In a recent development from the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP), a new Express Entry draw has issued 1,287 invitations for provincial nomination under the Skilled Trades Stream. This latest round has significantly impacted the skilled trades community by expanding the cutoff scores and targeting a wide range of trade occupations.
Key Details of the Latest OINP Express Entry Draw
Invitations Issued: 1,287
CRS Score Range: 400 to 435
Eligibility Period: Express Entry profiles created between August 22, 2023, and August 22, 2024
This draw focused on candidates with experience in one of 46 specified skilled trade occupations. Notably, the CRS score range has been adjusted, with the lower end dropping from 408 to 400, while the upper limit remains unchanged. This adjustment marks a notable change from the previous draw and provides new opportunities for trade professionals.
Eligible Occupations for This Draw
The OINP targeted candidates with experience in a variety of skilled trades, including:
- Contractors and Supervisors: Various trades including machining, electrical, and pipefitting (NOCs 72010-72022)
- Machinists and Tool Makers: (NOCs 72100-72105)
- Electricians and Power Line Workers: (NOCs 72200-72205)
- Plumbers and Pipefitters: (NOCs 72300-72310)
- Construction and Maintenance Workers: (NOCs 72400-72500, 73100-73402)
- Building Maintenance and Repair: (NOCs 73200-73209)
For a complete list of eligible occupations, refer to the detailed NOC codes provided.
Expanded CRS Score Range
The latest draw shows a broader CRS score range compared to the previous rounds, offering more chances for candidates with scores as low as 400. This change reflects OINP’s ongoing commitment to supporting skilled tradespeople in their journey to permanent residency.
How the OINP Draw Affects Candidates
Candidates who receive an invitation now have 45 days to accept it and submit a comprehensive application for provincial nomination. Successfully obtaining a provincial nomination will add 600 points to their CRS score, potentially boosting their total to between 1,000 and 1,035 points. This substantial increase virtually guarantees selection in upcoming PNP or federal Express Entry draws.
OINP Skilled Trades Stream Overview
In 2024, the OINP has issued a total of 7,699 invitations through four draws under the Skilled Trades Stream, surpassing the 7,512 invitations issued in 2023. This indicates a strong and growing focus on addressing the needs of skilled trades professionals in Ontario.
2024 Draw Summary:
- August 22, 2024: 1,287 invitations, CRS 400-435
- July 11, 2024: 1,277 invitations, CRS 408-435
- March 1, 2024: 2,583 invitations, CRS 350-424
- January 11, 2024: 2,552 invitations, CRS 350-424
Eligibility Criteria for the OINP Skilled Trades Stream
To qualify for the OINP Express Entry Skilled Trades stream, candidates must meet the following:
- Hold an active Express Entry profile.
- Have at least one year of full-time work experience in Ontario (or equivalent part-time).
- Experience must be in Major Groups 72, 73, 82, 83, 93, or Minor Group 6320 (excluding specific occupations).
This targeted approach aims to address labor shortages and support the integration of skilled trades professionals into Ontario’s workforce.
For more detailed information about the OINP Skilled Trades Stream and upcoming draws, stay tuned to official updates and guidelines.
