Apply for the Ontario Provincial Nominee Program (OINP) – Settle and Work in Ontario
Located in central Canada, Ontario is one of the most populous and economically influential provinces in the country. Known for its robust economy, Ontario continues to generate countless career opportunities for professionals across sectors.
Ontario actively participates in the Canada Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) and operates its own immigration stream known as the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP). Through this initiative, the province invites skilled workers and international graduates to fill workforce shortages while offering them a pathway to Canadian permanent residency.
If you wish to migrate to Canada as a permanent resident but do not meet the requirements for the Express Entry System, the OINP could be your alternative route to success.
This guide provides complete information about the Ontario PNP, including its eligibility requirements, categories, process, and documents needed. But first, let’s understand what the OINP program is.
What is the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP)?
The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) is an official immigration pathway that enables Ontario to nominate qualified candidates for permanent residence. Skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and international students with relevant qualifications and work experience can apply for nomination under this program.
While Ontario selects candidates based on its labor market requirements, the final decision on permanent residency is made by the Government of Canada.
Ontario PNP Categories
Ontario’s PNP includes three main categories through which candidates can apply for nomination:
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Employer Job Offer Category
This category targets foreign nationals with valid job offers from eligible Ontario employers. It includes three streams:
- Foreign Worker Stream: For individuals with work experience in skilled occupations.
- International Student Stream For recent graduates from recognized Ontario institutions.
- In-Demand Skills Stream For semi-skilled workers in high-demand occupations such as construction, agriculture, and personal support.
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Human Capital Category
This stream allows Ontario to select candidates directly from the Express Entry pool and includes two subcategories:
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International Graduates Stream:
For master’s and Ph.D. graduates from eligible Ontario universities who wish to live and work in the province.
- Master’s Graduate Stream
- Ph.D. Graduate Stream
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Express Entry Streams:
For candidates who have received a Notification of Interest (NOI) from Ontario and have an active Express Entry profile.
- French-Speaking Skilled Worker Stream – For bilingual professionals proficient in French and English.
- Human Capital Priorities Stream – For highly skilled workers with experience, education, and strong language ability.
- Skilled Trades Stream – For candidates with work experience in eligible trades within Ontario.
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International Graduates Stream:
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Business Category
This category is for entrepreneurs who wish to start a new business or purchase an existing one in Ontario. The Entrepreneur Stream is the only option in this category.
Successful applicants initially receive a temporary work permit support letter to establish their business. Upon meeting the agreed investment and job creation targets, they may be nominated for permanent residence.
Ontario PNP Eligibility Requirements
The table below outlines the eligibility criteria for each OINP category:
| Main Category | Subcategory | Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| Employer Job Offer | Foreign Worker Stream |
|
| In-Demand Skills Stream |
|
|
| International Student Stream |
|
|
| Human Capital | Master’s Graduate Stream |
|
| Ph.D. Graduate Stream |
|
|
| Skilled Trades Stream |
|
|
| Human Capital Priorities Stream |
|
|
| French-Speaking Skilled Worker Stream |
|
|
| Business Category | Entrepreneur Stream |
|
Required Documents for the Ontario PNP
When applying under the OINP Express Entry Human Capital Priorities Stream, candidates must provide the following documents:
- Notification of Interest (NOI) from Ontario
- Identity and civil status documents
- Proof of legal status in Canada (if applicable)
- Educational credentials and transcripts
- Language test results (IELTS or TEF scores)
- Employment records and reference letters
- Proof of settlement funds
- Updated resume
- Additional documents supporting work history or dependents (if applicable)
How to Apply for the Ontario Provincial Nominee Program (OINP)
The steps below explain the complete application process for the Ontario Provincial Nominee Program.
