On December 10, 2025, the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) broke a two-month silence by issuing a significant number of invitations to prospective immigrants. In a major move, a total of 1,133 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for provincial nomination were sent out across five separate draws.
This development marks the first OINP activity since October 9, bringing welcome news to candidates who have been eagerly awaiting updates. The invitations were extended to individuals registered in three key OINP streams: the Employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker Stream, the Employer Job Offer: International Student Stream, and the Employer Job Offer: In-Demand Skills stream.
What Does This Update Mean?
The resumption of OINP draws is a significant event for several reasons. Firstly, it signals that Ontario is actively processing applications and remains committed to welcoming newcomers to address its labour market needs. The two-month pause had created uncertainty, and this large multi-draw event provides reassurance to candidates in the pool.
Secondly, by targeting Employer Job Offer streams, Ontario is emphasizing the importance of securing local employment for successful immigration. This approach ensures that newcomers are well-positioned to integrate into the provincial economy and fill genuine job vacancies.
Who Is Affected by These Draws?
- Foreign Workers: Skilled workers with a job offer from an Ontario employer who were registered in the Foreign Worker stream were primary recipients.
- International Students: Graduates from eligible Canadian institutions who have secured a qualifying job offer in Ontario were also invited.
- Candidates in In-Demand Occupations: Individuals with job offers in specific in-demand fields like agriculture, construction, and personal support work were targeted.
- Ontario Employers: Businesses in Ontario that have hired foreign talent and are supporting their permanent residency applications will benefit from this progress, helping them retain valuable team members.
- Prospective Immigrants: Anyone considering the OINP as their pathway to Canadian permanent residence can view this as a positive sign of the program’s health and activity.
Program Requirements Explained
To be eligible for the streams included in this draw, candidates generally need to meet the following criteria:
- Employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker Stream: Requires a full-time, indeterminate job offer in a skilled occupation (NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3), along with relevant work experience and the intention to reside in Ontario.
- Employer Job Offer: International Student Stream: Requires a qualifying job offer in a skilled occupation and having completed an eligible program of study at a Canadian designated learning institution within the last two years.
What Can You Do Now?
Depending on your situation, here are some actionable next steps:
- If You Received an Invitation: Congratulations! You must now submit your complete application for provincial nomination within the deadline specified in your ITA. Begin gathering all necessary documents immediately, including your job offer, proof of status, and supporting forms.
- If You Are in the OINP Pool: If you did not receive an invitation, this is a good time to review and update your profile. Ensure all information is accurate and that you meet the criteria for your registered stream. Monitor future draws and any changes to program requirements.
- If You Are Planning to Apply: This news confirms the OINP is a viable and active pathway. Your primary focus should be on securing a valid job offer from an Ontario employer that meets the criteria of one of the Employer Job Offer streams. Researching eligible employers and networking are crucial steps.
These December draws demonstrate Ontario’s ongoing importance as a key destination for immigrants. For those with the right qualifications and a job offer, the path to permanent residence through the OINP remains a strong and promising option.