This article has been reviewed and approved by Sanchita Chugh a certified RCIC (Registered Canadian Immigration Consultant).
The Ontario PNP Program stands as a significant pathway for individuals aspiring to attain permanent residence in Canada. As one of Canada’s most populous provinces, Ontario has developed its PNP to meet the specific economic and demographic needs unique to the region. In this article, we’ll delve into the key aspects of the Ontario PNP, exploring its objectives, eligibility criteria, and the application process.
The primary goal of the Ontario PNP is to attract and retain skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and individuals with specific expertise that align with the province’s economic priorities. By doing so, Ontario aims to address labor market gaps and contribute to its economic growth. The program seeks to diversify the province’s workforce and support industries that are vital to Ontario’s prosperity.
Table of Contents
- Key Streams of the Ontario PNP
- Eligibility Criteria of Ontario PNP Program (OINP)
- Documents Needed for the Ontario PNP Visa
- Application Process of Ontario PNP Program (OINP)
- Cost of Applying to the Ontario PNP
- What is the Processing Time for the Ontario PNP?
- Ontario PNP Program (OINP) FAQs
Key Streams of the Ontario PNP
The Ontario PNP Program is a vital immigration pathway designed to address the specific economic and demographic needs of the province. Within the Ontario PNP, there are several distinct streams, each tailored to cater to different categories of immigrants. In this section, we will delve into the key streams of the Ontario PNP, shedding light on the unique characteristics and eligibility requirements of each.
Expression of Interest (EOI)
The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) employs an Expression of Interest (EOI) system to administer applications across several streams:
If you have a job offer in Ontario
1. Stream for Foreign Worker with an Employer Job Offer- Apply to the Employer Job Offer Stream for Skilled Foreign Workers if you’re a proficient foreign worker with a job opportunity in Ontario.
2. Stream for International Students with an Employer Job Offer- Apply to the Employer Job Offer Stream for International Students if you’re a recent graduate holding a job offer in Ontario.
3. Stream for In-Demand Skills with an Employer Job Offer- Apply to the Employer Job Offer Stream for In-Demand Skills if you’re a foreign worker specializing in an in-demand occupation and possess a job offer in Ontario.
If you have a Masters or PhD degree from an Ontario university
1. Master’s Graduate Stream- Apply to the Master’s Graduate Stream if you hold a master’s degree from an Ontario university.
2. PhD Graduate Stream- Apply to the PhD Graduate Stream if you possess a PhD degree from an Ontario university.
If you are a foreign entrepreneur
1. Entrepreneur Stream- As a foreign entrepreneur with an innovative business concept, seize the chance to apply to the Entrepreneur Stream. This stream offers you the opportunity to immigrate to Ontario, enabling you to launch a new business or expand an existing one within the province.
Express Entry
The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) aligns with the federal Express Entry System to process applications across the following streams:
1. Human Capital Priorities Stream: Apply to the Human Capital Priorities Stream if you possess the necessary skilled work experience, education, and language proficiency.
2. Skilled Trades Stream: Apply to the Skilled Trades Stream if you’re a foreign worker with relevant Ontario work experience in an eligible skilled trade.
3. French-Speaking Skilled Worker Stream: Apply to the French-Speaking Skilled Worker Stream if you’re a French-speaking foreign worker with proficient English language skills.
To be eligible for these streams, you must have received an invitation from the OINP and maintain an updated profile within the federal Express Entry system, including your latest work experience, language proficiency tests, and educational qualifications.
Applying to these streams is by invitation only. Creating a profile within the Express Entry System doesn’t imply application to the OINP or for permanent residency.
Eligibility Criteria of Ontario PNP Program (OINP)
The Ontario PNP Program serves as a gateway to permanent residence in Canada for individuals with the skills and qualifications that align with the province’s economic needs. Understanding the eligibility criteria for the Ontario PNP is crucial for prospective applicants seeking to embark on this immigration journey.
