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Ontario Announces Higher OINP Nomination Allocation for 2026: What It Means for PR Aspirants

ICC Immigration Inc > Blogs > Announcement > Ontario Announces Higher OINP Nomination Allocation for 2026: What It Means for PR Aspirants

Ontario has officially revealed its Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) nomination allocation for 2026, and the numbers bring encouraging news for immigration candidates. The province has received 14,119 nomination slots from the federal government this year—marking a notable increase compared to 2025.

The update was published on February 6, 2026, through Ontario’s official immigration updates page. While the allocation is higher, Ontario has not yet released details about priority sectors, targeted occupations, or stream-wise distribution for 2026.

OINP 2026 Allocation vs Previous Years

The 14,119 nominations for 2026 represent about a 31% increase from the 10,750 nominations issued in 2025. This growth aligns with the federal government’s decision to significantly expand Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) permanent residence targets, which rose from 55,000 in 2025 to 91,500 in 2026.

With more PR spaces available under PNPs, provinces and territories—including Alberta, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, and Yukon—are also seeing increased allocations.

However, it’s important to note that despite this rise, Ontario’s 2026 numbers are still well below its 2024 peak allocation of 21,500 nominations. In fact, current levels reflect only about 67% recovery of 2024 volumes.

Key Takeaway:
The increase is positive, but competition for Ontario PNP nominations remains strong.

Recent Changes to the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program

Ontario has implemented several program adjustments over the past year, impacting eligibility, intake systems, and compliance measures.

1. Expanded Eligibility for Self-Employed Physicians

In January 2026, Ontario broadened eligibility under the Employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker Stream. Certain self-employed internationally trained physicians with:

  • Provisional certification from the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario

  • An OHIP billing number

can now qualify more easily for nomination.

Earlier changes in 2025 also allowed physicians to count self-employment experience—without a job offer—across three streams.

2. Suspension of Express Entry Skilled Trades Stream

In November 2025, Ontario suspended its Express Entry Skilled Trades Stream. The province cited systemic compliance and enforcement concerns and returned all pending applications.

This move signaled stricter program integrity measures moving forward.

3. Greater Authority to Return or Suspend Applications

New regulations introduced in July 2025 expanded Ontario’s authority to return applications before nomination issuance (with refunds).

By October, additional factors were added that could lead to suspension or return, including:

  • Provincial housing and healthcare capacity

  • Labour market demand shifts

  • Language proficiency

  • Education credentials

  • Employment status

This reflects Ontario’s intent to align immigration more closely with infrastructure and workforce needs.

4. Launch of Employer-Led Electronic Portal

Ontario transitioned its Employer Job Offer streams to an employer-led model in July 2025 through a new digital Employer Portal.

Applicants can no longer apply independently under these streams—employers must now initiate the process.

5. Eased Requirements for Early Childhood Educators

Education requirements were reduced for Early Childhood Educators and Assistants (NOC 42202) under:

  • Human Capital Priorities Stream

  • French-Speaking Skilled Worker Stream

A Canadian bachelor’s degree is no longer mandatory, expanding access for qualified candidates.

6. In-Person Interviews Introduced

Ontario may now require in-person interviews for employers and applicants to verify application authenticity and reduce fraud concerns.

Upcoming OINP Stream Consolidation

Ontario is also planning a major OINP program redesign.

Phase 1

Merge the three Employer Job Offer streams into one unified stream with multiple tracks.

Phase 2

Replace most existing pathways with three targeted immigration routes:

  • Healthcare workers

  • Entrepreneurs

  • Exceptional talent

These reforms, proposed in late 2025, are expected to roll out through 2026 and beyond, pending regulatory approval.

What This Means for Immigration Candidates

The increased allocation signals opportunity—but also evolving selection priorities.

Candidates should prepare for:

  • Targeted occupation draws

  • Stricter compliance checks

  • Employer-driven processes

  • Sector-focused pathways

Strong profiles aligned with Ontario’s labour shortages will have the highest success rates under the Ontario PNP 2026 system.

How ICC Immigration Can Help You Secure Your Future in Canada

Navigating the changing landscape of Canadian immigration programs can be complex—but the right guidance makes all the difference.

ICC Immigration is committed to helping you identify the most reliable pathways to long-term success in Canada while avoiding high-risk or uncertain routes.

Our Key Services

1. Permanent Residency Applications
We manage PR filings through Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), and other pathways—ensuring accuracy, compliance, and efficiency.

2. Work Permits and Study Permits
Whether you plan to work or study, we help secure temporary status that builds toward Permanent Residency in Canada.

3. Family Sponsorships
Reunite with loved ones through streamlined Canada family sponsorship programs with expert support at every stage.

4. Expert Legal Advice
Immigration laws evolve rapidly. Our professionals provide up-to-date legal guidance to maximize approval chances and maintain regulatory compliance.

Choose Stability Over Uncertainty

Rather than relying on unpredictable options, choosing structured immigration pathways offers:

  • Security

  • Legal stability

  • Clear PR timelines

ICC Immigration supports you from eligibility assessment to final approval—whether you’re already in Canada or planning your move.

Final Thoughts

Ontario’s OINP nomination increase for 2026 is a positive development for skilled workers, international graduates, and employers. While allocations are rising, program reforms, compliance measures, and sector targeting mean applicants must be more strategic than ever.

With evolving rules and competitive selection, professional guidance can significantly improve outcomes.

If your goal is Permanent Residency in Ontario or anywhere in Canada, now is the time to prepare your profile and align with upcoming immigration priorities.