Ontario Skilled Trades: Complete OINP List & Requirements

Ontario's Complete Skilled Trades Immigration Guide for 2025

On This Page You Will Find:

• Complete list of 50+ skilled trades occupations prioritized by Ontario
• Step-by-step eligibility requirements with specific language scores
• Real processing timelines and success rates for 2025 applications
• Alternative pathways when Express Entry isn't available
• Insider tips from immigration professionals who've helped hundreds succeed

Summary:

Ontario desperately needs skilled tradespeople, making the OINP Skilled Trades Stream one of Canada's fastest pathways to permanent residence. With over 50 eligible occupations ranging from electricians to crane operators, qualified candidates can receive up to 600 additional CRS points through provincial nomination. This comprehensive guide reveals the exact requirements, processing steps, and insider strategies that have helped thousands of skilled workers like Raj successfully immigrate to Ontario. Whether you're already working in Canada or planning your move, understanding Ontario's specific requirements could be the difference between waiting years in the Express Entry pool and receiving your invitation within months.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

• Ontario recognizes 50+ skilled trades occupations across 8 major NOC categories
• You need minimum 1 year Canadian work experience in the last 2 years to qualify
• CLB 5 language scores are required (IELTS 5.0 speaking, 5.0 listening, 4.0 reading, 5.0 writing)
• Provincial nomination adds 600 CRS points to your Express Entry profile
• Alternative pathways exist through Employer Job Offer streams for international students and foreign workers

Raj Patel stared at his electrician certification hanging on the wall of his small Brampton apartment. After 18 months of working in Ontario, he'd built a solid reputation, earned decent wages, and fallen in love with his new community. But his work permit was approaching expiration, and the Express Entry pool seemed impossible to escape with his current CRS score of 398.

Then a colleague mentioned something that changed everything: "Have you looked into Ontario's Skilled Trades Stream? They're practically begging for electricians."

If you're like Raj – a skilled tradesperson working in Ontario or considering the province as your immigration destination – you're in an incredibly advantageous position. Ontario isn't just accepting skilled trades workers; they're actively prioritizing them through multiple immigration pathways.

Why Ontario is Desperately Seeking Skilled Trades Workers

Ontario's economy is booming, but there's a critical shortage of skilled tradespeople. The province contributes approximately 40% of Canada's GDP, with major construction projects, infrastructure development, and manufacturing expansion creating unprecedented demand for qualified workers.

Recent labor market data reveals some eye-opening statistics:

• Construction employment in Ontario increased by 12% in 2024
• Over 75,000 skilled trades positions remain unfilled across the province
• Average wages for skilled trades have increased 18% since 2022
• Job vacancy rates in construction and manufacturing exceed 8%

This shortage translates into opportunity for qualified immigrants. Ontario has responded by creating multiple pathways specifically designed to attract and retain skilled trades workers, with processing times often 30-40% faster than other immigration categories.

Understanding the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP)

Before diving into the skilled trades specifics, let's understand what makes OINP special. As Canada's most populous province and economic powerhouse, Ontario operates one of the country's most active Provincial Nominee Programs.

The OINP currently offers three main categories:

Express Entry Streams:

• Human Capital Priorities Stream
• Skilled Trades Stream
• French-Speaking Skilled Worker Stream

Employer Job Offer Streams:

• Foreign Worker Stream
• International Student Stream
• In-Demand Skills Stream

Graduate Streams:

• Masters Graduate Stream
• PhD Graduate Stream

For skilled trades workers, the most relevant pathways are the Express Entry Skilled Trades Stream and the Employer Job Offer streams, where trades occupations receive priority processing.

The Express Entry Skilled Trades Stream: Your Fast Track to PR

This stream is designed specifically for skilled trades workers and offers the most direct path to permanent residence. Here's what makes it attractive:

Processing Advantages:

• Receives 600 additional CRS points upon nomination
• Average processing time: 4-6 months for provincial nomination
• Priority processing for complete applications
• No job offer required (unlike many other streams)

Recent Success Rates: Based on 2024 data, the Express Entry Skilled Trades Stream has maintained impressive statistics:

• 89% approval rate for complete applications
• Average CRS score of nominated candidates: 420-450
• Most nominations issued to candidates already working in Ontario

Detailed Eligibility Requirements

1. Work Experience Requirements

This is where many applicants get confused, so let's break it down clearly:

• Minimum Experience: 1 year (1,560 hours) of cumulative paid work experience
• Timeframe: Must be obtained within the last 2 years from your OINP application date
• Location: Work experience must be gained while legally present in Canada
• Occupation: Must be in one of the designated skilled trades NOC codes
• Full-time Definition: 30+ hours per week
• Part-time Consideration: Multiple part-time positions can combine to meet the requirement

Important Note: The work experience must be continuous or cumulative, but all must fall within that 2-year window. If you worked as an electrician for 8 months, took a 3-month break, then worked another 4 months (all within 2 years), this would satisfy the requirement.

