Ontario Suspends Skilled Trades Stream Under OINP: What Applicants Need to Know

Ontario has officially suspended the OINP Skilled Trades Stream and the Express Entry–aligned Skilled Trades Stream, according to the latest update released in November 2025. This significant decision comes as the province reassesses its labour market priorities and rebalances nominations across high-demand sectors.

The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) has long been a preferred pathway for trades professionals such as electricians, plumbers, construction workers, welders, and industrial mechanics. These occupations have consistently played a vital role in supporting Ontario’s infrastructure and economic growth. However, with shifting labour shortages and evolving workforce needs, the province has temporarily paused intake under this stream.

Why Did Ontario Suspend the Skilled Trades Stream?

The suspension is part of the province’s strategy to realign nominations with updated labour market forecasting. Ontario continues to receive high demand for PR nominations across tech, healthcare, and managerial roles. By suspending this stream temporarily, the OINP aims to prioritize sectors facing immediate shortages.

Additionally, the Express Entry Skilled Trades Stream — which allowed candidates in NOC TEER 2 and TEER 3 trades to secure a provincial nomination — has also been paused. This decision impacts candidates inside and outside Canada who were planning to use this pathway to boost their CRS scores by 600 points.

Who Is Affected?

This suspension affects:
• Candidates currently preparing applications for the Skilled Trades Stream
• Express Entry candidates targeting the OINP Skilled Trades nomination
• International workers and newcomers employed in trade occupations
• Employers relying on PR pathways to retain skilled trades workers

Those who already received a Notification of Interest (NOI) or submitted applications before the suspension will continue to be processed normally.

What Should Skilled Trades Workers Do Now?

Even with the suspension, trades professionals still have strong PR pathways in Canada:

1. Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
If you meet the eligibility criteria for Express Entry under FSTP, this pathway remains active.

2. Other OINP Streams
Depending on your profile, you may qualify under:

• Employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker Stream
• Employer Job Offer: In-Demand Skills
• Human Capital Priorities Stream (if eligible)

3. Other Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
Provinces such as Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and British Columbia continue to accept applications from skilled trades professionals.

When Will the Stream Reopen?

Ontario has not provided a specific reopening date. The suspension will likely continue until updated workforce projections and nomination allocations are finalized for 2026.

Final Thoughts

While the temporary suspension may disrupt plans for many skilled trades candidates, Ontario emphasizes that this decision is strategic and temporary. Applicants should explore alternative pathways, stay updated on future announcements, and ensure their Express Entry profiles remain active and competitive.