time work, in Ontario within the last two years. This experience must be in one of the eligible trades, and candidates must have a valid Express Entry profile.

What This Means for Invited Candidates

For the 1,287 candidates who received invitations in this draw, the next steps are critical. These candidates now have 45 days to submit a complete application to the OINP for a provincial nomination. If their application is successful, they will receive an additional 600 points toward their CRS score, almost guaranteeing an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence in a subsequent federal Express Entry draw.

This boost in CRS points is particularly advantageous for candidates in the Skilled Trades stream, significantly increasing their chances of receiving an ITA, even if their original CRS score was on the lower end of the scale. This pathway provides a clear and achievable route to permanent residence for skilled tradespeople, who are essential to Ontario’s economy.

List of occupations eligible for OINP Express Entry Draw today:

1. NOC 72010 – Contractors and supervisors, machining, metal forming, shaping and erecting trades and related occupations
2. NOC 72011 – Contractors and supervisors, electrical trades, and telecommunications occupations
3. NOC 72012 – Contractors and supervisors, pipefitting trades
4. NOC 72013 – Contractors and supervisors, carpentry trades
5. NOC 72020 – Contractors and supervisors, mechanic trades
6. NOC 72021 – Contractors and supervisors, heavy equipment operator crews
7. NOC 72022 – Supervisors, printing, and related occupations
8. NOC 72100 – Machinists and machining and tooling inspectors
9. NOC 72101 – Tool and die makers
10. NOC 72102 – Sheet metal workers
11. NOC 72103 – Boilermakers
12. NOC 72104 – Structural metal and plate work fabricators and fitters
13. NOC 72105 – Ironworkers
14. NOC 72200 – Electricians (except industrial and power system)
15. NOC 72201 – Industrial electricians
16. NOC 72203 – Electrical power line and cable workers
17. NOC 72205 – Telecommunications equipment installation and cable television service technicians
18. NOC 72300 – Plumbers
19. NOC 72301 – Steamfitters, pipefitters, and sprinkler system installers
20. NOC 72302 – Gas fitters
21. NOC 72310 – Carpenters
22. NOC 72311 – Cabinetmakers
23. NOC 72320 – Bricklayers
24. NOC 72321 – Insulators
25. NOC 72400 – Construction millwrights and industrial mechanics
26. NOC 73200 – Residential and commercial installers and servicers
27. NOC 73201 – General building maintenance workers and building superintendents
28. NOC 73202 – Pest controllers and fumigators
29. NOC 73209 – Other repairers and servicers
30. NOC 73400 – Heavy equipment operators
31. NOC 73402 – Drillers and blasters – surface mining, quarrying and construction
32. NOC 82031 – Contractors and supervisors, landscaping, grounds maintenance, and horticulture services
33. NOC 72402 – Heating, refrigeration, and air conditioning mechanics
34. NOC 72403 – Railway carmen/women
35. NOC 72404 – Aircraft mechanics and aircraft inspectors
36. NOC 72406 – Elevator constructors and mechanics
37. NOC 72410 – Automotive service technicians, truck and bus mechanics, and mechanical repairers
38. NOC 72422 – Electrical Mechanics
39. NOC 72423 – Motorcycle, all-terrain vehicle, and other related mechanics
40. NOC 72500 – Crane operators
41. NOC 73100 – Concrete finishers
42. NOC 73101 – Tilesetters
43. NOC 73102 – Plasterers, drywall installers finishers, and lathers
44. NOC 73110 – Roofers and shinglers
45. NOC 73111 – Glaziers
46. NOC 73113 – Floor covering installers

Previous Draw Updates for Trades Skill Stream

The August 22, 2024, Ontario Express Entry draw is another significant step in the province’s efforts to attract skilled immigrants, particularly in the skilled trades. By inviting 1,287 candidates with CRS scores ranging from 400 to 436, Ontario is not only addressing current labor shortages but also positioning itself for continued economic prosperity.

For those who received invitations, this is an exciting opportunity to secure a provincial nomination and move closer to achieving permanent residence in Canada. Ontario’s Skilled Trades stream offers a valuable pathway for individuals with the right skills and experience, and this latest draw underscores the province’s commitment to building a strong, skilled workforce.

Candidates interested in this stream should ensure their Express Entry profiles are up to date and stay informed about future draws. With the right preparation, skilled tradespeople can look forward to a bright future in Ontario, contributing to the province’s thriving economy and enjoying the many benefits of living in one of Canada’s most dynamic regions.