Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) Canada

Ontario-Immigrant-Nominee-Program-OINP

What is OINP?

Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) is one of the most comprehensive provincial immigration programs as it offers pathways to almost all kinds of people. This program looks into the market needs of its province and then responds to them by nominating people from the OINP portal. Initially, only provincial residence nomination is offered by this OPNP, and then depending upon the duration of stay and other requirements, they are offered Canadian permanent residence.

OINP reflects the multitude of opportunities available in this province. It is the center of Canadian banking, insurance, and commerce and therefore has a lot of employment opportunities for skilled workers.

Streams Offered by Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program

The following are the three broad immigration streams under the OINP
1. Human capital stream
2. Employer Job offer stream
3. Business stream

1- Human Capital Stream

This entry can be availed by those who have good education, skills, and experience. The occupations of this category is the reflection of the real-time need of the local economy and therefore leads to the prosperity of both the province and the immigrants. This immigration entry offers 5 entries

Human Capital Priorities

An active profile on the Express Entry program is essential to be considered for this category of immigration. This profile can be either as a Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) or Canadian Experience Class (CEC).

If one registers as FSW, then he must have

A high school diploma, English or French proficiency of CLB level 7, 1 year continuous NOC skill level work experience.

If one registers as CEC, then he must have

1 year NOC skill level work experience but not necessarily continuous, CLB level 7, No minimum education requirement.

French-speaking skilled worker

This entry also works like human capital priorities, hence requires having an Express Entry profile. No separate application is required for this program as all the candidates in the Express Entry pool are considered. A Notification of Interest (NOI) is then sent to the selected ones by the province.

Eligibility requirements:

CLB 7 in French & CLB 6 in English, Bachelors/ masters/Ph.D., 1 year NOC O, A, B skill work experience, Demonstrate proof of settlement funds

Skilled Trades

This entry requires an active Entry Express profile as a CEC candidate only. It also follows the Notification of Interest (NOI) criteria.

Eligibility requirements:

  1. CLB 7 in French & CLB 6 in English
  2.  Bachelors/Masters/ PhD
  3.  1 year NOC O, A, B skill work experience
  4.  Demonstrate proof of settlement funds

Other requirements:

  1. Must be residing in Ontario at the time of applying
  2. Must have a valid work permit while submitting the application
  3. CLB 5 in either English or French
  4. 1 year of work experience in an eligible skilled trade in Ontario specifically.
  5. Demonstrate proof of settlement funds

Note: Skilled trades are those occupations falling within NOC minor group 633 and NOC major groups 72, 73, or 82.

Masters Graduate Stream

Ontario immigration nominee program offers opportunities to students too.

Application procedure:
• No need for an Express Entry profile
• Submit an Expression of Interest (EIO) directly on the OINP portal.
• OINP’s points-based system is used to create merit.
• The highest-ranking candidates are then issued an invitation to apply in one of the OINP draws.

Eligibility requirements:
• Master’s degree from an authorized university in Ontario
• CLB 7 or higher ( English or French)
• Minimum 12-month stay in Ontario in the past two years
• Demonstrate proof of settlement funds
• Show intention to reside in Ontario

It follows the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program points-based system or Masters Graduate Ranking System (MGRS) to make the merit.

Ph.D. graduate Stream

Ontario immigration nominee program offers almost the same criteria for PhD students as that of Masters graduates.
They also need to submit an Expression of interest (EOI) on the OINP’s portal and wait for the invitation on the basis of OINP’s points-based system (same as MGRS).

The following are the profile-specific requirements:

  1. Must have lived in Ontario for 12 out of 24 months before applying and must be current residents at the time of submitting the application.
  2. Must have finished a doctoral degree from an authorized Ontario University within the last two years.
  3. Demonstrate proof of settlement funds
  4. Intention to reside in Ontario permanently

2- Employer Job Offer Stream

This is the second way through which you can immigrate to Ontario and work towards your personal and professional growth.

It is further divided into three branches Foreign worker stream, International student stream In-demand skills stream

Foreign worker stream

Applicants need to register themselves directly on OINP’s portal and then submit an Expression of Interest (EOI).

