Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) invitations to apply July 11, 2024

On July 11, 2024, the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) conducted a new Express Entry draw specifically aimed at candidates under the Skilled Trades Stream. This draw extended invitations to 1,277 candidates whose Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores ranged from 408 to 435.

The draw focused on candidates with experience in 46 eligible skilled trade occupations, such as machining, metal forming, electrical trades, pipefitting, carpentry, mechanic trades, and heavy equipment operation. Specific occupations included machinists, tool and die makers, sheet metal workers, boilermakers, structural metal and platework fabricators, ironworkers, electricians, industrial electricians, power line workers, telecommunications technicians, plumbers, steamfitters, pipefitters, sprinkler system installers, gas fitters, carpenters, cabinetmakers, and bricklayers.

Invited candidates now have 45 days to accept their invitation and submit a complete application to secure provincial nomination. Once nominated, they will receive an additional 600 points in their Express Entry profile, significantly boosting their chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence in upcoming federal Express Entry draws.

This draw marks the third OINP Skilled Trades Stream draw in 2024, following previous draws on March 1 (2,583 invitations, CRS scores between 350 and 424) and January 11 (2,552 invitations, CRS scores between 350 and 424). As of now in 2024, the OINP has issued a total of 6,412 invitations under this stream.

The draw targeted candidates with experience in 46 eligible skilled trade occupations, including:

The Ontario Express Entry Skilled Trades Stream is a significant pathway for foreign nationals with relevant work experience in Ontario to obtain permanent residency. This stream is part of the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) and targets skilled workers with experience in eligible trades.

The Ontario Express Entry Skilled Trades Stream allows individuals with specific Ontario work experience in eligible trades to apply for permanent residency. To be eligible, applicants must have a valid profile in the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada’s (IRCC) Express Entry system and receive a Notification of Interest from Ontario.

Application Steps

Step 1: Check Eligibility

To qualify, applicants must:

• Have a minimum of one year of cumulative paid full-time or equivalent part-time work experience in Ontario within the last two years.
• The work must be in specific National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes, excluding certain occupations.
• Maintain legal status in Canada throughout the employment period.

Step 2: Secure Necessary Certification

For those in compulsory trades, a valid certificate or license for the trade in Ontario is mandatory. This certification must be valid at the time of application and cover the work experience period.

Step 3: Reside in Ontario

Applicants must live in Ontario and hold a valid work permit at the time of application. If the work permit expires, applicants can still apply if they have submitted a renewal or extension application to IRCC before the expiry date.

Step 4: Demonstrate Language Proficiency

Applicants must prove their proficiency in English or French with a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level of 5 or higher. Accepted tests include IELTS (General Training), CELPIP (General), PTE Core, TEF, and TCF Canada.

Step 5: Show Settlement Funds

Applicants must have enough funds to support themselves and their dependent family members upon settling in Canada. This can be demonstrated through bank statements, ongoing employment earnings, or a job offer in Ontario.

Step 6: Express Intent to Reside in Ontario

Applicants must demonstrate their intention to live in Ontario by showing ties such as employment, property ownership, or personal relationships in the province.

Final Steps

Once nominated by Ontario, applicants must apply to the federal government through IRCC, which makes the final decision on permanent residency.

Below is a tabulation of all Ontario draws in 2024.