Ontario Halts Skilled Trades Stream: Key Reasons Explained

Ontario Halts Express Entry Skilled Trades Stream Amid Misrepresentation Concerns

In a significant move, Ontario has suspended its Express Entry Skilled Trades Stream due to extensive misrepresentation in applications. This decision impacts numerous individuals seeking permanent residency (PR) through this pathway.

Impact on Applicants

With the suspension, all pending applications will be returned along with refunded fees. The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) has not indicated if or when this stream might reopen, leaving applicants in a state of uncertainty.

Next Steps for Applicants

Applicants are encouraged to seek guidance from immigration professionals to explore alternative pathways for obtaining PR in Canada.

Alternative Pathways

1. Express Entry Trade Category: This remains a strong alternative for those affected. Applicants with an existing Express Entry profile can transition to this category, which typically requires lower Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores. For instance, recent draws had a cut-off of 505, compared to the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) cut-off of 533.

2. Eligibility for Trade Category: Candidates should have at least six months of work experience in trades like electrician, carpenter, or plumber within the last three years, and meet the basic requirements of Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), CEC, or Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP).

3. Other OINP Streams: Applicants may explore other provincial streams if they meet specific criteria:
   • Enhanced Streams: Connected to Express Entry, these include Human Capital Priorities and French-Speaking Skilled Worker.
   • Base Streams: Not linked to Express Entry, options include Employer Job Offer streams, Master’s Graduate, and PhD Graduate. Note that base streams require applications through Ontario’s Expression of Interest (EOI) system.

Reason for Suspension

The primary reason for halting the stream was widespread fraud and misrepresentation, which compromised the integrity of the application process. Additionally, Ontario faces a reduced number of nomination spots for 2025, necessitating more strategic use of available quotas.

Conclusion

In summary, Ontario’s suspension of the Express Entry Skilled Trades Stream highlights the challenges of maintaining integrity within immigration pathways. While this may pose challenges for current applicants, alternative routes remain accessible for those seeking to make Canada their new home.