Ontario Overhauls Immigration Program: Faster Path to PR for In-Demand Workers

Ontario is transforming its Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) to better align immigration with labour market needs and address critical workforce shortages. The redesigned program streamlines eight existing streams into four, strengthening eligibility requirements, reducing duplication, and creating clearer pathways for applicants and employers.

Key Changes

• New Ontario Workforce Priority (OWP) Stream: Launched first, it connects eligible workers with job offers to permanent residence.
• Minimum language and education requirements for applicants.
• Work experience criteria that prioritize Ontario-based experience and direct employer linkages.
• Lower revenue thresholds so smaller Northern and rural businesses can access the OINP.
• Greater flexibility for applicants to qualify for related roles (e.g., a nurse could qualify as a Personal Support Worker while achieving credential equivalency).

Cracking Down on Abuse

Through the Working for Workers Six Act, 2024, Ontario has strengthened oversight, increased penalties, and introduced stronger enforcement measures. Since 2018, administrative orders and program bans have increased from zero to over 200.

Quick Facts

• The OINP allows Ontario to nominate individuals for permanent residence; the federal government makes final decisions.
• The Expression of Interest system closed temporarily on June 25, 2026, and will reopen later this summer.
• Applications already in progress under the old structure will continue unaffected.
• In 2025, Ontario nominated 10,750 candidates for permanent residence.
• The integrity team conducted 485 site inspections and issued 56 bans and 76 administrative penalties in 2025.

"Targeted skilled immigration is key to building our workforce and securing Ontario's economic future," said David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. A modernized OINP ensures every nomination delivers outcomes for Ontario's economy and communities.