Ontario is making it easier for international students with a 1-year study to qualify.

The government in Ontario wants to make it easier for international students to apply for a program called the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP). They’re planning to change the rules so that more international students who complete a one-year college program in Ontario can qualify for this program. They’re introducing a new law to make these changes happen.

This is great for international students who usually struggle to become permanent residents and sometimes think about moving to other provinces.

Also, there’s a new rule that would stop employers from asking for

Canadian work experience in job ads or application forms. This means that more skilled candidates can have a fair chance during interviews.

The government might agree to these changes as soon as next week, and if they do, the new rules could start early next year.

Starting from December 1, 2023, over 30 organizations that give licenses for different jobs and professions won’t be allowed to demand Canadian work experience as a requirement for licensing.

The government is working to help newcomers find jobs more easily. They’re stopping employers from asking certain things in job ads and forms, making it fair for everyone.

They also want to make sure that when people’s qualifications are checked, it’s done fast and fairly. For jobs like accountants and architects, they’re keeping a closer eye on how outside groups check international qualifications to make sure it’s fair and transparent.

Ontario welcomes the most immigrants each year compared to other provinces. Helping newcomers use their foreign training in the jobs they studied for could make Ontario’s economy grow a lot, maybe even by $100 billion in five years.

This year, Ontario plans to choose 16,500 immigrants for permanent residence through the OINP, especially in important areas like healthcare and skilled trades.

“For far too long, too many people arriving in Canada have been funneled toward dead-end jobs they’re overqualified for. We need to ensure these people can land well-paying and rewarding careers that help tackle the labor shortage. When newcomers to Ontario get a meaningful chance to contribute, everyone wins.” David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training, and Skills Development, said.