OINP Now Returning Nomination Applications for PR in Canada
Canada’s job market is becoming even more accessible, especially for international applicants looking to settle here. The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) recently implemented significant changes to its processes, effective July 1, 2025, making it particularly interesting for those considering visa sponsorship or permanent residency (PR) in Canada.
What’s New with the OINP?
Under the new regulations from Ontario’s Ministry of Labour, the OINP now has enhanced control over its Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). Here are some key updates:
- Application Returns: The OINP can return applications before a provincial nomination is issued. If this happens, applicants will receive a refund of their application fee.
- In-Person Interviews: Both employers and foreign applicants may now be required to participate in in-person interviews, with accommodations available if necessary.
- Education Requirements Relaxed: Early childhood educators applying through the Human Capital Priorities (HCP) and French-Speaking Skilled Worker (FSSW) streams may find reduced education requirements if they’re registered with the College of Early Childhood Educators.
- New Employer Portal: A new electronic Employer Portal has been launched, allowing employers to take the lead in the application process for job offers.
- Adaptive Nomination Streams: The OINP can now add or remove immigration nomination streams based on the province’s job market needs, making it more adaptable to changes.
Due to the launch of the Employer Portal, all existing Expression of Interest (EOI) submissions have been withdrawn. This means that if you’re an international worker, you’ll need to work closely with your employer to submit a new EOI.
Why the Changes?
The OINP has adapted its approach largely because of a reduction in its provincial nomination allocation, which has been halved by the federal government. This means Ontario is focusing on more selective processes to choose immigration candidates who can best meet the province’s labour market needs.
For example, applications will now be assessed based on:
- The available nomination allocation.
- Alignment with Ontario’s pressing labour market demands.
- Integrity risk factors of the program.
This shift is part of a broader trend in Canada where all PNPs, including those in provinces like British Columbia, are streamlining their selection processes to prioritise high-quality applications from those who can contribute significantly to the economy.
If you’re looking to relocate to Canada and explore work permits or PR options, these updates are crucial. Staying informed about such changes can significantly impact your application’s success in a competitive job market.
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