OINP’s points-based system will rank them and the highest-ranking candidates will receive an invitation to apply in OINP draws.

The candidates need to apply for nomination within 14 days after they receive this invitation.

If approved, OINP will inform them about their selection for provincial nomination.

At last, after receiving the provincial nomination, the candidates become eligible to submit a federal application for Canada Permanent Residence (PR).

Applicants requirements

RequirementDetails
JOB OFFERMust have a valid job offer from an Ontario employer,
which must be:
-Full-time position 
-Offer salary at or above the median wage level 
-NOC skill level O, A, B
Work experience-A Minimum 2 years of full-time within the previous 5 years  In the same NOC code
-Listed on their job offer
LicenseMust have a valid: 
-License 
-Certificate 
-Authorization
Intention to resideProve this residence


International Students Stream

Ontario Immigrants Nominee Program offers pathways not just to workers but to foreign students too. The application procedure is the same as for foreign workers (mentioned above).

The following are the other specific requirements.

The core thing that can make or break your chances of getting nominated for the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program is their points-based system also called the Foreign Worker Stream ranking system. Knowing more about this point system will help you gain clarity in your application. In fact, it will further enhance your chances of success as you will be able to exploit the categories according to their own needs.

Applicants Requirements

RequirementDetails
Job OfferMust have a valid job offer from an Ontario employer,
which must be:
-Full-time position
-Offer salary at or above the median wage level
-Position to be one of OINP’s in-demand occupations
Level of EducationMust have a completion of a Canadian educational credential within the previous 2 years.
Meet either of the two:
– A 2-year long full-time degree or diploma
– 1 year-long full-time degree or diploma + previously completed degree
LicenseMust have a valid:
-License
-Certificate
-Authorization
Intention to resideDemonstrate its proof

Employer requirements (same as foreign worker stream).

Employer Requirements
RequirementDetails
JOB OFFERMust offer a full-time and indeterminate position
BusinessTo be of decent standing and practices
1. Inside of Greater Toronto Area: at least $1 million CAD gross annual revenue + 5 full-time employees
2. Outside of the Greater Toronto Area: at least $500,000 CAD gross annual revenue + 3 full-time employees
RecruitmentDemonstrate that enough efforts were made to recruit a Canadian for the post on a priority basis


In-Demand Skills Stream

This entry of employer job category offer caters to the needs of those immigrants who are not highly skilled. It fulfills both aims, taking care of the local needs as well as making the dreams of not-so-skilled also come true.

The following are the specific requirements.

Employer requirements (same as foreign worker stream).

To get to know about the National Occupation Classification (NOC) Code of occupations eligible within this immigration stream.

Applicants Requirements
RequirementDetails
Job OfferMust have a valid job offer from an Ontario employer, which must be:
-Full-time position
-Offer salary at or above the median wage level
-Position to be one of OINP’s in-demand occupations
Language proficiencyCLB Level 4(English or French)
Level of EducationEqual to or above Canadian high school diploma
Work ExperienceMust have:
-Minimum 1 year full-time within the previous 3 years in the same NOC code as
– Listed on their job offer
LicenseMust have a valid:
-License
-Certificate
-Authorization
Settlement fundsDemonstrate meeting the settlement funds requirement
Intention to resideDemonstrate its proof

3- Business Stream

Ontario is a commercial hub and therefore one of the first choices for all Canadian immigrants. Along with skilled employees, workers, and students, OPNP also provides a way through to businessmen and entrepreneurs who want to create new business projects. If these ventures are successful then they are nominated for Canadian permanent residence.

This OINP stream offers three immigration paths:

Entrepreneur, Corporate (closed), Investor (closed)

Entrepreneur

This immigration stream has slightly strict criteria for the candidates as OINP wants the best entrepreneurs to have good management skills and high financial net worth.

Application procedure

If a candidate is meeting the eligibility requirements of the business stream, then he should register on OPNP’s portal and submit an EOI.

