The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) has announced significant updates to its Express Entry and Foreign Worker streams, which took effect on January 27, 2025. These changes primarily focus on easing the immigration process for self-employed physicians, who play a vital role in the province’s healthcare system.
Ontario PNP Express Entry Streams: Self-Employment Now Counted as Valid Work Experience
In the past, the OINP’s Express Entry Human Capital Priorities and French-Speaking Skilled Worker streams required applicants to demonstrate work experience in specific National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes. However, the list of qualifying work experience often excluded self-employment, creating barriers for self-employed professionals, especially physicians.
The recent amendments now allow applicants to count their self-employed work experience toward the program’s requirements, as long as it aligns with one of the following NOC codes:
- NOC 31100: Specialists in clinical and laboratory medicine
- NOC 31101: Specialists in surgery
- NOC 31102: General practitioners and family physicians
Applicants must choose to be assessed against one of two federal program criteria:
- Federal Skilled Workers Program
- Canadian Experience Class
For those selecting the Canadian Experience Class, self-employed work experience in the listed NOC codes is now recognized as valid. This change aligns with federal updates and creates greater consistency across immigration programs.
No Job Offer Requirement for OINP Foreign Worker Stream (For Physicians)
Previously, applicants to the Employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker stream had to secure a job offer from an Ontario employer. To better address healthcare labor shortages, Ontario has revised this requirement for physician applicants.
Physicians can now qualify for this stream without a traditional job offer if they meet the following conditions:
- Registration and Good Standing: The applicant must be registered with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario under one of the following certificate categories that allow patient care:
- Independent practice
- Academic practice
- Postgraduate education
- Eligibility for Payment: The applicant must be eligible to receive payment for publicly funded health services in accordance with the Health Insurance Act, 1990.
These changes apply exclusively to applicants in NOC codes 31100, 31101, and 31102, and do not extend to other professions.
By removing the job offer requirement, Ontario aims to attract and retain more self-employed physicians, ultimately strengthening the healthcare system.
Good News for Self-Employed Physicians
The recognition of self-employment as valid work experience represents a significant shift in Ontario’s immigration policy, especially benefiting self-employed physicians. This change acknowledges the broad range of professional experiences that physicians may have, providing a more inclusive route to permanent residency.
By aligning Ontario’s policies with recent federal updates, the province ensures a streamlined and consistent immigration process, making it an attractive destination for international medical professionals.
Ontario’s ongoing adjustments to its immigration strategy demonstrate a commitment to meeting sector-specific needs, particularly in healthcare. Self-employed physicians considering a move to Ontario now have a clearer, more accessible pathway to contribute to the province’s thriving medical community.
Prospective applicants should visit the official OINP updates page for more details on these changes and how to apply.
These developments highlight Ontario’s ongoing efforts to attract top-tier medical talent and ensure the province continues to lead in healthcare excellence within Canada.
Book a consultation today to receive personalized advice and keep your application on track. Our experts are here to help you understand the latest requirements and provide guidance tailored to your specific situation. Book Your Consultation Now!
