Ontario PNP Express Entry Stream Updates: Key Changes Effective January 27
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The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) has introduced significant updates to its Express Entry and foreign worker streams, set to take effect on January 27, 2025. These changes aim to streamline the immigration process for self-employed physicians, acknowledging their vital contributions to Ontario’s healthcare system. Let’s look at the key updates and what they mean for applicants.
Ontario PNP Express Entry Streams Now Recognizing Self-Employment in Work Experience Criteria
Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) has traditionally required candidates applying through the Express Entry Human Capital Priorities and French-Speaking Skilled Worker streams to have work experience in specific National Occupation Classification (NOC) codes. However, self-employed professionals - particularly physicians - often faced challenges as self-employment was not considered valid work experience.
With the latest updates, applicants in these streams can now count self-employment experience toward meeting work experience requirements, provided it falls under one of the following NOC codes:
- NOC 31100 - Specialists in clinical and laboratory medicine
- NOC 31101 - Specialists in surgery
- NOC 31102 - General practitioners and family physicians
To qualify, applicants must meet the criteria of either:
- Federal Skilled Workers Program
- Canadian Experience Class (which now officially recognizes self-employment in the designated NOC codes)
These changes bring OINP policies in line with federal immigration updates, ensuring a more consistent and inclusive approach for skilled professionals.
Also Read: What’s New in Canada Express Entry System in 2025?
No Job Offer Requirement for OINP Foreign Worker Stream
Previously, the Employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker stream required applicants to secure a job offer from an Ontario employer. However, to better address the province’s healthcare labour needs, OINP has modified this requirement specifically for physicians. Under the new rules, self-employed physicians can now qualify for this stream without a traditional job offer, provided they meet certain criteria.
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be registered and in good standing with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario under one of the following certificate categories:
- Independent practice
- Academic practice
- Postgraduate education
- Be eligible for payment under the Health Insurance Act, 1990, for publicly funded health services.
These changes, effective January 27, 2025, apply exclusively to physicians under NOC codes 31100, 31101, and 31102 and do not extend to other professions. By eliminating the job offer requirement, Ontario aims to attract and retain more self-employed doctors, ultimately strengthening its healthcare system.
Check Out: IRCC Invites 4000 Candidates in Latest Express Entry Draw
Planning to Apply for Ontario PNP Express Entry Stream? GetGIS Can Help!
Ontario’s recent changes to the Express Entry streams, including the recognition of self-employment as valid work experience, open new opportunities for self-employed physicians. This update enhances the province’s appeal to international medical professionals and aims to address healthcare workforce shortages. with these amendments, Ontario continues to demonstrate its commitment to fostering healthcare excellence and responding to sector-specific needs.
Connect with GetGIS and move to Canada with ease. Get expert guidance on navigating the Express Entry system and securing your Ontario PNP nomination for a smoother immigration process.
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