 A merit of candidates is prepared according to the Ontario Entrepreneur Ranking System and those scoring the highest ranks are invited to apply.

 Submit all the required information and documents within 90 days of receiving the invitation. Also, include a business plan and a review of personal net worth with it.

The Ontario entrepreneur stream application fee is $3,500 CAD. The applicant also needs to appear for a mandatory in-person interview at the OINP office.

When all the above steps are completed, the applicants are made to sign a Performance Agreement with the OINP and then it will issue them a work permit support letter.

Now, the applicants arrive in Canada and are given a maximum of 20 months to execute their business plan.

The execution report is submitted to OPNP which also acts as a nomination request. If accepted, then the applicants receive an official provincial nomination.

Applicants Requirements:

InvestmentDetails
Job OfferConditions:
1. Inside the Greater Toronto Area(GTA) – $600,000 CAD
2. Outside the GTA – $200,000 CAD
3. In the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) – $200,000 CAD
Net Worth1. Inside the GTA – $800,000
2. Outside the GTA – $400,000
3. In the ICT – $400,000
Work ExperienceCLB 4 as part of the official application to OINP
Business Plan-Provide an in-depth business proposal
-This must create at least 2 permanent full-time jobs for Canadians
Language proficiencyStay in Ontario for at least 70% of the time while establishing a business
ResidencyBusiness Partner
Business partnerOnly one permitted
Ontario Entrepreneur Ranking System:
SCORING SECTIONSPOINTS
Experience factors50
Investment factors100
Human capital factors20
TOTAL POINTS AVAILABLE170

This article answers all of these questions and goes a step further to give crystal clear information about this immigration program. The most often searched or Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about OINP are:

  • Which state is best for PNP in Canada?
  • How much CRS score is required for OINP?
  • What is the eligibility for Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program?
  • How to calculate PNP points in Ontario?
  • Which province does not need a job offer for a PNP?

What is OINP Draw?

OINP allows applicants to apply for provincial nomination based on merit. This merit is made according to the specific eligibility requirements of the various streams. Once the merit is made, the highest-scoring candidates are issued Invitations to Apply (ITAs) and Notifications of Interest (NOI).

This process of issuing invitations is called OINP draw. And Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program conducts this draw throughout the year, according to their local needs.

ITAs are issued under the drawing process for the various streams covered by Ontario’s Expression of Interest (EOI) system.

The following are such streams:

Human Capital Category

  • Masters Graduate
  • Ph.D. Graduate

Employer Job Offer Category

  • Foreign Worker Stream
  • International Student Stream
  • In-Demand Skills Stream

Business Category

  • Entrepreneur Stream

Click here to know about OINP draw 2022 recently conducted on March 22.

What is the OINP cut-off?

Out of all the immigration streams under the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program, the most high-profile and preferred is the Human capital stream. Before qualifying for the other eligibility requirements, OINP wants the applicants to clear two cut-offs.

The following are those two cut off:

  1. 67 points system – clearing this OINP cut-off allows them to make a profile on the Entry Express portal.
  2. 400 points in CRS (Comprehensive Ranking System) – once an applicant clears this cut-off, he is shared a Notification of Interest (NOI), which is an invitation to apply for provincial nomination.

Best Immigration Consultants for the OINP Program

Talent Connected Worldwide has rightfully earned the reputation of being one of the most authentic Canadian immigration service providers as it simplifies the complex application procedure and makes the client feel safe and relaxed.
Following are the solid 5 steps through which TCWW makes the Canadian immigration process a cakewalk:

Knowing the client

Getting to know the client, understand what their specific needs and plan are and then establish the first point of business i.e. asking for relevant documents and a refundable evaluation fee

Checking eligibility

The highly experienced and proficient team of TCWW goes through the documents, checks the eligibility takes out the PNP and CRS score, and keeps the client in contact all through this.

Discussing the options

Having a detailed discussion with a client now, letting him know all the available options and also offering the best advice. Going ahead with the contract if the client is fully satisfied.

Profile creation

After the remaining consultation fee is submitted, we create the online profile and keep looking for the best opportunities for the client.

