It’s no secret that there is a workforce shortage in the eastern Ontario region. Through the hard work of employers, job seekers, workforce development professionals, and EDOs, that gap in recruitment and retention in eastern Ontario is beginning to be filled. One of the ways is by attracting more international talent to the region as well as making it easier for employers to hire that talent.
Enter OINP: Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program.
What Is OINP?
The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program is a pilot program seeking to attract highly skilled immigrant workers to specific eastern Ontario communities. There are currently 150 nomination spots available for 2021 to help fill workforce gaps and spread the benefits of economic immigration in the region and beyond, in the following communities:
A Quinte West Business Successfully Found International Talent
The OINP pilot has already found success with Global Med Inc., in Quinte West. Global Med was dealing with entry level staff shortages. They needed higher skilled employees on their production lines, who were able to troubleshoot problems as they arise and make informed adjustments. They needed talent with mechanical engineering experience and/or training who could take initiative and lead.
Through OINP Global Med Inc., was able to hire 3 international students from Loyalist College. Now Global Med uses their experience to recruit more international talent to their growing business. Their new hires now have hands-on experience in their field.
Two Ways to Make OINP Work for You and International Talent
If you’re interested in OINP you have two options:
- Direct Hire: host and hire an international candidate to bring them to Canada to work.
- Job Offer Stream: Once an international candidate has been hired, the candidate can begin the process of OINP, asking their employer to nominate them for permanent residence.
More Ways to Fill the Workforce Gaps in Eastern Ontario
Learn about other employee immigrant nomination programs. Or check out other strategies to fill gaps in your workforce, like skills development.
Discover 9 programs employers can use to upskill employees or incumbent employees in eastern Ontario.
External links are provided as informational resources only and are not necessarily endorsed by Ontario East.