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Verify Your Eligibility
The first step is to confirm whether you meet the eligibility requirements for the OINP stream you wish to apply under. Make sure your qualifications, work experience, and language proficiency align with Ontario’s standards. -
Choose the Appropriate Stream
Select the most suitable Ontario immigration stream that matches your education, work experience, and career goals. Each stream has different eligibility rules and target groups. -
Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
Once you’ve chosen your preferred category, submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to the OINP. This document signals your interest in living and working in Ontario and demonstrates how your skills can contribute to the province’s economy. -
Receive a Notification of Interest (NOI)
If Ontario’s immigration officers review your EOI and find your profile suitable, you’ll receive a Notification of Interest (NOI), allowing you to move forward with the application process. -
Upload and Submit Documents
After receiving the NOI, you’ll have 45 days to upload and submit all required documents to the OINP portal. Ensure that every document is accurate, valid, and up to date. -
Create an Online Account
Next, visit the official Ontario immigration website to create your online account. You’ll need to provide complete personal, professional, and educational details to proceed with your application. -
Receive a Provincial Nomination
Once your application is assessed and found eligible, Ontario may issue a provincial nomination. This nomination significantly boosts your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score by 600 points, improving your chances of receiving an ITA (Invitation to Apply) under Express Entry. -
Receive the Invitation to Apply (ITA)
With your enhanced CRS score, you may receive an ITA from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) in the next Express Entry draw. -
Submit the Final Application
After getting your ITA, you’ll have 60 days to submit your complete PR application with all supporting documents. Ensure all details are correct, as any discrepancies or false information could result in refusal and future ineligibility. -
Await Final Confirmation
Once your application is submitted, you’ll need to wait for a decision. If approved, you will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR), officially granting you permanent resident status in Canada.
Ontario PNP Processing Time
Below is the estimated processing time for different OINP streams:
| OINP Stream | Estimated Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Express Entry: French-Speaking Skilled Worker | 30 – 60 Days |
| Express Entry: Human Capital Priorities Stream | 60 – 90 Days |
| Express Entry: Skilled Trades | 30 – 60 Days |
| Master’s Graduate | 30 – 60 Days |
| Ph.D. Graduate | 30 – 60 Days |
| Employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker | 90 – 120 Days |
| Employer Job Offer: International Student | 90 – 120 Days |
| Employer Job Offer: In-Demand Skills | 60 – 90 Days |
| Entrepreneur Stream | EOI Assessment: 30 Days Application processing time varies depending on case complexity. |
Ontario PNP Application Fee
The table below outlines the application costs for different streams under the Ontario PNP:
| Main Category | Subcategory | Application Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Employer Job Offer | Foreign Worker Stream | $1,500 (if job offer is outside the Greater Toronto Area) |
| In-Demand Skills Stream |
|
|
| International Student Stream | $1,500 | |
| Human Capital | Master’s Graduate Stream | $1,500 |
| Ph.D. Graduate Stream | $1,500 | |
| Skilled Trades Stream | $1,500 | |
| Human Capital Priorities Stream | $1,500 | |
| French-Speaking Skilled Worker Stream | $1,500 | |
| Business Category | Entrepreneur Stream |
|
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Frequently Asked Questions
The OINP allows Ontario to nominate skilled foreign workers, international students, and entrepreneurs for Canadian permanent residency. It helps the province meet labour market needs by attracting candidates with in-demand skills, education, and work experience.
You must first create an Express Entry profile and indicate interest in Ontario. If the province finds your profile suitable, you’ll receive a Notification of Interest (NOI). After receiving the NOI, you can apply to the OINP and, if nominated, get 600 additional CRS points.
In 2025, the OINP offers multiple streams such as the Human Capital Priorities Stream, Skilled Trades Stream, Employer Job Offer Stream, International Student Stream, and In-Demand Skills Stream. Each targets specific skill sets and work experience levels.
The CRS score requirement varies by draw and stream. For Express Entry–linked draws, Ontario typically invites candidates with scores ranging from 350 to 500+, depending on occupation and category. Regular monitoring of OINP draws helps identify your eligibility.
The OINP application process usually takes 2–3 months for provincial nomination and an additional 6–8 months for federal PR processing. Submitting accurate documents and meeting eligibility criteria can speed up the entire process.
