Ontario Express Entry Skilled Trades Stream
Overview
Ontario’s Express Entry Skilled Trades Stream is a prominent immigration pathway under the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP). This stream allows foreign nationals with relevant work experience in Ontario’s eligible skilled trades to apply for permanent residency.
Before you apply, to qualify, candidates must maintain a valid profile in Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada’s (IRCC) Express Entry system.
Your Federal Immigration Program
To qualify for Ontario’s Express Entry streams, you must meet the requirements of one of these federal immigration programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program
- Canadian Experience Class
When you submit your application to the OINP, you must specify which federal program you want to be assessed under: the Federal Skilled Worker Program or the Canadian Experience Class.
Taking Action After Your Notification of Interest (NOI)
Once you receive a Notification of Interest from Ontario, you can proceed to apply online for nomination by the Ontario government for permanent residence.
Act Quickly: If you receive a Notification of Interest, you have 45 calendar days from the date of notification to submit your application. Don’t miss this crucial window to take the next step toward your future in Ontario!
Key Requirements
Work Experience
- You must have at least one year of cumulative paid full-time work experience (or the equivalent in paid part-time work) in eligible skilled trades within the last two years.
- Your experience must be in Ontario, legally obtained, and in occupations matching your Express Entry profile.
- Full-time work is defined as at least 30 hours per week, totaling 1,560 hours annually. Part-time work must also total 1,560 hours over the necessary period.
Valid Certification or License (If Applicable)
- If your trade requires a mandatory certificate or license in Ontario, you must hold this at the time of application and during the period of claimed work experience.
Current Residence and Legal Status in Ontario
- You must reside in Ontario with a valid work permit when applying. If your permit is expired, you must have applied for renewal before the expiry date to maintain status.
Language Proficiency
- You must demonstrate proficiency in English or French at a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 5 or higher, proven by an approved language test taken within the last two years.
Settlement Funds
- You need sufficient funds to support yourself and your family, shown through bank statements, earnings from employment, or a job offer in Ontario.
Intention to Reside in Ontario
- You must show a genuine intention to live in Ontario through ties such as employment, job applications, study, volunteering, property ownership, visits, or personal and professional relationships.
If your application is successful, you will receive a nomination approval letter and certificate by email. Your nomination details will be entered into the IRCC Express Entry System, and you will be notified through your online account.
You will have 30 days to accept or decline the nomination. Accepting it grants you an additional 600 points, ensuring an invitation to apply for permanent residence in the next round.
Once invited, you will have 60 days to submit your application for permanent residence to IRCC.