First Tech Draw in Ontario: 1,623 Express Entry Candidates Invited

Ontario’s First Tech Draw Invites 1,623 Candidates

Ontario recently conducted its first-ever tech draw under the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP). Through this draw, the province invited skilled professionals via one of Ontario’s Express Entry streams—the Human Capital Priorities (HCP) stream.

As a result, Ontario took a major step toward attracting global tech talent to meet its growing labour market needs.

Details of the July 12, 2019 Tech Draw

On July 12, 2019, Ontario targeted candidates with work experience in specific technology-related occupations. These occupations were identified using National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes.

The targeted NOC codes included:

• 2173 – Software engineers and designers
• 2174 – Computer programmers and interactive media developers
• 2147 – Computer engineers
• 2175 – Web designers and developers
• 2172 – Database analysts and data administrators
• 0213 – Computer and information systems managers

CRS Score Range and Invitations Issued

Notably, Ontario invited candidates with Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores as low as 439. The CRS score range for this draw fell between 439 and 458.

In total, 1,623 candidates with experience in tech occupations received invitations. Consequently, many professionals who previously missed federal draws gained a strong opportunity for provincial nomination.

How Ontario’s Tech Draws Work

Under the tech draw system, Ontario actively searches the Express Entry pool to identify candidates who:

• Meet the eligibility requirements of the HCP stream
• Have work experience in one of the targeted tech NOC codes

Once selected, candidates receive a Notification of Interest (NOI) from Ontario. Afterward, they can apply for provincial nomination and, ultimately, permanent residence in Canada.

Purpose of the Ontario Tech Draws

The primary goal of Ontario’s tech draws is to support Information and Communication Technology (ICT) employers. Specifically, the province aims to help businesses attract highly skilled professionals from around the world.

Moreover, the Express Entry system allows Ontario to fast-track permanent residence for qualified candidates. At the same time, it ensures that the province meets its evolving labour market demands.

OINP Invitations Issued in 2019 (Up to Date)

By mid-2019, Ontario had already issued the following number of NOIs under its Express Entry streams:

• Human Capital Priorities Stream: 4,188
• French-Speaking Skilled Worker Stream: 549
• Skilled Trades Stream: 732

Final Thoughts

Overall, Ontario’s first tech draw marked a significant milestone in Canada’s immigration landscape. By lowering CRS thresholds and targeting in-demand tech roles, Ontario created new opportunities for skilled professionals seeking permanent residence.

If you work in the tech sector, Ontario’s tech draws could be a powerful pathway to Canada.

To help you navigate the entire process, our team has the resources and skills to assist. To know more about your eligibility under different categories, simply Start your Assessment or Call (1) 905-362-9393 (Canada), +91 9586 226232 (Ahmedabad) or drop an E-mail at support@spscanada.com (Canada), support.amd@spscanada.com (Ahmedabad) for further information.