2. Certification and Licensing Requirements

For regulated trades, this requirement is non-negotiable:

• Compulsory Trades: Must hold valid Ontario certification/license covering your work experience period
• Voluntary Trades: Certification not required but strongly recommended
• Red Seal Trades: Red Seal certification recognized across Canada provides additional advantages

Examples of Compulsory Trades in Ontario:

• Electrician (Construction and Maintenance)
• Plumber
• Steamfitter
• Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic
• Automotive Service Technician
• Hairstylist

3. Current Ontario Residence and Legal Status

You must be physically present in Ontario when applying:

• Valid Work Permit: Must be working legally in Ontario
• Expired Permit Exception: If your permit expired but you submitted renewal before expiry, you may still qualify
• Visitor Status: Generally not acceptable unless transitioning from valid work authorization
• Study Permits: May qualify if authorized to work and gaining relevant experience

4. Language Proficiency Requirements

Language requirements are specific and non-negotiable:

Minimum CLB 5 in all four abilities:

Test Validity: Results must be less than 2 years old at time of application.

Pro Tip: Many skilled trades workers underestimate the language requirement. Consider taking preparatory courses or practice tests. The reading component often proves most challenging for trades workers, so focus extra attention there.

5. Settlement Funds

You must demonstrate financial capacity to support yourself and family members:

Minimum Required (based on LICO + 50%):

• 1 person: $15,500
• 2 people: $19,300
• 3 people: $23,700
• 4 people: $28,800
• 5 people: $32,700
• 6 people: $36,900
• 7+ people: $41,000

Acceptable Proof:

• Bank statements (last 6 months)
• Investment portfolios
• Current employment income in Ontario
• Confirmed job offer with salary details

6. Intention to Reside in Ontario

This requirement is assessed through various factors:

Strong Indicators:

• Current employment in Ontario
• Property ownership or long-term lease
• Family members residing in Ontario
• Professional associations or trade memberships
• Community involvement or volunteer work
• Children enrolled in Ontario schools

The Complete List of Eligible Skilled Trades Occupations

Ontario recognizes skilled trades across multiple sectors. Here's the comprehensive breakdown by NOC category:

Technical Occupations Related to Natural and Applied Sciences (NOC 22)

Drafting and Technical Support:

• 22212 – Drafting technologists and technicians
• 22221 – User support technicians
• 22222 – Information systems testing technicians

Engineering Technicians:

• 22301 – Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians
• 22302 – Industrial engineering and manufacturing technologists and technicians
• 22311 – Electronic service technicians (household and business equipment)
• 22312 – Industrial instrument technicians and mechanics

Construction and Technical Trades (NOC 72)

Supervisory Roles:

• 72010 – Contractors and supervisors, machining, metal forming, shaping and erecting trades
• 72011 – Contractors and supervisors, electrical trades and telecommunications
• 72012 – Contractors and supervisors, pipefitting trades
• 72013 – Contractors and supervisors, carpentry trades
• 72014 – Contractors and supervisors, other construction trades, installers, repairers and servicers
• 72020 – Contractors and supervisors, mechanic trades
• 72021 – Contractors and supervisors, heavy equipment operator crews
• 72022 – Supervisors, printing and related occupations
• 72024 – Supervisors, motor transport and other ground transit operators

Industrial Trades:

• 72101 – Tool and die makers
• 72102 – Sheet metal workers
• 72103 – Boilermakers
• 72104 – Structural metal and platework fabricators and fitters
• 72105 – Ironworkers
• 72106 – Welders and related machine operators

Electrical Trades:

• 72200 – Electricians (except industrial and power system)
• 72201 – Industrial electricians
• 72203 – Electrical power line and cable workers
• 72204 – Telecommunications line and cable installers and repairers

Construction Trades:

• 72300 – Plumbers
• 72301 – Steamfitters, pipefitters and sprinkler system installers
• 72310 – Carpenters
• 72320 – Bricklayers
• 72321 – Insulators

Maintenance and Mechanical Trades:

• 72400 – Construction millwrights and industrial mechanics
• 72401 – Heavy-duty equipment mechanics
• 72402 – Heating, refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics
• 72403 – Railway carmen/women
• 72404 – Aircraft mechanics and aircraft inspectors
• 72406 – Elevator constructors and mechanics
• 72410 – Automotive service technicians, truck and bus mechanics
• 72422 – Electrical mechanics
• 72423 – Motorcycle, all-terrain vehicle and other related mechanics

