The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) is an immigration program that allows the Province of Ontario to nominate foreign workers, international students, and business people for Canadian permanent residence.
The OINP helps Ontario meet its labour market needs and support economic growth by selecting candidates with the skills, education, and experience needed in the province. Applicants who receive a provincial nomination from Ontario may apply for permanent residence through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.
OINP Intake Systems
The OINP uses two intake systems to manage applications. Before applying, candidates must register in one of the following systems to indicate interest in being invited to apply:
1. Expression of Interest (EOI) System
Most OINP streams operate through the Expression of Interest system. Candidates create a profile and are ranked based on factors such as skills, work experience, education, and job offers. The highest-ranking candidates may receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
2. Express Entry System
Some OINP streams are aligned with the federal Express Entry system. Candidates must have an active Express Entry profile and may receive a notification of interest from Ontario. If nominated, they receive additional Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points.
OINP Streams
The OINP has 9 streams across three main pathways:
1. Employer Job Offer Category
For skilled foreign workers and international students with a valid job offer from an Ontario employer.
- Foreign Worker Stream
- International Student Stream
- In-Demand Skills Stream
2. Human Capital Category
For skilled workers and graduates with strong education, work experience, and language ability.
- Human Capital Priorities Stream
- French-Speaking Skilled Worker Stream
- Skilled Trades Stream
- Master’s Graduate Stream
- PhD Graduate Stream
3. Business Category
For experienced entrepreneurs who want to start a new business or buy an existing business in Ontario.
- Entrepreneur Stream