Immigration will be used to address a rising labor shortage by bringing in a record 465,000 immigrants in 2023. Each of the following three years after 2021 and 2022 will break these records once more. It follows that the time for beginning the Canadian immigration process has never been better. Listed below are some ways to immigrate to Toronto in 2023.
Express Entry
Canadian immigration will continue to be dominated by Express Entry in 2023.
This system manages applications for three major federal programs, such as the Federal Skilled Worker program, the Canadian Experience Class program, and the Federal Skilled Trades program.
Canada plans to accept almost 83,000 Federal High Skilled immigrants in 2023, 109,000 in 2024, and 114,000 in 2025, according to the latest Immigration Levels Plan. Following the implementation of the updated National Occupational Classification (NOC 2021), the Federal Skilled Worker Program has expanded its eligibility criteria, allowing 16 more occupations to qualify for Express Entry.
It is now possible to apply to Canada’s mass entry program as a truck driver, nurse, teaching assistant, or payroll administrator, among many other professions that have recently been added.
The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program
Ontario has the possibility to suggest foreign individuals for Canadian permanent residency via the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP), a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). OINP consists of multiple unique channels, each with its own set of eligibility criteria and application procedure. For example, the Ontario Entrepreneur channel is designed for entrepreneurs possessing the necessary resources and business skills to establish a company in Ontario.
OINP presents two ideal streams for individuals residing outside of Canada:
- Ontario Human Capital Priorities (HCP); and
- Ontario French-Speaking Skilled Worker (FSSW)
Candidates for both of these streams must have a current Express Entry profile. Ontario routinely hand-selects particular candidates from the Express Entry pool through both of these streams. Ontario chooses people with experience in a priority occupation using the Human Capital Stream. Candidates need to have a CRS score of at least 400 in order for Ontario to consider them. Ontario selects applicants from the pool who have shown intermediate French ability using the French-Speaking Skilled Worker stream.
It makes sense to submit your Express Entry profile if you can qualify for one of these streams.
Provincial Nomination Program
You must submit an application directly to the Ontario provincial government in order to be considered for permanent residency under the Ontario Provincial Nomination Program. If approved, you will submit a request for permanent residence on your behalf to the Immigration and Refugee Council of Canada. By submitting an Expression of Interest for the province of Ontario through the Express Entry system, you can also seek for a provincial nomination. One advantage of using this immigration method is that provincial governments establish immigration streams specifically intended to address any labor shortages the province may be experiencing. Moreover, it is much more likely that you will receive a nomination for permanent residency if your line of work fits into one of these streams. The Ontario PNP’s streams include:
- Master’s and PhD Graduate Streams
- Foreign Worker Stream
- In-Demand Skills Stream
- Entrepreneur and Corporate Streams
Obtain a study permit in Toronto
Studying at a higher education level in Canada is an excellent method to enhance your chances of immigrating to Toronto. Numerous PNP channels focus on graduates from Canadian educational institutions, particularly universities. Moreover, your Canadian academic background might boost your Express Entry points.
Most international students who finish a higher education program in Canada are also eligible to apply for a Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP). The PGWP allows foreign graduates to stay in Canada and work for any employer for a maximum of three years. Acquiring Canadian work experience is highly advantageous for permanent immigration and significantly improves applicants’ competitiveness in the Ontario International Student PNP or the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) of Express Entry.
It is fortunate that Toronto is home to a number of highly regarded Canadian universities. One of the best universities globally, the University of Toronto consistently achieves high rankings. Additionally, Ryerson University and York University are reputable academic institutions in Canada. The city also houses smaller educational institutions that offer specialized programs, such as the technical programs at Humber College and the artistic programs at the Ontario College of Art and Design.
Choosing to study in Toronto is an excellent decision if you aim to pursue higher education and broaden your options for immigrating to Canada.
Conclusion
A variety of immigration routes are available in Toronto, making it a desirable location for immigrants. Through programs for skilled workers, education, entrepreneurship, and employment opportunities, Toronto’s diverse and vibrant city invites people from all over the world to contribute to growth, prosperity, and cultural enrichment. A successful and rewarding existence in this vibrant Canadian city can result from successfully navigating these avenues.
