ONTARIO Immigration Programs

The Ontario Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) was designed to attract and nominate individuals who have the skills and experience needed to contribute to Ontario's economy and communities. 

The Ontario PNP, known as the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP), offers various streams through which individuals can apply for nomination and eventually obtain permanent residency in Ontario, Canada. Each stream has its own set of eligibility criteria and requirements. Below is an overview of the major streams under the OINP:

Human Capital Category:

• Ontario Express Entry Stream: This stream is aligned with the federal Express Entry system. Eligible candidates with an active profile in Express Entry may receive a Notification of Interest (NOI) from the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) and can apply for provincial nomination. It has three sub-categories:
  • French-Speaking Skilled Worker Stream: For French-speaking candidates with strong English language skills and work experience in specific  National Occupational Classifications (NOCs) 
  • Human Capital Priorities: For candidates with work experience in specific NOC levels (under the NOC 2021 system).
  • Skilled Trades Stream: For candidates with work experience in an eligible skilled trade occupation listed under the NOC 2021 system

Masters or PhD Category:

Operating through the OINP’s Expression of Interest System, applicants with a Masters or PhD degree from an Ontario university can benefit from the following streams:

• Masters Graduate Stream: This stream is for individuals who have completed a master's degree from an eligible Ontario university and intend to settle in the province.
• Ph.D. Graduate Stream: This stream is for individuals who have completed a Ph.D. degree from an eligible Ontario university and intend to settle in the province.

Employer Job Offer Category:

• Foreign Worker Stream: This stream is for individuals with a job offer from an Ontario employer. The job offer must be approved by the OINP and meet certain requirements.
• International Student Stream: This stream is for recent graduates with a job offer from an Ontario employer.Graduates from an eligible Ontario college or university can apply under this stream.
• In-Demand Skills Stream. This stream is for foreign workers who posses skills in an in-demand occupation. Applicants must have a job offer in Ontario.

Business Category:

• Entrepreneur Stream: This stream is for individuals who want to start or buy an existing business in Ontario. Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria related to net worth, investment amount, business experience, and job creation.

Benefits:

1. Increased CRS Score: A provincial nomination through the Ontario PNP awards you 600 additional points in the CRS, virtually guaranteeing an invitation to apply for permanent residency in subsequent Express Entry draws.
2. Priority Processing: Provincial nominees receive priority processing for their permanent residency applications, which means faster processing times compared to the regular immigration streams.
3. Regional-Specific Criteria: The Ontario PNP is designed to address the specific labor market needs of the province, ensuring that nominated individuals possess the skills and experience relevant to Ontario's industries and communities.
4. Settlement Assistance: The OINP offers resources and information to help nominated individuals settle and integrate into Ontario, including access to employment services, language training, and educational opportunities.
5. Opportunities for International Graduates: The Ontario PNP provides streams dedicated to international graduates of Canadian institutions, allowing them to establish their careers and contribute to the province's workforce.

It is important to note that the requirements and benefits of the Ontario PNP may change over time as per the policies and priorities of the Ontario government. It is advisable to consult the official website of the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program for the most up-to-date and accurate information.

Visa Business Plans Canada provides comprehensive business concept and business plans for the  OINP Entrepreneur Stream.