published on 16 January 2026 @ 3:41 pm · COMMENT

Ontario Bans “Canadian Work Experience” Requirement in Job Postings

Effective January 1, 2026, Ontario has prohibited employers from requiring “Canadian work experience” in publicly advertised job postings and application forms, as part of updates to the Employment Standards Act. This change directly impacts job seekers without prior Canadian experience, particularly newcomers and international talent seeking to enter the Ontario workforce.

The policy aims to remove a long-standing barrier that critics have argued limited equitable access to employment for newcomers, often forcing qualified candidates to accept positions below their skill level and delaying career progression. By eliminating this requirement, Ontario is encouraging broader recognition of foreign credentials and experience, which should improve newcomer participation in both regulated and non-regulated professions.

filed under: IMMIGRATIONPERMANENT RESIDENCE