Ontario has now released the long awaited Expression of Interest (EOI) scoring system for the new Workforce Priority Stream.
As expected, Ontario has confirmed that both the TEER 0-3 pathway and the TEER 4-5 pathway will use the same EOI scoring system, meaning candidates across both pathways will be ranked using a single set of selection factors.
What are the Key Updates?
While many aspects of the EOI system remain familiar, the new framework introduces several notable changes that will influence which candidates receive Invitations to Apply. Here are some of the key updates:
Employer Specific Work Experience Matters
One of the most significant changes is the increased emphasis on work experience with the job offer employer. Under the previous EOI system, candidates received the maximum points after 6 months of employment with the employer. Under the new EOI system, candidates can continue earning additional points for up to two years of employment with the job offer employer.
Higher Earning History
Ontario has also raised the earnings threshold for maximum points. Previously, candidates could receive the highest score in this category with annual earnings of $40,000. Under the new scoring system, the maximum points are only available once earnings reach $70,000 (as listed on the NOA).
NOC Occupations Re-Prioritized
Ontario has re-evaluated the points awarded for each NOC type. The province has adjusted which occupation types receive the highest scores, reflecting Ontario’s current labour market priorities.
Greater Weight for Wages and Language
While the tiers for language and wages remain unchanged, Ontario has increased the number of points available for each of these factors.
Regional Employment Remains Priority
Ontario has maintained its emphasis on the location of the job offer. Candidates with employment outside the Greater Toronto Area continue to receive additional points.
Enhanced Nomination Pathway Aligned with Express Entry
Ontario has also now confirmed that the Workforce Priority Stream will include an enhanced nomination pathway aligned with the federal Express Entry system. This is an important change as enhanced nominations provide candidates with an additional 600 points in the Express Entry CRS system, effectively guaranteeing an Invitation to Apply for PR through Express Entry, and thereby faster processing to PR.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do the TEER 0-3 and TEER 4-5 pathways use different scoring systems?
No. Both pathways are ranked using the same EOI scoring system and the same set of selection factors.
How has the work experience scoring changed?
Under the previous EOI system, candidates received maximum points after 6 months of employment with the job offer employer. Under the new system, candidates can continue earning additional points for up to two years of employment with that employer.
What income is now needed for maximum points?
Previously, annual earnings of $40,000 were enough for the highest score in this category. Under the new scoring system, maximum points require earnings of $70,000, as listed on the NOA.
Does the job offer location still affect scoring?
Yes. Ontario has maintained its emphasis on the location of the job offer, and candidates with employment outside the Greater Toronto Area continue to receive additional points.
What is the enhanced nomination pathway?
It’s a nomination pathway aligned with the federal Express Entry system. Enhanced nominations provide candidates with an additional 600 points in the Express Entry CRS system, effectively guaranteeing an Invitation to Apply for PR through Express Entry.
Get Help Navigating the New OINP Framework
We are actively monitoring the rollout of the new OINP framework – including the launch date of the new EOI system. If you would like to schedule a consultation with one of our lawyers to review your options, please contact us at inquiries@lmlawgroup.com.
