Maple News reports that the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) has expanded the list of eligible occupations under its Employer Job Offer: In-Demand Skills stream, making it easier for newcomers with experience in high-demand roles to secure provincial nominations for permanent residency.
On July 4, Ontario’s Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development announced the inclusion of 35 new occupations aligned with the 2021 National Occupation Classification (NOC) codes. These additions aim to address ongoing labour shortages in essential sectors and help employers fill critical roles with qualified immigrant talent.
Among the newly eligible occupations are shippers and receivers (NOC 14400), production logistics workers (NOC 14402), material handlers (NOC 75101), and maintenance personnel for utilities and public infrastructure, including utility maintenance workers (NOC 74204) and public works equipment operators (NOC 74205). Also added are positions such as dry cleaning and laundry workers (NOC 65320), automotive and heavy truck parts installers (NOC 74203), and railway maintenance staff (NOC 74200).
These roles fall under sectors like manufacturing, warehousing, transportation, logistics, and public services — many of which have experienced chronic labour shortages in Ontario. By expanding eligibility under the Employer Job Offer stream, the province is signaling its commitment to attracting and retaining international workers for positions that are vital to the province’s economic growth.
Candidates under this stream must have a full-time, permanent job offer in one of the in-demand occupations from an Ontario employer, among other eligibility requirements. Selected applicants receive a provincial nomination, significantly boosting their chances of obtaining permanent residency in Canada.
The strategic update aligns with Ontario’s broader immigration plan, which aims to welcome over 18,000 immigrants through the provincial nominee program in 2024. With pressing industry needs in logistics and infrastructure support, these changes are expected to enhance workforce resilience and help employers better navigate ongoing labour gaps.
Maple News will continue to monitor how these updates influence job mobility and immigration trends in Canadian provinces.