A new pilot project to settle immigrants in Belleville and Quinte West, Ontario begins in March.

This pilot was announced last fall as an initiative under the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP). The OINP selects candidates for permanent residence who have skill sets benefiting the provincial economy.

Fifty slots will be set aside this year for candidates to settle in Belleville and Quinte West. Currently, this two-year pilot has three participating communities: Chatham-kent, Belleville and Quinte West, and Cornwall. 

Karen Poste, Belleville manager of economic and strategic initiatives, noted the program’s benefits. Poste said her office plans to educate the local community about the benefits of immigration.

Employers wishing to hire an immigrant will be able to get help with the process from the ministry.

Applicants who have a job offer may qualify for an OINP nomination through the employer job offer category. Graduate students or those who have valuable skills and an Express Entry profile may qualify for the human capital category. The business category selects for entrepreneurs wishing to start a new business or buy an existing one. Poste said the city plans to work with employers to help bring candidates for their needs.

Soure: intelligencer.ca

Ontario.ca