
On January 2, 2025, the Government of Ontario launched the Regional Economic Development through Immigration (REDI) pilot program. This strategic initiative aims to address labor shortages and stimulate economic growth in select rural and northern communities. Running until December 31, 2025, the one-year pilot program is administered through the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) and seeks to attract up to 800 skilled immigrants to four designated regions:
- Lanark County
- Leeds and Grenville (United Counties)
- Sarnia-Lambton
- City of Thunder Bay
Objectives of the REDI Pilot Program
The REDI program aims to fill critical labor gaps in key industries, including healthcare, technology, and skilled trades. By welcoming skilled professionals, the initiative strives to:
- Enhance local economies by addressing labor shortages.
- Support employers in hiring qualified talent for essential business operations.
- Encourage skilled immigrants to settle in rural and northern communities, fostering diversity and regional development.
Structure and Allocation of Nominations
The program has allocated 200 nomination spaces per region, totaling 800 nominations for 2025. These are distributed through the following OINP Employer Job Offer streams:
- Foreign Worker Stream
- International Student Stream
- In-Demand Skills Stream
This approach ensures the labor needs of each region are met by attracting skilled professionals aligned with local economic demands.
Eligibility Criteria for Applicants
Applicants must meet the eligibility requirements of one of the OINP Employer Job Offer streams and secure a valid, full-time, and permanent job offer from an employer located in one of the designated regions.
General Requirements
- Intent to reside in Ontario: Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to living and working in Ontario.
- Licensing or authorization: For regulated occupations, candidates must possess the credentials required to practice in Ontario.
Stream-Specific Requirements
Foreign Worker Stream
- Job Offer: Must be in a TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 occupation.
- Wage: Offer must meet or exceed the median wage for the occupation in Ontario.
- Experience: At least two years of work experience in the same occupation within the last five years.
International Student Stream
- Education: Must have completed a program from an eligible Canadian institution.
- Application Timing: Applications must be submitted within two years of completing the educational credential.
In-Demand Skills Stream
- Job Offer: Must be in an occupation listed as in-demand in Ontario.
- Language Proficiency: Minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 4 or higher.
- Experience: At least nine months of cumulative paid full-time work experience in Ontario within the past three years.
Application Process
Candidates submit applications via the OINP Expression of Interest (EOI) system. There is no separate application process for the REDI pilot. Applicants must:
- Select the appropriate Employer Job Offer stream.
- Specify the job offer’s location within one of the pilot communities.
The OINP will conduct targeted draws to invite candidates whose profiles match the labor needs of the participating regions.
Benefits to Participating Communities
The REDI pilot is expected to significantly benefit participating communities by:
- Addressing labor shortages in key sectors, allowing businesses to operate efficiently and grow.
- Stimulating economic development through skilled workforce contributions.
- Fostering community diversity and inclusive growth.
Collaboration with Local Stakeholders
The program’s success relies on partnerships between the OINP and key stakeholders, such as:
- Municipal governments
- Economic development organizations
- Chambers of commerce
- Settlement agencies
- Educational institutions
These stakeholders will play a vital role in promoting the program, assisting employers, and helping newcomers settle into their communities.
Future Outlook
Building on the success of the OINP Regional Pilot, the REDI program seeks to distribute the benefits of economic immigration more evenly across Ontario. By addressing specific regional labor needs and facilitating skilled immigration to rural and northern areas, the initiative aims to create a more balanced provincial economy.
The outcomes of the REDI pilot will help shape future policies and programs, enhancing immigration’s role in regional economic development.
Conclusion
The Regional Economic Development through Immigration (REDI) pilot program is a forward-thinking initiative by the Government of Ontario to address labor shortages and foster economic growth through skilled immigration. By matching the talents of newcomers with regional economic needs, the program benefits both immigrants and local communities.
As the pilot progresses, continued collaboration with local stakeholders and monitoring outcomes will be key to its success and potential expansion beyond 2025.
Contact Us to Check Your Eligibility!
📍 Level 3, The Offices 3, One Central, World Trade Center, Dubai, UAE
📞 04 526 4646 | 052 969 3030 | 052 824 4040
🌐 www.askkubeir.ae