The Ontario PNP, officially known as the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP), was launched in 2007. Its main goal is to simplify the immigration process for individuals who want to settle in Ontario.
The program focuses on filling skill shortages in key industries, attracting international investors, and supporting the smooth settlement of newcomers in the province.
At the beginning, Ontario could only nominate up to 1,000 newcomers per year. Today, the province nominates nearly 8,000 new permanent residents annually.
Types of OINP Streams
The OINP includes both enhanced streams and base streams. Enhanced streams work with the federal Express Entry system.
Express Entry is Canada’s main immigration system for skilled workers. It uses the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) to rank candidates. Those with the highest scores receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.
Candidates who receive a provincial nomination through an enhanced stream get an additional 600 CRS points, which guarantees an ITA.
Base streams, on the other hand, are not connected to Express Entry. Applicants must submit their applications directly to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Main Categories Under OINP
The OINP offers several pathways for permanent residency. These are grouped into three categories:
1. Ontario Human Capital Category
This category includes streams designed for skilled workers who can contribute to Ontario’s labour market.
These streams give priority to candidates with strong work experience, high language scores, strong Express Entry profiles, or individuals who have studied or worked in Ontario.
The Human Capital streams include:
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Human Capital Priorities – Express Entry
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French-Speaking Skilled Worker – Express Entry
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Skilled Trades – Express Entry
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Masters Graduate
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PhD Graduate
2. Ontario Employer Job Offer Category
This category supports employers in Ontario who want to hire international talent.
Applicants must have a valid job offer from an Ontario employer. Both the employer and the applicant must meet specific criteria.
The streams include:
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Foreign Worker Stream
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International Student Stream
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In-Demand Skills Stream
3. Ontario Entrepreneur Stream
The Entrepreneur Stream is designed for experienced business owners and investors who want to start or buy a business in Ontario.
If the business is successfully established and meets program requirements, the applicant may receive a nomination for permanent residency.
Major 2024 Changes to the OINP International Student Stream
The OINP has made significant improvements to the Ontario Employer Job Offer: International Student Stream.
Previously, only those who completed a one-year graduate program that required a previous degree were eligible.
But as of January 1, 2024, students who completed any one-year Ontario College Graduate Certificate program from an eligible institution can now apply.
This change opens the door to thousands of additional international students.
Who Can Apply Under the International Student Job Offer Stream?
International students—inside or outside Canada—can apply if they have a job offer in a skilled occupation classified under NOC Type/Level 0, A, or B.
Applicants must ensure that:
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They, their employer, and the job offer meet all program requirements.
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Their employer completes and submits an Employer Form with the application.
If approved, the applicant receives an Ontario nomination and can then apply to IRCC for permanent residency.
Eligible Educational Qualifications
To qualify, applicants must have one of the following:
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A full-time undergraduate degree or diploma (minimum two years)
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A graduate degree or diploma (minimum one year)
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A one-year Ontario College Graduate Certificate
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A one-year graduate certificate from an eligible Ontario university
The applicant must have completed at least 50% of their studies in Canada at an eligible institution.
Showing Intention to Live in Ontario
Candidates must show they plan to live in Ontario. Acceptable proof includes:
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Current or past employment in Ontario
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A valid job offer
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Education completed in Ontario
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Volunteer work
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Lease agreements or property ownership
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Professional networks
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Family or social connections
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Prior visits to the province
These connections help demonstrate genuine intention to settle in Ontario.
Short FAQs About OINP
1. What is the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP)?
It is Ontario’s official immigration program that helps skilled workers, students, entrepreneurs, and investors become permanent residents.
2. What new eligibility change was introduced in 2024?
Students with a one-year Ontario College Graduate Certificate are now eligible for the International Student Job Offer Stream.
3. Which program was affected by these changes?
The Employer Job Offer: International Student Stream.
4. Can international students apply for PR through OINP?
Yes. Students with a job offer in a skilled occupation (NOC 0, A, B) can apply.
5. What educational credentials are accepted?
Two-year diplomas, one-year graduate certificates, and other valid full-time Canadian credentials.
6. How can applicants show ties to Ontario?
Through previous jobs, job offers, education, volunteer work, property, networks, or family connections.
7. How does OINP work with Express Entry?
Enhanced streams award an extra 600 CRS points, almost guaranteeing an ITA.
8. How many newcomers does OINP nominate each year?
Around 8,000 people.
9. What is the CRS?
The Comprehensive Ranking System used to rank candidates in Express Entry.
10. Where to get more details?
Visit the official Ontario government website or consult a licensed immigration professional.
