Dear future neighbour,
Ontario has introduced changes to the Employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker stream under the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP), allowing self-employed physicians to qualify without a traditional job offer.
Previously, applicants to this stream needed a job offer from an Ontario employer, which disqualified many physicians working as independent contractors and billing through the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). However, recognizing the province’s ongoing need for healthcare professionals, Ontario has updated its immigration rules to accommodate these professionals.
New Eligibility Criteria for Physicians
As of January 27, 2025, self-employed physicians can now apply under this stream without a job offer if they meet the following requirements:
•They must be registered and in good standing with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under one of these certificate categories:
•Independent practice
•Academic practice
•Postgraduate education (which permits patient care)
•They must be eligible to receive payment for publicly funded health services under the Health Insurance Act, 1990.
This change applies specifically to physicians classified under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes 31100, 31101, and 31102.
Alternative Pathways for Physicians
For physicians who do not qualify under this updated stream, other immigration options remain available:
•OINP Express Entry Human Capital Priorities Stream – Physicians can enter the federal Express Entry pool and wait for a Notification of Interest (NOI) from Ontario.
•Federal Express Entry & Public Policy for Physicians – A federal public policy introduced on April 25, 2023, helps self-employed physicians obtain permanent residence. This policy allows physicians working under publicly funded payment models to meet federal economic immigration criteria.
What This Means for Ontario’s Healthcare Sector
Ontario’s decision to expand the eligibility criteria for self-employed physicians acknowledges the urgent demand for healthcare professionals. By easing immigration barriers, the province aims to retain and attract more doctors to support its growing population.
Do you require assistance with your express entry or provincial nomination profile, study permit or work permit application? Are you overwhelmed with the process and need to speak to a professional immigration consultant? Schedule a consultation session or send an email on info@eseumohimmigration.com to get started today.