Ontario – PNP Changes
On May 28, 2025, the Ontario government introduced Bill 30, the Working for Workers Seven Act, 2025, which proposes 18 new measures to enhance worker protections, address economic challenges like U.S. tariffs, and adapt the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) to evolving labor market needs. Below are the key proposed changes related to OINP and other relevant provisions, based on available information:
OINP-Specific Changes
Ministerial Authority Over Streams: The Act would grant the Ontario immigration minister the power to establish or eliminate OINP streams, allowing for more agile responses to labor market demands.
Application Returns: The minister could return OINP applications that no longer align with current provincial economic priorities or job market needs, ensuring the program targets in-demand skills.
Fraud Prevention Measures:
OINP officers would gain authority to conduct in-person interviews to verify applicant information and prevent fraudulent applications.
Stronger enforcement against employer fraud, such as hiding payroll, providing false information, or failing to make required payments, with job sites required to allow reporting of fake job ads to protect foreign workers.
Digitalization of Processes: The Act proposes further digitalization of the OINP application process to improve efficiency and accessibility.
Broader Workplace and Economic Measures
Protection Against Job Scams: In response to a reported $14.86 million in job scam losses in Ontario in 2024 (per the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre), the Act includes measures to enhance protections for job seekers, particularly targeting fraudulent job postings.
Support for Workers Facing Layoffs: Expanded entitlements for workers affected by layoffs, especially in the context of economic uncertainty due to U.S. tariffs, to provide better support during transitions.