1. Expression of Interest
The eligibility requirements of the Ontario Expression of Interest stream are:
| Stream | Requirements | |
| Foreign Entrepreneur Stream | Business Experience | Minimum of 24 months of full-time business experience within the last 60 months |
| Experience as a business owner (actively involved and owning at least one-third of the business) or as a senior manager (with significant decision-making responsibilities and day-to-day operational management) | ||
| Net Worth | Minimum personal net worth, lawfully obtained and verifiable | |
| – Greater Toronto Area: $800,000 CAD | ||
| – Outside Greater Toronto Area: $400,000 CAD | ||
| Note: Excludes spouse’s net worth | ||
| Personal Investment & Equity | Minimum personal investment based on business location | |
| – Greater Toronto Area: $600,000 CAD | ||
| – Outside Greater Toronto Area: $200,000 CAD | ||
| Information Technology Sector: $200,000 CAD (irrespective of location) | ||
| Control at least one-third of the business equity | ||
| Active Involvement | Ongoing active involvement in business management | |
| Capital Investment Purpose | Primary investment purpose: Profit-making, not interest, dividends, or capital gains | |
| Job Creation | Greater Toronto Area: Create at least 2 permanent full-time jobs | |
| Outside GTA or in IT sector: Create at least 1 permanent full-time job | ||
| Jobs paid at median wage, continuous for 10 months, and ongoing at final report | ||
| Additional Requirements for Purchasing Existing Business | – At least one business-related visit within 12 months | |
| – Business continuity for previous 60 months by the same owner(s) | ||
| – Complete transfer of ownership to applicant/business partner | ||
| – Previous owner(s) cannot retain shares | ||
| – Allocate 10% of personal investment for business improvements in Ontario | ||
| – Retain all permanent full-time jobs pre-transfer | ||
| – Business should not have been previously owned by former OINP business nominees | ||
| PhD Graduate stream | Must receive an invitation to apply and apply within the specified deadline | Demonstrate qualifications claimed in the Expression of Interest |
| Education | Completion of requirements for a PhD degree | |
| Degree from an eligible Ontario university | ||
| At least two years of PhD studies completed while legally residing and studying in Ontario | ||
| Ineligibility if recipient of a bursary, grant, or scholarship requiring return to home country post-degree | ||
| Residency in Ontario | Legally resided in Ontario for at least one year within the past two years before applying | |
| Cumulative residency totaling 12 months within the past two years | ||
| Settlement Funds | Sufficient funds to support self and dependents | |
| Can be demonstrated through: Bank statements or other investment accountsAnnual earnings from ongoing employment in OntarioJob offer in Ontario | ||
| Amount varies based on family size | ||
| Ability to combine various financial resources to meet the settlement fund requirement | ||
| Possible request for additional documentation for large one-time deposits | ||
| Intention to Live in Ontario | Intention to live and work in Ontario after obtaining permanent residence | |
| Demonstrated through ties to Ontario, such as employment, job offers, studies, volunteer work, property ownership, visits, professional networks, family ties, etc. | ||
| Legal Status in Canada (if applicable) | Must have legal status at the time of application submission and maintain it until nomination | |
| ‘Implied status’ acceptable – awaiting decision on renewal application | ||
| Application Period | Submit application within two years of completing PhD requirements | |
| Application date based on the degree date or official university letter indicating future degree granting date | ||
| Masters Graduate stream | Expression of Interest & Invitation to Apply | Must receive an invitation to apply and apply within the specified deadline |
| Demonstrate qualifications claimed in the Expression of Interest | ||
| Education | Requirements to obtain a master’s degree | |
| – Minimum one academic year of full-time study (at least 15 hours of instruction per week) | ||
| – Degree from an eligible Ontario university | ||
| Exception: Enrolment allowed if for regulated occupation licensure or combined with full-time work in Ontario | ||
| Ineligibility if recipient of bursary, grant, or scholarship requiring return to home country post-degree | ||
| Language | Proficiency in English or French at a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 7 or higher | |
| Approved language test within two years before application submission | ||
| – For English: IELTS (General Training), CELPIP (General) | ||
| – For French: TEF, TCF | ||
| Residency in Ontario | Legal residency in Ontario for at least one year in the past two years before applying | |
| Cumulative residency totaling 12 months within the past two years | ||
| Settlement Funds | Sufficient funds to support self and dependents | |
| Variety of resources: bank statements, investments, annual earnings from employment in Ontario, job offers | ||
| Amount varies based on family size; combining resources allowed | ||
