Ontario will slash professional licensing wait times for out-of-province workers from several months to just 10 days starting January 1, 2026, according to the provincial government.
The new “As of Right” rules will apply to more than 300 certifications across 50+ regulatory authorities, covering professions including architects, engineers, geoscientists, land surveyors, and electricians, the government announced Monday.
Currently, Canadian professionals moving to Ontario face waits of several months to half a year before they can start work, according to the province. The changes aim to help employers fill critical skill gaps faster while building what the government calls a unified Canadian workforce.
Streamlined process for certified professionals
Under the new system, professionals certified in other provinces can begin working in Ontario within 10 days once their credentials and requirements are confirmed by the relevant regulator, the government said.
The changes affect approximately 20 per cent of occupations in Canada that are regulated, according to the province. In 2023, about 3,000 labour mobility applications were processed across 14 regulated professions and 23 compulsory trades.
“Our government is leading Canada in our efforts to protect workers by helping them find better jobs and building a more resilient, competitive and united Canadian economy,” said David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development.
Reciprocal agreements with other provinces
Ontario has signed 10 agreements with other provinces and territories to break down interprovincial barriers for both goods and workers, the government said. These agreements include reciprocal measures allowing Ontario workers to move more easily to other parts of Canada.
The changes stem from the Protect Ontario through Free Trade within Canada Act, 2025, which the government said supports its plan to boost free trade within Canada.
“By cutting red tape and eliminating costly delays for certified professionals, our government is unlocking new markets and opportunities for workers and businesses,” said Vic Fedeli, Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade.
Industry support for mobility changes
Several professional associations endorsed the changes. Professional Engineers Ontario CEO Jennifer Quaglietta said the organization is “pleased to work with the government to enhance labour mobility outcomes for qualified engineers from across our country.”
The Association of Ontario Land Surveyors said it has been collaborating with the government to support land surveyors from across Canada practicing in Ontario under the new framework.
“Land surveying is a critical profession that supports housing, infrastructure and community development,” said Al Jeraj, executive director of the Association of Ontario Land Surveyors.
The Ontario Association of Certified Engineering Technicians and Technologists said it has maintained reciprocal agreements with provincial counterparts for many years and called removing barriers for skilled workers “critical.”
The government said the changes will maintain Ontario’s worker safety and qualification standards while boosting productivity and supporting nation-building projects across critical sectors.
