IMPACT – HIGH

What is the change? Ontario has created two new streams under the Express Entry program for skilled workers seeking to live and work permanently in Ontario.

What does the change mean? The two streams, the Human Capital Priorities Stream and the French-Speaking Skilled Worker Stream, allow foreign nationals who qualify under the new Express Entry system to be nominated under Ontario’s Provincial Nominee Program.

  • Implementation time frame: Immediate.
  • Visas/permits affected: Permanent residency.
  • Who is affected: Foreign candidates who meet qualifications for the Federal Skilled Worker Program or Canadian Experience Class.
  • Impact on processing: Applicants who receive a notification of interest from Ontario will have 45 days to apply to the Provincial Nominee Program. Those approved for nomination will have 30 days to accept the nomination. Once they receive an invitation to apply, they will have 60 days to apply for permanent residency.
  • Business impact: The two new streams will benefit foreign nationals who meet the necessary qualifications and are selected through Express Entry.
  • Next steps: Contact your BAL representative for further details on eligibility and application procedures.

Background: To be considered for either of the two streams, candidates must meet minimum qualifications for either the Federal Skilled Worker Program or the Canadian Experience Class and intend to reside in Ontario. Candidates will be drawn from the Express Entry pool.

The Human Capital Priorities Stream requires a minimum of 400 points in the Express Entry ranking system and English language skills.

The French-Speaking Skilled Worker Stream requires a certain level of French and English, the equivalent of a Canadian bachelor’s degree or higher and sufficient settlement funds.

BAL Analysis: The opening of the two streams through Ontario’s provincial nomination program will provide opportunities for foreign nationals seeking permanent residency who do not have an LMIA-based job offer.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

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