You Got PR Through OINP Employer Job Offer — Can You Quit Your Job?

If you recently got your PR through the OINP Employer Job Offer stream, one question probably keeps popping up:

"Can I leave my employer now?"

The short answer? Yes, legally you can. But it’s not that simple. Let’s break it down.

Immigration Law: What Really Matters

The OINP Employer Job Offer stream works on trust. You were nominated because you had a genuine, full-time, permanent job offer from a specific employer in Ontario.

When IRCC approved your PR, they checked whether you genuinely intended to work for that employer at the time of your application.

• If you were landing in Canada as a newcomer, leaving immediately could raise concerns if it looked like you never planned to work there.

• If you were already in Canada and working for the employer when your PR was granted, what matters is whether your intentions were genuine when you applied. Leaving later because circumstances changed—better opportunities, relocation, or workplace issues—is very different from leaving from the start.

So the key takeaway: your PR isn’t “tied” to your employer. But your intentions at the time of application do matter.

Employment Law: Your Rights

Once you’re a permanent resident, you have full mobility. That means:

• You can resign.

• Your employer cannot cancel your PR.

• You’re protected under Ontario employment law.

Just be mindful of your contract. Give proper notice and check for any repayment clauses if your employer covered fees. Many of these clauses may not even be enforceable, but it’s worth knowing.

Practical Considerations: Think Twice Before Leaving Immediately

Even if it’s legal, quitting right away may not be the smartest move. Employers remember. Leaving too soon can:

• Damage professional relationships.

• Lead your employer to blacklist you, making it harder to find work in the future.

• Affect their willingness to support other nominees through OINP.

• Draw extra scrutiny if immigration sees patterns of early resignations.

Most immigration experts suggest:

• Work for a reasonable period after PR is granted.

• Show good faith in fulfilling your commitment.

• Only leave immediately for serious reasons, like a toxic work environment, non-payment, or major personal circumstances.

If genuine changes happen—layoffs, restructuring, health issues, relocation—leaving is usually fine. It’s the pre-planned “quit right after PR” that raises red flags.

Before PR Is Finalized

If you leave before your nomination or PR is approved, that’s risky. Your application could collapse because the job offer is no longer valid. In that situation, get legal advice immediately.

Bottom Line: Can You Quit After getting PR through OINP Job Offer?

• Legally: Once you’re a PR, you can switch employers.

• Immigration-wise: Your original intention to work matters. Leaving later for genuine reasons is fine.

• Practically: Think about relationships, reputations, and the risk of being blacklisted. Showing good faith goes a long way.

Stay Updated:

For more practical advice, tips, and updates on immigration and working in Canada, follow Gateway to Canada. Stay informed so you can make the best decisions for your future in Canada.