On January 2, 2025, Ontario launched the Regional Economic Development through Immigration (REDI) pilot to address regional immigration needs and boost local economies. The one-year pilot sets aside 200 nominations per participating community within the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) Employer Job Offer streams, offering skilled foreign workers a pathway to permanent residence.

Participating Communities:

The REDI pilot targets skilled workers with job offers in Ontario communities such as:

• Lanark
• Leeds and Grenville
• Sarnia-Lambton
• Thunder Bay

Planned Nominations:

The one-year pilot sets aside 200 nominations per participating community within the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) Employer Job Offer streams

How It Works:

Applicants apply through the OINP Expression of Interest (EOI) system. There’s no separate application process for the REDI pilot. Those with valid job offers from employers in the designated regions are eligible for targeted pilot draws.

Eligibility Requirements:

• A job offer from an employer in one of the participating communities.
• The job must be for a skilled occupation (eligible NOC codes).
• Applicants must be willing to live and work in the community.

Why It Matters:

The REDI pilot helps fill labor gaps in regional Ontario, boosting local economies, supporting regional growth, and ensuring a more balanced immigration distribution across the province.

How to Apply:

Applicants should apply through the OINP’s EOI system. Check the OINP website for updates on eligibility and targeted draws.

The REDI pilot provides skilled workers an exciting opportunity to contribute to Ontario’s smaller communities while securing permanent residency.

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