The Ontario Government has introduced significant updates regarding the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP). The changes are aimed at simplifying immigration pathways, better responding to labour market needs, increasing the integrity of the program, and streamlining the process of application. The first phase of the redesigned program came into effect on June 26, 2026, under amendments to Ontario Regulation 422/17 made through the Ontario Immigration Act, 2015.
A major update regarding the program is the replacement of the program’s existing eight immigration streams with a new Ontario Workforce Priority Stream. The new stream is intended to better align immigration selection with Ontario’s workforce shortages and evolving economic priorities. An Expression of Interest (EOI) system for the new stream is expected to open later in the summer. There will also be stronger compliance and oversight measures to improve the program integrity and ensure employers and applicants meet the updated requirements.
Applications that have been submitted before the implementation of the changes will continue to be processed under the eligibility criteria that were in effect at the time they were filed. More information regarding the second phase of the redesign of the program, which includes implementation of the new streams, is expected to be announced in the coming months.
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