The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) has implemented significant updates to its Express Entry and Foreign Worker streams, effective January 27, 2025. These changes focus on self-employed physicians, allowing their self-employment experience to be considered for immigration purposes.
Incorporating Self-Employment in Work Experience Criteria for OINP Express Entry Streams
Previously, 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, self-employment was not considered valid work experience, creating barriers for self-employed professionals, particularly in the medical field.
Now, under the new amendments, self-employment in the following NOC codes can be counted towards work experience requirements:
- NOC 31100: Specialists in clinical and laboratory medicine
- NOC 31101: Specialists in surgery
- NOC 31102: General practitioners and family physicians
Applicants can choose to be assessed under one of two federal programs:
- Federal Skilled Workers Program
- Canadian Experience Class
Notably, for the Canadian Experience Class criteria, periods of self-employment in the designated NOC codes are now recognized as valid work experience.
No Job Offer Requirement for OINP Foreign Worker Stream
In a move to address healthcare shortages, the OINP has also removed the job offer requirement for physician applicants under the Employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker stream. Physicians can now qualify without a job offer if they meet the following criteria:
1.Registration and Good Standing: Applicants must be registered and in good standing with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario under one of these certificate categories:
- Independent practice
- Academic practice
- Postgraduate education
2.Eligibility for Payment: Physicians must be eligible to receive payment for publicly funded health services in accordance with Ontario’s Health Insurance Act.
These changes apply exclusively to NOC codes 31100, 31101, and 31102.
Good News for Self-Employed Physicians
By recognizing self-employment as valid work experience, Ontario’s immigration policy becomes more inclusive for self-employed physicians. This update aligns provincial policies with federal immigration programs, providing a clear pathway for international medical professionals seeking to contribute to Ontario’s healthcare system.
These changes are part of Ontario’s ongoing efforts to attract and retain top-tier medical talent and address healthcare labor shortages. For more detailed information, contact Kingsbridge Immigration. Your trusted partner in navigating Ontario’s PNP pathways for healthcare professionals.