| Possible additional documentation for large one-time deposits | ||
| Intention to Live in Ontario | Intention to live in Ontario post-permanent residence | |
| Demonstrated through ties to Ontario: work, job applications, studies, volunteering, property ownership, visits, professional networks, family, personal relationships | ||
| Residency at Application Time | Must be living in Ontario with legal status or living outside Canada | |
| Ineligibility if residing in a Canadian province or territory other than Ontario | ||
| Legal Status in Canada (if applicable) | Legal status at application time and until nomination | |
| Acceptance under ‘implied status’ when renewal application pending | ||
| Application Period | Application within two years of completing master’s degree requirements | |
| Application date based on degree date or official university letter indicating future degree granting date | ||
| In-Demand Skills stream | Expression of Interest & Invitation to Apply | Must receive an invitation to apply and apply within the specified deadline |
| Demonstrate qualifications claimed in the Expression of Interest | ||
| Work Experience | At least 9 months of cumulative paid full-time work experience in the same in-demand occupation as the job offer | |
| Gained within three years prior to application while legally living and working in Ontario | ||
| Definitions for full-time and part-time equivalent work experience | ||
| Self-employment requires independently verifiable documentation | ||
| Valid Licence or Authorization | Required for occupations necessitating licensing in Ontario | |
| Verify licensing details on Ontario’s Jobs and Employment website or Skilled Trades Ontario website | ||
| Language | Proficiency in English or French at a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 4 or higher | |
| Approved language test within two years before application submission | ||
| – For English: IELTS (General Training), CELPIP (General) | ||
| – For French: TEF, TCF | ||
| Education | Canadian high school diploma or equivalent with an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) if completed outside Canada | |
| ECA report from designated organizations: Comparative Education Service, International Credential Assessment Service of Canada, etc. | ||
| Authorization for OINP access to ECA results required | ||
| Intention to Live in Ontario | Intention to reside in Ontario post-permanent residence demonstrated through various ties and engagements | |
| Legal Status in Canada | Legal status at application and until nomination required | |
| ‘Implied status’ acceptable for those renewing temporary status document applications | ||
| International Student stream | Expression of Interest & Invitation to Apply | Must receive an invitation to apply and apply within the specified deadline |
| Demonstrate qualifications claimed in the Expression of Interest | ||
| Education | Eligible Canadian institution credential: | |
| – Degree/diploma requiring at least two years of full-time study or | ||
| – Degree, diploma, or certificate requiring at least one year of full-time study with a completed degree as an admission requirement | ||
| Completion of over half of studies while living and studying in Canada | ||
| Note: Determination of full-time study is defined by the college or university | ||
| Responsibility lies with applicants to ensure their specific program meets requirements | ||
| Valid Licence or Authorization | Required for occupations necessitating licensing in Ontario | |
| Verify licensing details on Ontario’s Jobs and Employment website or Skilled Trades Ontario website | ||
| Intention to Live in Ontario | Intention to reside in Ontario post-permanent residence demonstrated through various ties and engagements | |
| Legal Status in Canada | Legal status at application and until nomination required | |
| ‘Implied status’ acceptable for those renewing temporary status document applications | ||
| Application Period | Application within two years of obtaining the degree, diploma, or certificate | |
| Application date based on credential date or official letter indicating future credential granting date | ||
| Foreign Worker stream | Expression of Interest & Invitation to Apply | Invitation receipt and adherence to application deadline |
| Demonstrating qualifications declared in the Expression of Interest | ||
| Work Experience or Licence/Authorization | Varied requirements based on the occupation of the job offer: | |
| – If job requires a mandatory licence/authorization in Ontario: <br> Valid licence or authorization necessary at application | ||
| – If job doesn’t require licence/authorization: <br> 2 years cumulative paid full-time work experience in the same occupation as the NOC code of the job offer | ||
| Work gained within the past 5 years; if in Canada, legally living and working | ||
| – Full-time work: 30+ hours/week totaling 3,120 hours over 2 years | ||
| – Part-time equivalent: <br> 15+ hours/week for 4 years or multiple jobs totaling 3,120 hours over 2 years | ||
| Self-employment periods need verifiable employment documentation | ||
| Intention to Live in Ontario | Demonstrating the intention to live in Ontario post-permanent residence | |
