New PNP Express Entry

Ontario Introduces New Express Entry Application Streams for the Provincial Nomination Program

June 8, 2015

Overview

On June 5, 2015 the Ontario government announced the creation of two new express entry application streams for skilled workers seeking permanent residence in Ontario.  Applicants under Ontario’s Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) can now apply using the Federal Government’s  Express Entry system. The two new streams are:

1. The Human Capital Priorities Stream, and
2.  The French-Speaking Skilled Worker Stream

These application streams allow the Ontario Government to select candidates who meet the criteria for the Provincial Nomination Program out of the pool of qualified Express Entry Candidates. The Ontario Government is permitted to issue 5200 PNP nominations for 2015. Of those, 2,700 must be under Ontario Express Entry.

Qualification Requirements

To qualify, applicants must first meet the federal requirements for Express Entry under at least one of three federal programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Canadian Experience Class, or the Federal Skilled Trade Worker Program.

After meeting the qualifications for Federal Express Entry, the applicant must then also meet the criteria for one of the Ontario Express Entry Streams.

The Human Capital Priorities Stream

Under this stream, the applicant must score a minimum of 400 points in the Comprehensive Ranking System under Express Entry. The application is then assessed based on the applicant’s work experience, education, language ability, settlement funds, and intention to reside in Ontario.

The French-Speaking Skilled Worker Stream

This stream is for bilingual applicants with strong language skills in both French and English. As with the Human Capital Priorities Stream, applicants must also establish they meet the employment, education, and financial requirements, and they must intend to reside in Ontario.

Who Should Apply

This program is suitable for skilled workers with an employment offer from a company in Ontario, and the intention to live and work permanently in Ontario. Applicants who accept a nomination under the Ontario Express Entry program will also receive an additional 600 points in the federal Comprehensive Ranking System, increasing their chances of being invited to apply for Permanent Residence.