Archive · 18 Nov 2025
Ontario Suspends Skilled Trades Immigration Stream, Returns Applications
Ontario's immigration program for skilled trades workers has been paused due to worries about cheating.
All applications were sent back, and the people who applied might be able to try again through other programs.
Over 2,600 people were affected, and some politicians want the government to fix this.
Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program's Express Entry Skilled Trades Stream suspended
All outstanding applications returned, fees refunded
Suspension due to systemic misrepresentation and fraud concerns
Applicants encouraged to consider other OINP streams
Over 2,600 applicants affected, with calls for reinstatement and transparency
- Who
- Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP), Alexa Gilmour (MPP)
- What
- Suspended Express Entry Skilled Trades Stream, returned applications
- When
- Recently, with 1,590 invitations issued on October 9, 2025
- Where
- Ontario, Canada
- Why
- Systemic misrepresentation and fraud concerns
Applicants and Supporters
Ontario Government
Application Status
Applicants and Supporters
Applicants want their applications reinstated and processed fairly
Ontario Government
Government returned applications due to concerns about fraud and misrepresentation
- Program
- Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) Express Entry Skilled Trades Stream
- Affected Applications
- Over 2,600
- Refunded Fees
- Yes
- Alternative Streams
- Employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker, International Student, In-Demand Skills
- Invitations Issued (Oct 9, 2025)
- 1,590