| Determined by various ties and engagements in Ontario | ||
| Legal Status in Canada | Requirement of legal status at the time of application and maintenance until nomination | |
| ‘Implied status’ considered if application for status extension submitted before expiry date | ||
2. Express Entry
The eligibility requirements of the Ontario Express Entry stream are:
| Immigration Streams | Eligibility Requirements |
Skilled Trades Stream | Have a valid Express Entry profileMust be eligible for CEC (Canadian Experience Class)Intent to live in the provinceEnough settlement fundsCLB 5 at least (French or English)Presently living in Ontario.Have a valid work permitWork experience of at least 12 months: |
Human Capital Priorities Stream | Have a valid Express Entry profileMust be eligible for CEC (Canadian Experience Class) or FSWC (Federal Skilled Worker Class)Must have post-secondary educationCLB 7 or more (in French or English)Intent to live in the provinceEnough settlement fundsWork experience:For CEC: 1 year of work experience in the last 3 yearsFor FSWC: 1 year of work experience in the last 5 years |
French-Speaking Skilled Worker Stream | Have a valid Express Entry profileMust be eligible for CEC (Canadian Experience Class) or FSWC (Federal Skilled Worker Class)Must have post-secondary educationIntent to live in the provinceEnough settlement fundsCLB 7 in French(or)CLB 6 in EnglishWork Experience:For CEC: 1 year of work experience in the last 3 yearsFor FSWC: 1 year of work experience in the last 5 years |
The eligibility criteria for the Ontario PNP are multifaceted, reflecting the diverse needs of the province’s labor market and economy. Prospective applicants must meticulously review the specific requirements of the stream they intend to apply to, ensuring that they meet or can fulfill each criterion.
Staying informed about any updates or changes to the eligibility criteria is crucial, as immigration policies can evolve. By aligning their qualifications with the program’s requirements, individuals can enhance their chances of a successful nomination and subsequent permanent residence in Ontario.
Documents Needed for the Ontario PNP Visa
The documents needed for applying to the Ontario PNP differ depending on the immigration program you apply for. But, some basic documents are:
- Identity proof
- Valid passport
- Proof of funds
- Settlement plan
- Investment funds (if needed)
- Job offer (if needed)
- Language skill results
- Medical examination reports
- Police Clearance certificate
- ECA (Educational Credential Assessment)
- Proof of previous work experience (if needed)
- Dependent Children Information Certificate (in case your dependent child is immigrating too)
- Marriage certificate (in case your spouse is accompanying you)
Application Process of Ontario PNP Program (OINP)
There are different pathways to applying for the Ontario PNP Program. These are:
Pathway 1- Through EOI or Direct Submission
1. Explore Eligibility Criteria: Begin by reviewing the eligibility criteria for various immigration programs.
2. Select Immigration Stream: Choose the immigration stream that best aligns with your qualifications and objectives.
3. EOI Submission: You can send an Expression of Interest (EOI) to the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) or directly submit.
4. Assessment Process (For EOI Submissions): It consists of the following steps:
- Your application enters a pool.
- OINP assesses your profile.
- Highest-ranking candidates receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) via email.
5. Online Application: Upon receiving an ITA, applicants have 90 days to complete the online application.
6. Document Submission: Submit the required documents as part of the application process.
7. In-person Interview: Attend an in-person interview with OINP officials.
8. Performance Agreement: After the interview, sign the Performance Agreement.
9. Letter of Confirmation: The province of Ontario issues a Letter of Confirmation.
10. Temporary Work Permit: Upon sending the letter to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), you receive a temporary work permit.
11. Provincial Nomination Application: If you meet the terms, apply for a provincial nomination.
12. Nomination Confirmation: Await the provincial nomination confirmation.
13. OINP Certificate of Nomination: If successful, receive the OINP Certificate of Nomination.
14. Permanent Residence Application: Apply for permanent residence within six months.
15. Assessment Process (For direct submissions): Upon applying directly, receive an email confirmation.
16. Criteria Evaluation: If you meet the criteria, obtain:
- Provincial nomination certificate
- Work permit support letter
- Nomination approval letter
17. Permanent Residence Application: Apply for permanent residence within six months.
Pathway 2: Through Express Entry
1. Explore Eligibility Criteria: Begin by reviewing the eligibility criteria for the Express Entry system.
2. Create MyCIC Profile: Create a profile on the MyCIC account within the Express Entry system.
3. Note Validation Code and Profile Number: Take note of the job seeker validation code and the Express Entry profile number.
