Starting July 1, 2025, the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) will undergo major changes as part of new regulations introduced through the Working for Workers Seven Act. These updates give Ontario’s immigration authority greater control over the provincial nomination process and are designed to better align with current labour market needs.
Key Changes to the OINP
Here’s what applicants, employers, and representatives need to know:
1. Applications May Now Be Returned Before Nomination
Ontario now has the authority to return OINP applications before a provincial nomination is issued. If your application is returned, you will receive a notification and a full refund of the application fee.
Applications may be returned due to:
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Provincial nomination allocation limits
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Lack of alignment with Ontario’s urgent labour market needs
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Concerns around program integrity risk factors
The goal is to focus on high-quality applications that directly address Ontario’s labour priorities.
2. In-Person Interviews Now Required
In-person interviews will now be mandatory for both employers and foreign national applicants. However, accommodations will be made where needed to ensure accessibility.
3. Reduced Education Requirements for Early Childhood Educators
Applicants under the Human Capital Priorities (HCP) and French-Speaking Skilled Worker (FSSW) streams who list NOC 42202 – Early childhood educators and assistants as their primary occupation no longer need to meet the minimum education requirement—if they are members of the College of Early Childhood Educators. These individuals are now considered job-ready.
Typically, these streams require a Canadian bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD degree (or a recognized foreign equivalent).
4. Launch of the Employer Portal
Ontario has officially launched its new electronic Employer Portal, which is the final phase in transitioning the Employer: Job Offer streams to an employer-led process.
Because of this change, all existing Expressions of Interest (EOIs) have been withdrawn. To continue the process, foreign nationals must now work with their employer to submit a new EOI through the portal.
5. Flexible Immigration Stream Management
The OINP now has the authority to create or discontinue immigration nomination streams in response to the province’s evolving job market needs. This allows Ontario to be more agile and responsive to economic demands.
Why Is Ontario Making These Changes?
Ontario, like other provinces in Canada, has seen its provincial nomination allocation reduced by half due to federal decisions aimed at addressing housing and affordability challenges across the country.
As a result, the OINP has paused selection activities until June 3, 2025, and is now being more selective in issuing nominations.
Other provinces, such as British Columbia, have also shifted strategies. BC has paused most immigration pathways indefinitely, focusing its limited allocation on entrepreneurs and high-impact skilled workers.
Final Thoughts
These updates mark a significant shift in how Ontario manages its Provincial Nominee Program. If you’re planning to apply under the OINP, ensure your application is aligned with Ontario’s current labour market priorities and nomination criteria.
Stay informed and work closely with your employer or immigration representative to navigate the new system effectively.
