ONTARIO TO CLOSE EMPLOYER JOB OFFER STREAMS AND INTRODUCE NEW PROGRAM STRUCTURE

 

 

The current eight streams will be consolidated into four main ones, rolled out in two phases. The goal is to reduce complexity, respond faster to labour needs, and improve accessibility for applicants.

 

🔹 PHASE 1: MERGING THREE JOB OFFER STREAMs INTO ONE

Employer Job Offer Stream with two branches: TEER 0 to 3 and TEER 4 to 5

 

■ TEER 0 to 3

Focused on skilled workers, prioritising applicants with Ontario-based experience. Key points:

• Wage requirement at median; Ontario graduates may use the low-wage level.
• Flexible experience options: six months of Ontario experience with the same employer; or two years of experience in the last five years; or a valid licence.
• No education requirement if the applicant has six months of in-province experience with the employer.

 

■ TEER 4 to 5

Supports recruitment for occupations facing shortages in Ontario.

• Requires nine months of experience with the employer in the same NOC.
• Includes a language requirement.
• A potential construction-industry pathway is being considered, where unions may verify experience in place of a job offer.

 

The government may also introduce targeted draws based on region, occupation, or sudden labour market needs.

 

🔹 PHASE 2: THREE NEW STREAMS, REMOVING OUTDATED ONES

 

■ Priority Healthcare Stream

For healthcare professionals with valid licensing.

• No job offer required.
• May open to recent graduates awaiting full licensing.
• Objective: address provincewide healthcare shortages.

 

■ Entrepreneur Stream (new direction)

For entrepreneurs who already operate a business in Ontario or plan to acquire one. Focus on real economic impact and job creation.

 

■ Exceptional Talent Stream

For outstanding individuals in science, technology, creative fields, and academia.

• Not constrained by rigid administrative criteria.
• Assessment will focus on achievements, such as awards, research, inventions, or significant contributions to Ontario.

 

Strengths: a clearer system, more flexibility for candidates with Ontario experience, strong focus on healthcare and innovation, and a viable immigration path for entrepreneurs.

Risks: employer-tied experience requirements may be challenging for newcomers; targeted draws can benefit certain groups while creating uncertainty for others.

Impact: applicants must adopt a more strategic approach, particularly TEER 4 to 5 candidates and those aiming for special streams.

 

Ontario is accepting public feedback until January 1, 2026.

These proposals are not yet final, but they will influence immigration strategy for many individuals moving forward.

 

👉 If you are working in Ontario

👉 If you are about to graduate

👉 If you need a job offer

👉 If you work in healthcare

👉 If you plan to start or buy a business in Ontario

 

📩 Contact SICON for tailored strategic advice before the new rules take effect.