4. Qualify for OINP Express Entry Programs: To be eligible for OINP Express Entry programs, ensure qualification under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) or the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP).
5. Enter Express Entry Pool: Your application enters the Express Entry pool.
6. Province Searches for Candidates: The province searches for potential candidates in the Express Entry pool.
7. Notification of Interest (NOI): If you meet the criteria, you will receive a Notification of Interest (NOI).
8. Application Submission to OINP: Submit your application to the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) within 45 days.
9. Email Confirmation: After submission, receive an email confirmation.
10. Selection Results: If selected, you will receive:
– Nomination certificate
– Work permit support letter
– Nomination approval letter
11. Provincial Nomination Integration: Ontario PNP integrates provincial nomination details into the Express Entry system.
12. Accept Provincial Nomination: Accept the provincial nomination within 30 days.
13. CRS Score Increase: Upon acceptance, your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score will increase by 600 points.
14. Invitation to Apply (ITA): Receive the Invitation to Apply (ITA) during the Express Entry draw.
15. Permanent Residency Application: Submit the permanent residency application within 60 days.
By following these steps diligently, candidates can navigate the Express Entry process facilitated by the Ontario PNP, maximizing their chances of successful immigration and permanent residency in Canada.
Cost of Applying to the Ontario PNP
The Ontario PNP cost depends on the immigration program. The detailed fee structure is given in the table below:
| Immigration Program | Immigration Sub-Programs | Application Fees |
Ontario’s Express Entry | Skilled Trades Stream | $ 1500 |
| French-Speaking Skilled Worker Stream | $ 1500 | |
| Human Capital Priorities Stream | $ 1500 | |
| Expression of Interest | Masters/PhD Stream | $ 1500 |
| Entrepreneur Stream | $ 3500$ 3500 (business partner) | |
| International Student Stream | $ 1500 | |
| In-Demand Skills stream | $ 1500 | |
Foreign Worker Stream | $ 2000 (If the employment offer is within the Greater Toronto Area)$ 1500 (If the employment offer is outside the Greater Toronto Area |
What is the Processing Time for the Ontario PNP?
The application processing time for the Ontario PNP differs. It varies depending on the immigration streams.
The detailed processing time is given in this table:
| Immigration Program | Processing Time (Approximately) |
| Skilled Trades Stream | 30- 60 days |
| French-Speaking Skilled Worker Stream | 30- 60 days |
| Human Capital Priorities Stream | 60 – 90 days |
| Masters/PhD Graduate stream | 30- 60 days |
| In-Demand Skills stream | 90 – 120 days |
| Entrepreneur stream | Assessment of EOI: Within 30 daysApplication: Varies |
| International Student stream | 90 – 120 days |
| Foreign Worker stream | 90 – 120 days |
The Ontario Provincial Nominee Program is a dynamic and essential component of Canada’s immigration system. By offering various streams catering to skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and businesses, Ontario provides a clear pathway to permanent residence for individuals contributing to the province’s economic growth and development.
As immigration policies are subject to change, prospective applicants are advised to stay updated with the latest information from official sources to navigate the Ontario PNP successfully.
Ontario PNP Program (OINP) FAQs
1. What are the major immigration programs under the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program?
A. The major immigration programs under the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program are Expression of Interest & Express Entry.
2. What are the various streams under the Express Entry category?
A. The various streams under the Express Entry category are Human Capital Priorities stream, Skilled Trades stream & French-Speaking Skilled Worker stream
3. What is the minimum CRS score required for Ontario PNP?
A. The minimum CRS score required for Ontario PNP is 358.
Also read-
- A Comprehensive Guide on Different Immigration Programs for Canada
- Spouse Open Work Permit Canada: Work Alongside Your Spouse
- PR Canada: Benefits, Eligibility, Application Steps & More
- Self-Employed Program: A Step-by-Step Guide to Permanent Residency
- Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot: A Pathway to Canadian Residency
