Navigating the evolving landscape of Ontario employment law is a constant for business owners. The Ontario government announced a new “As of Right” framework, effective January 1, 2026, aimed at streamlining the certification process for out-of-province professionals. This significant change is a key part of the broader Protect Ontario through Free Trade within Canada Act, 2025. It’s designed to help Ontario businesses fill talent gaps more quickly by reducing red tape for certified workers from other provinces. The new framework will have a direct impact on hiring practices for many regulated occupations, including engineers, electricians, and architects. This is an important development for employers looking to hire skilled talent from across Canada.
How the New “As of Right” Framework Works
Under the old system, a skilled professional moving to Ontario could face months of delays while their credentials were being reviewed by a provincial regulatory authority. This new framework aims to cut that wait time to just 10 business days for deemed certification. This means a qualified worker from another province can start working almost immediately. The new regulation, Ontario Regulation 199/25, outlines the specific criteria for this deemed certification. For example, applicants must attest that their certification is in good standing and that they are not subject to any professional misconduct proceedings.
This “as of right” framework doesn’t eliminate all requirements. Ontario regulatory authorities can still impose certain conditions that apply to all certified individuals in the province. This includes things like paying a fee, obtaining malpractice insurance, or completing a police or credit check.
“This is about breaking down unnecessary barriers and helping Ontario businesses access the talent they need to grow. The new ‘as of right’ framework will be a game-changer for many industries.”
What This Means for Your Hiring and Onboarding
For Ontario employers, the new “As of Right” framework presents both opportunities and new considerations. On one hand, it opens up a larger pool of qualified candidates. This is particularly beneficial for sectors facing skills shortages. On the other hand, it means HR and management teams need to be ready to process applications from out-of-province candidates with this new, expedited process in mind.
It’s crucial to understand that deemed certification is a temporary status. Approved workers can work for a one-time, six-month period while they complete their full application to register with the Ontario regulatory authority. During this time, the employer should ensure the new hire is aware of this and is actively completing their full registration. If a final application is denied or the worker fails to complete it, their ability to practice in Ontario would cease. It’s important to build this into your onboarding and management plans.
The new “as of right” framework covers more than 50 regulatory authorities and 300 certifications. It’s a significant shift in how Ontario approaches professional labour mobility. The government has already signed reciprocal agreements with all provinces and territories except Quebec and Newfoundland and Labrador.
What Ontario Employers Should Do Next
- Review your hiring practices. Update your talent acquisition strategy to actively seek candidates from across Canada, especially in regulated professions. Make sure your recruiters and hiring managers understand the new “as of right” framework and the requirements for deemed certification.
- Establish a clear onboarding plan. For new hires under this framework, create a streamlined process to help them complete their full registration with the Ontario regulatory authority. This includes providing information, answering questions, and potentially offering support or resources.
- Stay informed. Monitor announcements from the Ontario government and relevant professional regulatory bodies. While the new “as of right” framework is a significant step, specific details and requirements may evolve.
Navigating employment law changes can be complex. The new “As of Right” framework for certified professionals is a positive step for businesses struggling to find talent, but it requires careful planning to ensure compliance. Need help navigating HR changes? Book your free HR audit today or speak with our team about how Divino can support your business.
Sources / References
- https://hicksmorley.com/2025/09/09/ontario-government-taking-significant-steps-to-break-down-interprovincial-barriers-for-certified-professionals/
- https://www.ontario.ca/document/your-guide-employment-standards-act-0/recent-changes
- https://www.ctvnews.ca/toronto/politics/queens-park/article/ontario-to-break-interprovincial-barriers-for-regulated-professions/
