Breaking: OINP Closes Skilled Trades Stream Amid Misrepresentation Issues
The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) has made the unprecedented decision to suspend its Express Entry Skilled Trades Stream, effective immediately. This closure affects all current and prospective applicants seeking provincial nomination through this popular immigration pathway.
What’s Happening to Current Applications?
If you’ve already applied to the Skilled Trades Stream, here’s what you need to know:
- All pending applications will be returned to applicants
- Full refunds will be issued for application fees
- No applications will be processed under this stream going forward
- No timeline has been announced for potential reopening
The province has not indicated whether this suspension is temporary or permanent.
Why Did Ontario Close This Immigration Stream?
The OINP’s decision stems from three critical factors:
1. Widespread Fraud and Misrepresentation
An internal review uncovered systematic fraud within the Skilled Trades Stream. Provincial authorities discovered that many applicants were misrepresenting their qualifications and work experience to meet eligibility criteria.
2. Program Integrity Concerns
Due to the extent of fraudulent applications, immigration officials determined they could no longer reliably verify whether applicants genuinely met the stream’s requirements. This undermined the entire assessment process.
3. Reduced Nomination Allocation
Ontario received a significant reduction in its 2025 immigrant nomination allocation. With fewer spots available, the province is prioritizing streams that can be properly verified and that effectively address Ontario’s labour market needs.
Alternative Immigration Pathways for Skilled Trades Workers
Don’t lose hope—several alternative routes remain available for skilled trades professionals seeking Canadian permanent residence.
Option 1: Express Entry Trade Occupation Category
This federal pathway may actually be easier than the suspended OINP stream. Recent category-based selection draws for trades have featured lower Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores:
- Trade category draw: 505 CRS (recent example)
- Canadian Experience Class draw: 533 CRS (recent example)
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Trade occupation category, you must:
- Have a valid Express Entry profile under the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Canadian Experience Class, or Federal Skilled Trades Program
- Possess at least six months of work experience in an eligible trade occupation
- Have gained this experience within the last three years
25 Eligible Trade Occupations
The following occupations qualify for Trade category draws:
Management Positions (TEER 0):
- Construction managers
- Home building and renovation managers
Skilled Trade Positions (TEER 2):
- Bricklayers
- Cabinetmakers
- Carpenters
- Construction estimators
- Construction millwrights and industrial mechanics
- Contractors and supervisors (oil and gas)
- Electrical mechanics
- Electricians (except industrial and power system)
- Gas fitters
- Heating, refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics
- Heavy-duty equipment mechanics
- Industrial electricians
- Machinists and machining/tooling inspectors
- Other technical trades and related occupations
- Plumbers
- Sheet metal workers
- Water well drillers
- Welders and related machine operators
Semi-Skilled Positions (TEER 3):
- Concrete finishers
- Cooks
- Floor covering installers
- Painters and decorators
- Roofers and shinglers
Option 2: Other OINP Streams
The OINP has confirmed that affected applicants can apply to other provincial streams, provided they meet eligibility requirements.
Express Entry-Aligned OINP Streams
These “enhanced” streams also draw from the federal Express Entry pool:
- Human Capital Priorities Stream – For skilled workers with strong human capital factors
- French-Speaking Skilled Worker Stream – For francophone candidates
Base OINP Streams
These streams require a separate Expression of Interest (EOI) submission through the OINP system:
- Employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker Stream
- Employer Job Offer: International Student Stream
- Employer Job Offer: In-Demand Skills Stream
- Master’s Graduate Stream
- PhD Graduate Stream
What Should Affected Applicants Do Now?
If your application is being returned, consider these steps:
- Wait for your refund – The OINP will process all refunds automatically
- Maintain your Express Entry profile – Keep it active and updated for Trade category draws
- Research alternative pathways – Evaluate which OINP or federal streams match your qualifications
- Improve your CRS score – Consider language testing, additional education, or gaining more Canadian work experience
- Consult an immigration professional – Get personalized advice based on your specific situation
The Bigger Picture: Immigration Integrity in Canada
This suspension highlights Canada’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of its immigration system. While frustrating for genuine applicants, these measures ensure that:
- Provincial nominations go to qualified candidates
- Labour market needs are genuinely addressed
- Fraudulent actors don’t disadvantage honest applicants
- Immigration programs remain sustainable long-term
Looking Ahead
With reduced nomination allocations across Provincial Nominee Programs in 2025, provinces are becoming more selective. This trend emphasizes the importance of:
- Complete honesty in all application materials
- Proper documentation of work experience and qualifications
- Understanding eligibility requirements before applying
- Exploring multiple pathways to permanent residence
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the Skilled Trades Stream reopen? The OINP has not announced any timeline or plans for reopening this stream.
Can I apply to a different OINP stream immediately? Yes, if you meet the eligibility criteria for another stream, you can submit a new application.
What happens to my processing time and priority date? Since applications are being returned, your previous submission will not carry over any priority or processing advantages.
Is this suspension related to federal immigration changes? While the suspension is an OINP decision, it’s influenced by reduced provincial nomination allocations from the federal government.
Conclusion
While the suspension of Ontario’s Express Entry Skilled Trades Stream is disappointing news, multiple pathways remain available for skilled trades workers. The federal Trade occupation category under Express Entry offers a viable alternative with competitive CRS scores, and other OINP streams continue to accept applications.
Stay informed about immigration updates, maintain accurate documentation, and consider consulting with a regulated immigration professional to identify the best pathway for your situation.
