In a bid to make the province more accessible for international students, the Ontario government is in the process of refining the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program. This program is a pathway for foreign nationals to obtain permanent residency in Ontario, and recent updates aim to broaden the eligibility criteria, specifically for those who have successfully completed one-year college graduate certificate programs in the province.

1. Ontario's Gateway to Permanent
Residency: A Year of Study, a Lifetime of
Opportunity
Canada is known for its welcoming stance towards international students, offering a unique opportunity
to not only pursue quality education but also to potentially establish a permanent life in the country.
The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP), also known as Ontario PNP, is undergoing significant
changes to provide enhanced opportunities for international students seeking permanent residency
after completing a one-year study program in the province.
Ontario's Commitment to International Students
In a bid to make the province more accessible for international students, the Ontario government is in
the process of refining the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program. This program is a pathway for foreign
nationals to obtain permanent residency in Ontario, and recent updates aim to broaden the eligibility
criteria, specifically for those who have successfully completed one-year college graduate certificate
programs in the province.
Opportunities for International Students
More than 900 college programs in Ontario offer a one-year Ontario College Graduate Certificate,
presenting a promising prospect for international students. This initiative addresses the challenges faced
by many in obtaining permanent residency and encourages them to stay in Ontario instead of
considering relocation to other provinces.
Changes in Eligibility Criteria
The proposed changes in the eligibility criteria are expected to remove barriers for international
students. Previously, the requirement of Canadian work experience in job advertisements or application
forms posed challenges for many. The upcoming legislation aims to make the application process more
accessible, allowing qualified candidates to progress through interviews without facing unnecessary
hurdles.
Legislation Progress and Expected Implementation
The provincial government is actively considering these proposed changes, with approval anticipated as
early as next week. If approved, the implementation is expected to begin early next year, offering
international students a more streamlined path to permanent residency in Ontario.
Removing Work Experience Barriers
Starting December 1, 2023, over 30 occupational and professional licensing bodies will no longer be
allowed to impose Canadian work experience requirements for licensing. This is a significant step
towards creating a more inclusive pathway for individuals seeking professional licensure in Ontario. The

2. change aims to eliminate obstacles for newcomers, making it easier for them to integrate into the
workforce.
Inclusive Employment Practices
The legislative changes also extend to employers, prohibiting them from including Canadian work
experience requirements in job advertisements and application forms. This move is part of a broader
effort to create a more inclusive and accessible job market for newcomers. The government is
committed to ensuring that assessments for regulated professions are conducted promptly,
transparently, and impartially, fostering a fair evaluation process for individuals with international
qualifications.
Ontario's Economic Growth and Opportunities for Skilled Newcomers
Ontario consistently welcomes a high number of immigrants annually compared to other provinces in
Canada. Recognizing the potential of skilled newcomers to contribute to the province's economic
growth, Ontario plans to nominate 16,500 immigrants for permanent residence through the OINP in the
current year. This initiative focuses on key sectors such as healthcare and skilled trades, aligning with
the province's commitment to harnessing the potential of skilled immigrants.
The Need for Change
David Piccini, the Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training, and Skills Development, emphasizes the
need for change. He states, "For far too long, too many people arriving in Canada have been directed
towards jobs that don’t match their qualifications. We need to ensure these individuals can secure well-
paying and fulfilling careers that address the labor shortage. When newcomers to Ontario are given a
meaningful opportunity to contribute, it benefits everyone."
OINP’s Shift in Access Method
Starting November 12, 2023, the OINP will implement changes to how representatives and applicants
access the e-filing platform. All existing applications and expressions of interest with the OINP need to
be transferred from an ONe Key account to a My Ontario account. The OINP will provide instructions on
how to migrate existing e-filing accounts, ensuring a smooth transition to the new platform.
Conclusion
The evolving landscape of immigration policies in Ontario reflects a commitment to creating a more
inclusive and accessible environment for international students seeking permanent residency. The
proposed changes to the OINP not only open doors for these students but also contribute to the
province's economic growth and address labor shortages. As the government focuses on removing
barriers and promoting a fair evaluation process, Ontario emerges as an attractive destination for those
looking to build a future in Canada after completing a one-year study program.