On November 14, 2025, the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) has announced the suspension of its Express Entry Skilled Trades Stream and will return all outstanding and unprocessed applications under this stream. This decision follows a program review that identified systemic compliance and enforcement concerns, including vulnerabilities to misrepresentation and fraud.
Key Details
- Suspension of Applications: OINP will no longer accept applications under the Skilled Trades Stream.
- Return of Pending Applications: All outstanding applications will be returned, and application fees refunded.
- Reason for Suspension: OINP cited that the stream, as currently structured, undermines its ability to meet Ontario’s immediate labor market needs given the province’s limited nomination allocation.
The last round of Notifications of Interest (NOIs) for this stream occurred on October 17, 2024, meaning some applications have been pending for over a year.
Program Integrity and Future Options
OINP emphasized that the suspension is necessary to maintain program integrity. Applicants affected by this change are encouraged to submit Expressions of Interest (EOIs) for other streams, particularly Job Offer streams, which remain active and are commonly used by employers and foreign workers.
Erickson Insights & Analysis
This is the first time OINP has exercised its authority to return pending applications unprocessed since gaining this power in July 2025. While this move underscores the inherent uncertainty in OINP applications, it is notable that Job Offer streams continue to be recommended, which is positive for employers relying on these pathways.
Erickson Immigration Group will continue monitoring developments and sharing updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or if you have case-specific questions.