Ontario has announced a bold, two-phase proposal to redesign the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP)—a move that could reshape how thousands of newcomers secure Permanent Residence (PR) in Canada. These changes aim to streamline the system, address labour shortages, and make the selection process more aligned with Ontario’s future economic priorities.
As the province seeks feedback from stakeholders, this proposal marks one of the most significant updates to the OINP in years. Whether you’re already working in Ontario or planning to immigrate, understanding these changes can help you plan your next steps strategically.
Phase 1: A New Employer Job Offer Stream
The first phase consolidates the OINP’s existing three employer-driven streams into a single, modernized Employer Job Offer Stream. This new structure creates two clear pathways: one for TEER 0–3 occupations and another for TEER 4–5 jobs, based on the National Occupation Classification (NOC) system.
1. TEER 0–3 Pathway: Skilled Worker Focus
Ontario aims to prioritize applicants already contributing to the province’s economy. To qualify under this pathway, candidates must meet new standards in three areas:
✔ Wage Requirement:
The job offer must meet Ontario’s median wage for that NOC. Recent graduates from approved Ontario institutions (within the past two years) may qualify at the low-wage level, offering flexibility for newcomers completing their studies.
✔ Work Experience Requirement:
Applicants must have either:
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6 months of Ontario experience in the same NOC with the same employer, or
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2 years of experience in that NOC within the last 5 years, or
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A valid license in a regulated occupation.
✔ Education Requirement:
A post-secondary credential is required unless the applicant has 6 months of Ontario work experience with the job-offer employer.
2. TEER 4–5 Track: Supporting Essential Workers
This track focuses on industries facing persistent labour shortages—such as accommodations, retail, manufacturing, and service sectors.
Key features include:
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Eligibility for all TEER 4–5 NOCs
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Targeted draws based on labour market demands
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Minimum language requirements (CLB to be announced)
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At least 9 months of experience with the same Ontario employer
Ontario is also exploring flexibility for construction workers, such as allowing union support instead of permanent job offers.
Phase 2: Three Completely New OINP Streams
The second phase involves a much bigger transformation. Ontario plans to eliminate its current streams entirely and replace them with three new pathways designed for the future labour market.
1. Priority Healthcare Stream
Healthcare remains Ontario’s top priority. Under this new stream:
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No job offer will be required, as long as the applicant is registered in a regulated healthcare profession.
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Recent graduates who are close to completing their licensing may also qualify.
This pathway aims to fast-track professionals such as nurses, physicians, pharmacists, and other regulated healthcare workers.
2. Entrepreneur Stream
Ontario is reviving its business immigration pathway with a redesigned Entrepreneur Stream.
It will target newcomers who:
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Start and actively operate a new business, or
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Purchase and manage an existing Ontario business
This focus on entrepreneurship supports regional growth and encourages investment in Ontario’s economy.
3. Exceptional Talent Stream
This forward-looking stream will evaluate individuals who demonstrate extraordinary achievements that fall outside traditional job-offer pathways.
Eligible applicants may include leaders in:
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Academia and scientific research
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Technology and innovation
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Arts, film, media, and creative sectors
Rather than using a points-based system, Ontario will assess applicants based on their impact, achievements, and potential value to the province.
Why Ontario Is Making These Changes
Ontario’s labour market is evolving rapidly. By restructuring the OINP, the province hopes to:
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Better respond to labour shortages
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Attract high-impact talent
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Support frontline sectors facing staffing challenges
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Modernize pathways for global professionals and entrepreneurs
However, one major question remains: How will Ontario handle in-progress applications once phase two is launched? That detail has not been clarified yet.
How ICC Immigration Can Help You Navigate These New PR Pathways
As Ontario prepares for a major immigration transformation, having expert guidance is more important than ever. ICC Immigration is committed to helping applicants understand these changes and choose the right path toward Permanent Residency in Canada.
Our team ensures your application aligns with the new Ontario immigration priorities, whether you’re applying through Express Entry, PNPs, or employer-driven pathways.
Our Services to Support Your Canadian Immigration Journey
✔ Permanent Residency Applications
We handle Express Entry, PNPs, and other PR programs, ensuring your application meets the latest requirements and is submitted with precision.
✔ Work Permits & Study Permits
Temporary pathways often lead to PR. We help you secure a work permit or study permit to build Canadian experience and improve your eligibility.
✔ Family Sponsorship
If you have loved ones in Canada, we assist with sponsorship applications to help you reunite with your family.
✔ Legal & Regulatory Immigration Advice
Canada’s immigration rules can change rapidly—like Ontario’s new proposal. We provide legal clarity, accurate documentation guidance, and strong case-building strategies.
Choosing asylum or unsafe pathways can put your future at risk. Instead, ICC Immigration helps you build a stable, secure, and long-term plan for becoming a Permanent Resident in Canada.
Whether you’re already in the country or planning to immigrate, our licensed consultants are here to provide end-to-end support, ensuring your journey is smooth, compliant, and successful.