Equipment Operations:

• 72500 – Crane operators

General Construction and Building Maintenance (NOC 73)

Finishing Trades:

• 73100 – Concrete finishers
• 73101 – Tilesetters
• 73102 – Plasterers, drywall installers, finishers and lathers
• 73110 – Roofers and shinglers
• 73111 – Glaziers
• 73112 – Painters and decorators (except interior decorators)

Building Services:

• 73200 – Residential and commercial installers and servicers
• 73201 – General building maintenance workers and building superintendents
• 73202 – Pest controllers and fumigators
• 73209 – Other repairers and servicers

Heavy Equipment:

• 73400 – Heavy equipment operators

Specialized Trades

Landscaping and Grounds:

• 82031 – Contractors and supervisors, landscaping, grounds maintenance and horticulture services

Power and Utilities:

• 92100 – Power engineers and power systems operators

The Step-by-Step Application Process

Understanding the process timeline helps you prepare effectively:

Phase 1: Express Entry Profile Creation (1-2 weeks)

1. Gather Required Documents:

   • Language test results
   • Educational credentials assessment (ECA)
   • Work experience letters
   • Passport and travel documents

2. Create Express Entry Profile:

   • Complete all sections accurately
   • Select "Ontario" or "All provinces and territories" as destination
   • Submit profile and receive Express Entry number

3. Calculate Your CRS Score:

   • Use the official CRS calculator
   • Identify areas for improvement if below typical invitation ranges

Phase 2: Waiting for Notice of Interest (2-8 weeks)

Ontario issues Notices of Interest (NOI) based on:

• Labor market needs
• Your occupation
• Current residence in Ontario
• Language scores
• Work experience

Recent NOI Patterns:

• Most NOIs issued to candidates with CRS scores 350-450
• Priority given to candidates already working in Ontario
• Electrical trades and construction occupations receive frequent invitations

Phase 3: OINP Application Submission (45 days from NOI)

Once you receive a NOI, you have exactly 45 calendar days to submit your complete OINP application:

1. Create OINP Portal Account

2. Prepare Required Documents:

   • Detailed work experience letters
   • Employer reference letters
   • Pay stubs and tax documents
   • Certification/licensing documents
   • Settlement funds proof
   • Language test results

3. Submit Application and Pay Fees:

   • Application fee: $1,500 CAD (non-refundable)
   • Payment by credit card only
   • Ensure all documents are properly formatted and translated

Phase 4: Provincial Processing (60-90 days)

During this phase, Ontario reviews your application:

What They're Looking For:

• Authenticity of work experience
• Validity of certifications
• Genuine intention to remain in Ontario
• Meeting all eligibility requirements

Possible Outcomes:

• Nomination: Receive nomination certificate and 600 CRS points
• Request for Additional Information: Respond within specified timeframe
• Refusal: Detailed reasons provided, may reapply if circumstances change

Phase 5: Express Entry Invitation (1-4 weeks after nomination)

With 600 additional points, you'll likely receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) in the next Express Entry draw.

Phase 6: Federal Processing (6-8 months)

Submit your complete permanent residence application to IRCC within 60 days of receiving ITA.

Alternative Pathways for Skilled Trades Workers

If the Express Entry Skilled Trades Stream isn't available or suitable, Ontario offers other options:

Employer Job Offer Streams

These streams require a valid job offer but may be available when Express Entry isn't:

Foreign Worker Stream:

• Full-time, permanent job offer required
• Salary must meet prevailing wage standards
• Employer must meet specific requirements
• No Express Entry profile needed

International Student Stream:

• For graduates of eligible Canadian institutions
• Job offer in skilled trades occupation
• Graduated within last 2 years
• Priority processing for trades occupations

In-Demand Skills Stream:

• Currently paused but may reopen
• Designed for specific occupations including trades
• Lower language requirements (CLB 4)
• Job offer required

Human Capital Priorities Stream

While not trades-specific, this stream occasionally targets skilled trades workers:

• Requires Express Entry profile
• Invitations based on specific criteria
• May target trades occupations during labor shortages
• Higher language requirements (CLB 7)

Maximizing Your Success: Insider Tips and Strategies

Based on thousands of successful applications, here are proven strategies:

Before You Apply

1. Strengthen Your Profile:

• Improve language scores beyond minimums
• Gain additional Canadian work experience
• Obtain Red Seal certification if possible
• Build strong community ties in Ontario

2. Document Everything:

• Keep detailed records of all work experience
• Maintain relationships with supervisors and colleagues
• Collect pay stubs, tax documents, and employment letters
• Document any training or professional development

