In addition to the Express Entry System, which is run federally and managed by IRCC, some provinces operate their own provincial nominee programs. As part of its efforts to attract skilled immigrants, the government of Ontario recently created a new expression of interest (EOI) Scoring Grid for applicants to its Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), known as the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP). The new EOI Scoring Grid was designed to allow the OINP to select individuals best suited to fill labor gaps in Ontario, thereby contributing to Ontario’s economic success.
Although it may seem like a minor improvement to your profile, even a slight improvement can greatly enhance your chances of getting an ITA in a future OINP draw. At Ampra Immigration (Canada Immigration Consultant), we assist applicants in building stronger profiles while keeping them informed of the latest immigration updates.
How Does the EOI Scoring Grid Function?
The EOI Scoring Grid serves as Ontario’s Ranking System for comparing and contrasting qualified candidates across various OINP Streams.
Unlike random candidate selection, Ontario assigns points to candidates for each of the numerous factors that will provide evidence of your ability to achieve success in Ontario.
As a general rule, candidates with better profiles tend to get higher rankings. Candidates with higher ranks, therefore, have a greater chance of receiving an ITA in the subsequent round of invitations.
Factors That Will Be Used To Evaluate All OINP Candidates
Ontario will use the following eleven categories to rank candidates:
1. NOC TEER Category: Canada uses the National Occupation Classification (NOC) system to categorize jobs. For example, jobs listed in high-demand NOC TEER categories (i.e., those with lower numbers) may be considered first when reviewing applications submitted during periods of high demand.
2. NOC Broad Occupational Category: Ontario will review your broader occupational category, allowing for the prioritization of sectors affected by a shortage of employees.
3. Hourly Wage: Hourly wage has become a much larger factor than ever before. In general, candidates earning higher hourly wages indicate greater labor market demand; as such, they may earn higher points overall.
4. Ontario Work Experience: Previous work experience in Ontario demonstrates knowledge of the province’s labor market and is an important factor in scoring.
5. Canadian Work Experience & Earnings History
- Ontario will place more weight upon:
- Canadian work experience;
- Consistent employment over time;
- High earnings;
A consistent employment record improves your EOI Profile.
6. Legal Status in Canada: Applicants who currently hold valid legal status in Canada receive additional points. Keeping your immigration status correct remains very important.
7. Highest Level of Education: Educational qualifications remain an important part of the evaluation process. Generally speaking, candidates with higher educational qualifications earn more points.
8. Canadian Education Credentials: Those who have completed their education in Canada may also receive added preference. Earning a degree in Canada demonstrates that you have successfully adapted to Canada’s educational system.
9. Official Language Ability: The ability to communicate in either French or English remains one of the strongest factors for awarding points. Improved IELTS or CELPIP scores can greatly improve your ranking position.
10. Knowledge of Official Languages: Candidates with superior ability to communicate in both official languages of Canada are awarded more points. Improving your language skills is typically the quickest way to improve your EOI Score.
11. Regionalization (Location of Job Offer): Ontario places great value on where your job offer is located. This enables Ontario to address labor shortages across the Province, not just in major cities.
Ways To Improve Your EOI Score
Below are practical strategies for enhancing your EOI Profile:
- Increase your IELTS or CELPIP score.
- Acquire additional work experience in Ontario.
- Get paid a higher hourly wage if possible.
- Earn Canadian education credits.
- Keep valid legal status in Canada.
- Anytime you acquire new qualifications, update your EOI Profile accordingly.
- Verify that your NOC code accurately represents your job responsibilities.
- Job offers outside urban areas, especially in regional labor-deficit areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the new EOI scoring grid have a negative impact on all OINP applicants?
The revised system will be used for eligible expression-of-interest streams under the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program. The potential impact of this revision will depend upon which specific stream you are applying through.
Can I increase my EOI score after establishing my profile?
Yes. If you achieve higher language proficiency results, obtain additional work experience, earn a degree or diploma from an approved institution in Canada, or update any other relevant qualification(s), it is best to update your profile accordingly.
Is Ontario work experience valued more than before?
Yes. As part of the updated scoring grid, there is greater weight given to Ontario work experience, Canadian earning history, and employment stability.
Will my hourly rate of pay affect my score?
Yes. Hourly wages are now also included as another factor that will contribute to your overall EOI ranking.
Should I seek professional advice from an immigration expert prior to submitting an application?
Working with an experienced immigration consulting firm can help you understand recent OINP revisions, identify ways to enhance your eligibility profile, and minimize the risk of errors while completing your application.
Ampra Immigration: How We Can Assist You
All applicants have unique circumstances. Although a slight modification to your application strategy can lead to a dramatic improvement in your overall score on Ontario’s updated EOI system, there is no “one-size-fits-all” solution. Our knowledgeable immigration experts can assist you with:
- Assessing your current EOI Score
- Spotting opportunities for you to develop your profile
- Choosing the right OINP Stream
- Ensuring the accuracy of documents provided
- Guidance from beginning to end for submitting your application
