Ontario Employer Job Offer
The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) officially revoked and closed the former Employer Job Offer: In-Demand Skills Stream. Ontario officially closed its former nine-stream structure on June 26, 2026, replacing legacy pathways with the consolidated Ontario Workforce Priority (OWP) Stream.
All uninvited Expressions of Interest (EOIs) submitted under the former In-Demand Skills pathway were withdrawn. Candidates in NOC TEER 4 and 5 occupations must now apply under the dedicated TEER 4-5 pathway within the new OWP structure.
Overview of Program Changes: Legacy vs. OWP TEER 4-5 Pathway
| Program Feature | Legacy In-Demand Skills Stream | Consolidated OWP Stream (TEER 4-5 Pathway) |
| Stream Status | REVOKED / CLOSED | ACTIVE (EOI portal opened August 2026) |
| Occupational Scope | Restricted list of TEER 4 and 5 NOCs | All NOC TEER 4 and 5 occupations eligible |
| Mandatory Work Experience | 9 months in Ontario in specific NOCs | 9 months cumulative experience in job offer position with same employer |
| Language Threshold | CLB 4 across all abilities | CLB 4 in English or French |
| Education Requirement | High school diploma or ECA equivalent | Canadian secondary school diploma or ECA equivalent |
| Employer Portal Requirement | Standard employer attestation | Mandatory prior employer position approval via portal |
Understanding the TEER 4-5 Ontario Workforce Priority (OWP) Pathway Rules
The consolidated Ontario Workforce Priority stream expands eligibility to essential workforce categories while introducing stricter employer alignment requirements.
What Work Experience Is Required for TEER 4-5 Workers?
To qualify under the TEER 4-5 pathway of the OWP stream, applicants must demonstrate at least 9 months of cumulative, paid, full-time work experience (or equivalent part-time) inside Ontario. This experience must be completed within the 2 years prior to application submission, in the exact job offer position, and with the same employer making the offer.
Are All TEER 4 and 5 Occupations Eligible?
Yes. Unlike the legacy In-Demand Skills stream, which restricted eligibility to a specific list of NOC codes, the OWP stream allows employers to seek approval for positions across all NOC TEER 4 and 5 occupations, provided the business meets provincial operational thresholds.
How Do Construction Industry Special Provisions Apply?
For specialized construction trades, project-based employment models remain recognized. Validation from recognized labor unions (such as LiUNA or IBEW) can meet position requirements for project-based union tradespeople.
Validate Your TEER 4-5 Pathway
Ensure your employment history meets the 9-month requirement under the new OWP framework. Schedule an assessment with ImmigCanada today.
Step-by-Step Overview of the TEER 4-5 OWP Process
- Employer Application: The Ontario employer applies through the OINP portal to obtain approval for the employment position.
- Candidate EOI Profile: Once the position is registered, the worker submits an EOI in the updated OWP portal.
- Invitation to Apply (ITA): Selected candidates receive an official invitation during provincial intake draws.
- Filing Documentation: The candidate completes the formal application within the designated timeframe and pays the $1,500 CAD provincial fee.
- Nomination & Federal PR: Upon provincial approval, the candidate applies for permanent residence through IRCC.
Alternative Pathways for Essential & Entry-Level Workers
If you do not meet the OWP TEER 4-5 stream requirements, consider these alternative routes:
| Alternative Route | Core Eligibility Criteria | Strategic Advantage |
| Mobilité Francophone Work Permit | CLB 5 in French + Job offer outside Quebec | LMIA-exempt work permit to build Canadian experience |
| Agri-Food Pilot / Federal Pathways | Qualifying experience in agriculture/meat processing | Direct federal PR pathway for designated industries |
| Other Provincial Nominee Programs | Varies (e.g., Alberta Opportunity Stream, MPNP) | Alternative regional PNP options for TEER 4 and 5 workers |
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Ontario officially revoked the stream on June 26, 2026. All applications for TEER 4 and 5 workers must now go through the Ontario Workforce Priority Stream.
All previous EOI profiles under the In-Demand Skills stream were cancelled and withdrawn. Applicants must submit a new profile under the OWP framework.
No. The TEER 4-5 pathway requires at least 9 months of prior work experience inside Ontario with the sponsoring employer, making it exclusive to individuals already working in the province.
Trusted Immigration Guidance with ImmigCanada
Navigating provincial program overhauls requires expert support. ImmigCanada provides clear legal representation to help workers and employers adapt to Ontario’s consolidated immigration system.
Directed by Eivy Joy Quito, a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC #R512178), ImmigCanada helps clients complete nomination applications. Whether you need support with the new OWP stream or alternative provincial routes, Eivy Joy Quito and her team deliver professional service tailored to your needs. Contact ImmigCanada today to schedule your consultation.