ONTARIO CHANGES IMMIGRATION APPLICATION PROCESS – EFFECTIVE JULY 1, 2025

If you’re planning to immigrate to Ontario (Canada) through a job offer or skilled worker stream, take note:
The Ontario government has changed how applications are submitted under the OINP.
You cannot apply the same way as before — and if you’re unaware of the new process, you won’t be able to apply at all.

📌 WHAT’S NEW?

✅ 1. Employers must create an account first
Ontario has launched a new Employer Portal, a dedicated platform for employers.
Employers must register on this portal, providing company and job offer details.
Only after they complete this step can you register an EOI (Expression of Interest) — the first stage of the application.

Bottom line: Candidates can no longer submit an EOI independently. The employer must be involved from the beginning.

✅ 2. OINP may require in-person interviews
OINP now reserves the right to interview both the applicant and the employer to verify the legitimacy of the application.

Fraudulent or “fake cooperation” cases will be immediately disqualified.

✅ 3. Applications may be refused even if complete
Even if your application is complete and meets all technical requirements, it may still be refused if it doesn’t align with Ontario’s current labour priorities.

Good news: Full refund if refused at this stage.
Bad news: You lose time and a potential opportunity if your planning is off.

✅ 4. Early Childhood Educators (NOC 42202) receive major priority
If you work in Early Childhood Education, you don’t need formal educational credentials if:
→ You are a registered member in good standing with the College of Early Childhood Educators (CECE) in Ontario.

This opens a pathway for experienced candidates currently working in the field but lacking formal qualifications.

🧭 WHAT SHOULD YOU DO NOW?

If you’re planning to immigrate to Ontario under OINP (Job Offer or Express Entry), you should:

▶ Contact your employer immediately
→ Ask if they’ve registered on the Employer Portal
→ If not, guide them through it (SICON can assist)

▶ Do not submit your application on your own
→ Wait until the employer completes their part
→ Only then will you be allowed to submit your EOI

▶ Prepare for a potential interview
→ Be ready to discuss your role, experience, and job offer in detail

▶ If you’re an Early Childhood Educator
→ Ask about registering with the College of ECE
→ This is your fastest route to being prioritized

💬 NEED STEP-BY-STEP GUIDANCE?
SICON Immigration can help:
✅ Guide your employer through account creation and job posting
✅ Review and optimize your EOI under the new rules
✅ Strategize your immigration path based on your occupation
✅ Assist with College of ECE registration for Early Childhood Educators