Ontario Invites International Students and Skilled Trades Workers in Health Sectors for PR

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Province Targets Critical Sectors with New Invitations Under Employer Job Offer Streams

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September 10, 2024 — In a significant effort to address labor shortages and strengthen its economy, Ontario has issued invitations to apply for permanent residency to international students and skilled trades workers. The invitations were extended under the Employer Job Offer: International Students stream and the Employer Job Offer: In-Demand Skills stream, focusing on health occupations and skilled trades.

Boost for Health Occupations

Ontario is placing a spotlight on the healthcare sector by inviting international students who have job offers in various health occupations and have scored 67 points or above in their Expression of Interest (EOI) profiles.

Key Health Occupations Invited:

• Medical Professionals: Dentists (NOC 31110), Pharmacists (NOC 31120), Registered Nurses (NOC 31301), Physiotherapists (NOC 31202), and more.
• Specialists: Veterinarians (NOC 31103), Optometrists (NOC 31111), Psychologists (NOC 31200).
• Technicians and Assistants: Medical Laboratory Technologists (NOC 32120), Dental Hygienists (NOC 32111), Pharmacy Technicians (NOC 32124).

For a full list of eligible NOC codes, candidates should refer to the official OINP website.

Why This Matters

• Healthcare Demand: With an aging population, Ontario anticipates a surge in demand for healthcare services.
• Employment Opportunities: Invited candidates have the opportunity to fill essential roles in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities.

Opportunities in Skilled Trades

Simultaneously, Ontario extended invitations to candidates in skilled trades who have job offers and a score of 67 or above.

Key Skilled Trades Occupations Invited:

• Construction and Engineering: Construction Managers (NOC 70010), Mechanical Engineering Technicians (NOC 22301), Electricians (NOC 72200).
• Mechanical and Technical Roles: Industrial Mechanics (NOC 72400), Welders (NOC 72106), Heavy Equipment Operators (NOC 73400).
• Other Trades: Plumbers (NOC 72300), Carpenters (NOC 72310), HVAC Mechanics (NOC 72402).

Significance

• Infrastructure Development: Skilled trades workers are crucial for ongoing and future infrastructure projects.
• Economic Growth: Filling these positions supports the province's economic expansion and development goals.

In-Demand Skills Stream Invites Candidates with Lower Scores

In an inclusive move, Ontario also issued invitations under the Employer Job Offer: In-Demand Skills stream to candidates with scores of 34 and above. This stream targets occupations that are essential but often overlooked.

Impact

• Labor Market Balance: Helps fill positions in sectors experiencing chronic labor shortages.
• Broadening Horizons: Provides opportunities for candidates who may not qualify under other streams.

Special Invitations Under the Economic Mobility Pathways Project (EMPP)

Ontario issued 15 targeted invitations to candidates eligible under the Employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker stream through the federal Economic Mobility Pathways Project.

About EMPP

• Objective: Assists skilled refugees in immigrating to Canada.
• Benefit: Addresses both humanitarian goals and labor market needs.

Important Updates for Applicants

• Updated Employer Form Required: As of April 10, 2024, all applications must include the updated Application for Approval of Employment Position (Employer Form). Submissions with older forms will be returned as incomplete.
• Application Process:
  • Review Eligibility: Check the specific stream requirements on the OINP website.
  • Prepare Documents: Ensure all mandatory documents are ready, following the updated checklist.
  • Submit Application: Use the OINP e-Filing Portal. Note that your new application file number will differ from your EOI file number, which will be greyed out—this is normal.

Additional Facts and Figures

• Labor Shortages: According to the Conference Board of Canada, the country could face a shortage of over 350,000 skilled workers by 2025.
• Healthcare Needs: The Canadian Nurses Association predicts a shortfall of 60,000 nurses by 2026.
• Economic Contribution: Skilled trades and healthcare professionals significantly contribute to GDP and community well-being.

Why Candidates Should Act Now

• Time-Sensitive Opportunity: Invitations are limited and subject to provincial quotas.
• Enhanced Chances for PR: Receiving an invitation significantly increases the likelihood of obtaining permanent residency.

How This Benefits Ontario

• Economic Growth: Filling these roles supports key industries and economic sectors.
• Community Development: Addresses essential services, improving the quality of life for residents.
• Diversity and Inclusion: Welcoming international talent enriches cultural diversity and innovation.

Next Steps for Interested Candidates

1. Verify Eligibility: Visit the OINP website to ensure you meet all criteria.
2. Update Application Forms: Use the latest forms to avoid application delays.
3. Submit Promptly: Adhere to deadlines to maximize your chances.

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For more information, candidates are encouraged to visit the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) website or consult with a registered immigration consultant.

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