Maple News reports that Ontario has introduced new labour policies aimed at making the job market more accessible—especially for newcomers. In a landmark move, the province has officially banned employers from requiring ‘Canadian work experience’ in their job advertisements, a change that removes a long-standing barrier for many internationally-trained professionals. Additionally, all job postings are now mandated to include salary ranges, adding much-needed transparency for job seekers.
These changes represent a significant step forward in promoting fairness and inclusivity in Ontario’s labour market. For newcomers in particular, eliminating the Canadian experience requirement may open doors to roles that they are fully qualified for but historically excluded from. Meanwhile, salary disclosure empowers applicants to make informed decisions and negotiate more effectively.
As job seekers prepare to enter Ontario’s labour market, Maple News highlights that aligning one’s skills with in-demand occupations can be a strategic pathway to both employment and permanent residency. Ontario uses data on labour shortages to shape its Provincial Nominee Program (OINP), a key immigration stream. Candidates with expertise in these high-demand fields are more likely to receive nominations for permanent residency from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Occupations regularly flagged as in demand include roles in healthcare, skilled trades, information technology, and finance. As Ontario’s economy continues to diversify, staying informed about such labour trends can greatly enhance an immigrant’s chances of success.
Despite the removal of the Canadian experience clause, many professional roles in Ontario—especially regulated ones—still require formal accreditation or licensing. For example, engineers, teachers, nurses, and accountants must meet Canadian regulatory standards before practicing their professions. Accreditation assures potential employers that a candidate, regardless of where they were trained, meets local competency benchmarks.
Fortunately, there are several organizations in Canada designated to assist with international credential recognition. Newcomers are encouraged to verify which bodies are authorized to accredit qualifications in their particular field. Bridging programs are also available and can help immigrants gain local experience, upgrade skills, or meet certification requirements.
These initiatives together indicate Ontario’s strong commitment to removing systemic employment barriers and welcoming global talent. For newcomers ready to contribute their skills to Canada’s largest province, these reforms are a promising sign of a more inclusive job market.
According to Maple News, now more than ever, Ontario may be one of Canada’s most welcoming provinces for international talent seeking both opportunity and long-term settlement.