Ontario’s New Employment Law Coming In 2026 Makes Job Seeker Ghosting Illegal For Employers

Starting January 1, 2026, Ontario will officially ban ghosting job seekers after an interview. Under the new Working for Workers Act, employers with 25 or more employees must notify every candidate they interview of their status within 45 days.

Silence will no longer be an option, and failure to respond could bring serious fines for employers. This makes Ontario the first jurisdiction in North America to outlaw employment ghosting after an interview, setting a new bar for hiring practices for employers.

What the New Law Will Require of Employers In Ontario:

• Respond to all candidates: Interviewed applicants must be contacted within 45 days (decision, rejection, or “still under review” counts).

• Salary disclosure: All job postings must include pay ranges or expected compensation.

• No ghost ads: Post only jobs that are real and being actively filled.

• AI disclosure: Inform candidates if AI is used in screening or hiring.

• No “Canadian experience” requirement: Ads cannot demand it.

• Record-keeping: Store all hiring records (applications, postings, interview notes) for 3 years.

Penalties For Employer Violations:

• First violations: Likely warnings or compliance orders.

• Repeat violations: Employers may face fines up to $100,000.

What This Means For Ontario Job Seekers:

• You are legally entitled to hear back within 45 days after your interview.

• Expect to see salary information and AI usage disclosure in postings.

• You cannot be screened out just because you lack “Canadian experience.”

• If you are ghosted, you can file a complaint with Ontario’s Ministry of Labour.

Contact us today to discuss your situation with a paid online consultation. We can be reached at www.bprlitigation.com or by email at justin@bprlitigation.com. We would be happy to arrange a consultation to assist you further and address your specific questions and needs regarding these or other legal issues.