5 Things to Know About the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP)

Want to immigrate to Canada and settle in Ontario? According to Statistics Canada, the province's population has gone from 13,448,494 in 2016 to 14,223,942 in 2021? Since Canada has a low birth rate, the growth may have occurred mainly due to immigration.

Ontario is best known for being Canada's main economic hub and as Canada's wealthiest province. It holds a significant share of the country's natural resources and the most mature and diversified industrial economy. So, if you are planning your Ontario immigration journey, here are 5 things to know about the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP).

The Minimum CRS Score for OINP Can Vary From Draw to Draw

Navigating the OINP begins with understanding the ever-changing Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores. Unlike a static threshold, the minimum CRS score fluctuates with each draw, offering hopefuls a dynamic landscape.

To apply for the Human Capital Priorities Stream, which falls under the OINP, you must first clear the 67-point system. Once you have, you're eligible to create an Express Entry profile and submit that into the Express Pool along with the profiles of other candidates.

Generally, the minimum requirement for OINP is 400 CRS points. Yet over the last year, this minimum score has been as low as 350 and as high as 489.

Staying updated on these fluctuations is crucial, ensuring aspiring immigrants can strategize and align their profiles with the current draw requirements.

What is the Human Capital Priorities Stream of Ontario?

The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program's Human Capital Priorities Stream is known as the center of the OINP because of its success in bringing thousands of skilled immigrant workers to Ontario. This stream requires an active Express Entry profile to be considered. If successful, you'll receive an additional 600 CRS points and an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for Canadian permanent residency.

Certain Streams Don't Require a Job Offer

Traditionally, securing a job offer has been a pivotal requirement for many immigration pathways. However, the OINP distinguishes itself by offering streams that don't mandate a job offer. If you want to apply for Ontario's PNP as a skilled worker without a job offer, then you can do so via Ontario's Express Entry - Human Capital Priorities Stream, as mentioned above.

This unique feature opens avenues for individuals without prior employment commitments, broadening the scope for a diverse range of applicants.

So What Are the OINP Express Entry-Human Capital Priority Stream Requirements?

To be eligible for the OINP Express Entry-Human Capital Priority Stream, you will need to:

• Have an active Express Entry profile;
• Meet the eligibility requirements for one of the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) or Canadian Experience Class (CEC);
• Meet the stream’s work experience requirements;
• Have a Canadian Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. degree or an equivalent foreign education credential;
• Demonstrate a language proficiency level of 7 or higher on the Canadian Language Benchmark;
• Intend to live permanently in Ontario; and
• Have sufficient funds to cover settlement costs in Ontario.

Processing Times Are Faster Than Many Other Pathways

Time is of the essence, especially in immigration. One distinctive advantage of the OINP is its expedited processing times compared to alternative pathways. Aspiring immigrants often find the efficiency of the OINP appealing, enabling them to embark on their Canadian journey with minimal delays.

There Are Many In-demand Occupations Eligible For the OINP

The OINP caters to the evolving needs of the Canadian labor market by including a plethora of in-demand occupations. This strategic alignment ensures that individuals with skills and expertise in sought-after fields find ample opportunities to work in Canada within the program. Identifying these occupations can significantly enhance your chances of a successful application.

Learn more about in-demand jobs in Canada.

International Students Can Immigrate to Ontario Through the OINP

If you're planning your Ontario immigration journey while you are studying, you should know that the International Student stream under the Employer Job Offer program offers a pathway for international students holding a job offer in a skilled occupation to seek Canadian permanent residency.

Your job offer should fall within the skilled occupations categorized at TEER (Training, Education, Experience, and Responsibilities) levels 0, 1, 2, or 3 of the National Occupational Classification (NOC).

The initial step involves registering in the OINP's Expression of Interest System, where you await an invitation to apply. Only after receiving the invitation can you submit your online application, seeking nomination by the Ontario government for permanent residence.