As of January 1, 2026, new provincial rules governing publicly advertised job postings have come into effect in Ontario. These changes aim to improve transparency for job seekers, promote fairness in hiring practices, and regulate the growing use of AI tools in recruitment.

Key Changes for Employers

Employers must now include the following in all publicly advertised job postings:

  • Clear compensation details, either as a specific amount or a salary range not exceeding a $50,000 spread.
  • Disclosure of any use of artificial intelligence in screening, assessing, or selecting applicants.
  • A statement confirming whether an actual job vacancy exists.
  • No Canadian experience requirements, as these can no longer be included in postings or applications.

Additionally, employers who interview candidates for a posted role must inform them of the hiring decision within 45 days of the last interview.

Who Is Exempt

These requirements do not apply to employers with fewer than 25 employees, nor to the Crown or Crown‑appointed agencies and organizations.

Requirements for Job Posting Platforms

Job posting platforms must now:

  • Provide a mechanism for reporting fraudulent job postings.
  • Maintain and display a written policy explaining how fraudulent postings are handled.

Both must be clearly visible to platform users.

Visit the new chapter on requirements related to publicly advertised job postings at Ontario.ca/ESAjobpostings.

Employers and persons who operate job posting platforms who are found to be in contravention of the ESA can be subject to enforcement action, including monetary penalties or fines.

If you need help understanding your responsibilities and rights under the ESA, you can:

  • Call the Employment Standards Information Centre at 1-800-531-5551 or TTY (for hearing impaired) at 1-866-567-8893. Information is available in many languages.

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