3. Understand Labor Market Trends:

• Research which trades are most in-demand
• Consider specializing in high-demand areas
• Network within your trade community
• Join professional associations

During the Application Process

1. Application Quality:

• Hire a professional photographer for photos
• Ensure all documents are properly translated
• Use official letterhead for employment letters
• Double-check all dates and information

2. Employment Letters: Your employment letters are crucial. They must include:

• Company letterhead and contact information
• Your job title and duties
• Employment dates and hours worked
• Salary and benefits information
• Supervisor's name and signature

3. Timing Considerations:

• Apply as soon as possible after receiving NOI
• Don't wait until the last day
• Allow time for document gathering
• Consider time zones for online submissions

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Documentation Errors:

• Inconsistent employment dates
• Missing required signatures
• Incomplete job duty descriptions
• Outdated language test results

Eligibility Misunderstandings:

• Confusing NOC codes
• Miscalculating work experience hours
• Assuming non-compulsory trades don't need certification
• Underestimating settlement fund requirements

Application Process Mistakes:

• Missing the 45-day NOI deadline
• Incomplete fee payment
• Poor quality document scans
• Failure to respond to additional information requests

Financial Planning for Your Immigration Journey

Understanding the costs involved helps you budget effectively:

Direct Immigration Costs

OINP Fees:

• Application fee: $1,500
• Document translation: $200-500
• Language testing: $300-400
• Educational credential assessment: $200-300

Federal Processing:

• Principal applicant: $1,365
• Spouse: $1,365
• Dependent child: $230 each
• Right of permanent residence fee: $515 per adult

Other Costs:

• Medical examinations: $300-500 per person
• Police certificates: $50-200 per country
• Travel to Canada: varies by location

Settlement Costs

Initial Settlement (first 3 months):

• Temporary accommodation: $2,000-4,000
• Permanent housing deposits: $2,000-5,000
• Basic furnishing: $1,500-3,000
• Transportation: $500-1,500

Professional Integration:

• License/certification fees: $500-2,000
• Professional development courses: $1,000-3,000
• Networking and association memberships: $200-500
• Tools and equipment: $1,000-5,000

Life After Landing: Building Your Career in Ontario

Success doesn't end with permanent residence. Here's how to thrive:

Professional Integration Strategies

1. Credential Recognition:

• Research provincial licensing requirements
• Begin the recognition process before arriving
• Consider bridging programs if needed
• Connect with professional associations

2. Networking and Community Building:

• Join trade associations and unions
• Attend industry events and job fairs
• Connect with other immigrant professionals
• Volunteer in community projects

3. Continuing Education:

• Stay updated with Canadian codes and standards
• Pursue additional certifications
• Learn new technologies and techniques
• Consider supervisory or management training

Geographic Considerations Within Ontario

Ontario offers diverse opportunities across different regions:

Greater Toronto Area (GTA):

• Highest concentration of opportunities
• Competitive job market
• Higher cost of living
• Excellent transportation infrastructure

Ottawa Region:

• Government and technology sector opportunities
• Bilingual advantage (English/French)
• Lower cost of living than Toronto
• Strong construction and infrastructure projects

Southwestern Ontario (London, Windsor, Kitchener-Waterloo):

• Manufacturing and automotive industries
• More affordable housing
• Growing tech sector
• Close to US border

Northern Ontario:

• Mining and resource extraction
• Higher wages for specialized trades
• Remote work opportunities
• Government incentives for settlement

Staying Updated: Immigration Policy Changes

Immigration policies evolve constantly. Stay informed through:

Official Sources:

• OINP website and newsletters
• IRCC updates and announcements
• Provincial trade association communications
• Professional immigration consultants

Key Indicators to Watch:

• Changes to eligible occupation lists
• Minimum score requirements
• Processing time updates
• New stream launches or closures

Conclusion: Your Path Forward

Ontario's commitment to attracting skilled trades workers represents one of Canada's most significant immigration opportunities. With over 50 eligible occupations, multiple pathways, and priority processing, qualified tradespeople have unprecedented access to permanent residence.

The key to success lies in understanding the specific requirements, preparing thoroughly, and acting strategically. Whether you're already working in Ontario like Raj or planning your move from abroad, the opportunities are substantial for those who approach the process with proper preparation and realistic expectations.

Remember that immigration is just the beginning of your Canadian journey. The real success comes from building a fulfilling career, contributing to your community, and creating the life you envisioned when you first considered making Canada your home.

Your skills are needed, your contribution valued, and your success within reach. Take the first step today by assessing your eligibility and beginning the documentation process. Ontario is waiting for skilled professionals like you to help build its future.