GLITZ TV
The Ontario government is set to introduce groundbreaking legislation that could make it the first province in Canada to eliminate the requirement of Canadian work experience in job postings and application forms for internationally-trained immigrants. The proposed legislation aims to open up opportunities in fields that align with the immigrants’ educational backgrounds, allowing them to apply for positions that match their qualifications. This move comes as part of the government’s commitment to address labor shortages and ensure that newcomers have access to well-paying and rewarding careers.
David Piccini, the Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, emphasized the need to provide newcomers with meaningful chances to contribute to Ontario’s workforce. By removing the Canadian work experience requirement, the government aims to create a more inclusive job market that benefits both immigrants and the province as a whole.
In addition to this change, the Ontario government plans to implement historic legislation, effective from December 2023, that prohibits regulated professions from demanding discriminatory Canadian work experience requirements for licensing in over 30 occupations. This legislation seeks to ensure fairness and equal opportunities for internationally-trained professionals seeking to practice their chosen professions in Ontario.
Ontario is committed to attracting skilled immigrants and plans to nominate approximately 16,500 individuals for permanent residence through the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) this year. To enhance the selection process for the program, the government is considering revisions to the eligibility requirements for hundreds of one-year college graduate certificate programs across the province. This change aims to increase the pool of eligible international students who can apply for the OINP.
Minister of Citizenship and Multiculturalism, Michael Ford, highlighted Ontario’s reputation as a global leader in welcoming newcomers from diverse backgrounds. He praised the proposed legislation for its potential to break down barriers and make it easier for internationally-trained immigrants to find meaningful employment, thus contributing to the growth and development of Ontario. The elimination of Canadian work experience requirements is expected to create more vibrant communities, support families settling into their new homes, and provide businesses with the skilled talent they need.
Furthermore, the government aims to enhance oversight and accountability in the recognition of international qualifications for regulated professions such as accountants, architects, and geoscientists. Proposed changes seek to ensure that assessments are conducted efficiently, transparently, and fairly by third-party organizations.
The legislative changes being introduced in Ontario reflect the government’s commitment to protect workers, increase their earning potential, and enable newcomers to make significant contributions to the province. Research suggests that allowing internationally-trained immigrants to work in their fields of study could potentially boost Ontario’s GDP by up to $100 billion over a five-year period.
Details of the comprehensive package of measures, building upon the Working for Workers Acts introduced in 2021, 2022, and 2023, will be unveiled in the coming days, further solidifying Ontario’s commitment to creating a prosperous and inclusive society.
