FAQ: Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP)

Whether you already have a work permit or you’re exploring different options, you’ve surely run into questions or concerns about the various immigration programs. We’ve compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions about the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP), Ontario’s economic immigration program that nominates qualified Francophone immigrants for permanent residence. Our goal is to provide information about the OINP that is easy to understand and accessible to everyone.

Navigate this program with confidence and find out how Ontario can become your new home.

Why should I be interested in the OINP?

The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) supports immigration programs operated by the Government of Canada by nominating individuals with the skills and experience needed in Ontario.

The OINP has 8 streams. How do I choose the one that’s right for me?

The OINP has various streams for qualified foreign workers and international students based on their skills, education and work experience, including:

• Employer Job Offer
• Foreign students with a Master’s degree or PhD from an Ontario university
• Express Entry

Use the OINP Stream Selector Tool to find out which stream is the best fit for you.

I’ve already applied for a work permit. Should I wait until I receive my permit and start working before applying for the OINP?

You can initiate the application process even if you have a pending work permit. Don’t forget some OINP streams require a full-time, permanent job offer from an Ontario employer.

I’ve received my work permit, but I’m not yet in Ontario. Can I still leverage the OINP?

Whether you’re already in Ontario or you’re outside the province, you can apply to the OINP for a nomination once you’ve met the eligibility criteria for one of the program streams, including streams that operate through the federal government’s Express Entry System. This means that you can create an Express Entry profile even before you arrive in the province. It’s important to update your profile with any relevant work experience you acquire in Canada under your work permit.

I’m already working in Ontario under my work permit. Can I apply for a nomination in the province before my work permit expires?

You can start the application process at any time. Depending on the stream you choose, you’ll need to register an expression of interest through the OINP or create an Express Entry profile through the federal government process.

Is it still possible to receive an OINP nomination for this year (2024)?

For 2024, the OINP nomination quota set by the federal government is 21,500. Since this limit has not yet been reached, you can still apply for a nomination. Even if the quota is met, the program will continue to accept and review applications. Approved applications will be counted towards the following year’s quota. This means that you can start the application process without worrying about current quota limits.

What types of positions are available in Ontario?

There is a shortage of healthcare professionals, skilled trades workers in mining and construction, French teachers, and early childhood educators. That said, Ontario is a very diversified province and there are many job opportunities in a range of sectors, including information technology, manufacturing, motor vehicle manufacturing and many others.

Does Ontario have services for Francophones?

While Ontario is a predominantly Anglophone province, government services are available in French in most areas of the province, including settlement services. English and French courses are also provided free of charge to people who have been granted permanent residence.