Completing the formalities

When the client finally gets nominated, we apply for them in the next Express Entry Draw. Once they successfully get the go-ahead signal, we complete all the immigration formalities and ensure them their new home.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I qualify for the OINP?

Simply you have to meet the requirements of OINP after that you are ready to qualify for the OINP PNP

How can I apply for the OINP through Express Entry?

After creating an express entry profile, if you are invited to apply then you will receive a notification in your IRCC online account.

What is the OINP?

OINP is for people who have the skills and experience the Ontario economy needs to apply for permanent Residence.

How long does the OINP take?

OINP processing time is 60 to 90 days.

What are the Eligibility Criteria for OINP?

Educational Qualification 
Language proficiency skill
CRS score 
work experience
Sufficient funds
Legal status
Adequate investment

What is the Human Capital Priorities [HCP] stream of the OINP?

The human capital priorities stream is an active express entry program. This program can be either as a Federal Skilled Worker Or Canadian Experience Class. It requires 1 year of NOC TEER system work experience, CLB level, and No Minimum Education requirement.

I am an Express Entry candidate. How will a PNP nomination by the OINP program help me?

If you are an express entry candidate then you will receive a notification in your IRCC online account to Apply for PR in any stream of Ontario. The OINP program will help you to get Permanent Residence and Ontario reflects the multitude of opportunities available in this province. Ontario is a center of Canadian banking, insurance, and commerce and therefore has a lot of employment opportunities for skilled workers.

Is a connection to Ontario needed to be eligible for the OINP’s Human Capital Priorities [HCP] stream?

No, there is no connection needed to be eligible for the OINP’s Human Capital Priorities stream

Do I need a valid job offer to apply to the OINP’s HCP stream?

No, you do not need a valid job offer to apply to the OINP’s HCP stream.

What are OINP Tech Draws?

OINP Tech Draw is a new Ontario immigrant nominee program opportunity that comes under the Human Capital Priority Stream.

Are all tech occupations covered by the OINP Tech Draws?

Yes all the tech occupations covered by the OINP tech Draws
Examples: computer engineers, database analysts, web designers Data scientists, etc.

What is the main difference between the BC PNP Tech Pilot and the OINP Tech Pilot?

The main difference between the BC PNP Tech Pilot and the OINP Tech Pilot is:
1. The BC PNP targets 29 key tech occupations. 
2. The OINP Tech Draws, on the other hand, have a list of 6 eligible tech occupations.

What is the processing time for OINP applications?

The processing timing may vary from stream to stream. Application cases that require more information or clarification will take longer to process. 

How to get Canada PR via PNP?

The process of getting Canada PR via PNP is a 2 step process
1. First, the candidate’s nomination would have to be secured by the relevant provincial/territorial government
2. Lastly following your PNP nomination prC for their Canada PR

What is the Regional Immigration Pilot of the OINP?

The regional immigration pilot is a two-year pilot program that has the aim of distributing the benefits of economic immigration to the smaller communities in Ontario.

Which communities come under Ontario’s Regional Immigration Pilot?

Communities that come under the regional immigration pilot are:
1. Chatham-kent
2. Cities of Belleville and Quinte West
3. City of Cornwall

What are the immigration categories under the OINP?

The immigration categories under the OINP are:
1. Human capital Category
2. General category or Employer Job Offer Category
3. Business Category

What are the steps to apply for the OINP?

The steps to apply for the OINP:
1. Candidates must have to ensure that they Qualify
2. Candidate shave to apply for nomination 
3. Lastly, candidates have to apply for Permanent Residence

What is the OINP General Category?

OINP General Category allows Ontario employers to hire foreign workers for skilled positions that have been approved by NOC TEER system 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5.

How does one qualify as a skilled worker under the General Category?

Candidates need at least 2 years of paid and verifiable work experience in their intended occupation. Or candidates have a permanent, full-time employment offer from an employer in a designated Professional occupation.

Why immigrate to Ontario?

Because Ontario provides great job opportunities with better salaries, affordable cost of living in Ontario, and a High-Quality life for the people who are willing to apply.