The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) allows Ontario to nominate candidates for permanent residency based on provincial labor market needs. The OINP is an essential part of Canada’s immigration strategy and is designed to attract skilled professionals, international graduates, and entrepreneurs to contribute to Ontario’s economic growth.
How to Apply for the Ontario Provincial Nominee Program (OINP)
- Assess Eligibility
Start by determining if you meet the criteria for one of the available OINP streams, such as Human Capital Priorities, Employer Job Offer, or Entrepreneur Stream. Each stream has its own requirements related to education, work experience, language proficiency, and job offers (if applicable). For some streams, like Human Capital Priorities, a job offer is not required but you must be eligible for Express Entry. - Create an Online Profile
For most streams, including those linked to Express Entry, you must create an online profile in the OINP system. Once you’ve created your profile, you will submit an Expression of Interest (EOI), which includes information such as your skills, experience, and qualifications. This EOI will be scored based on a points system. - Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
If your profile is among the top candidates, you may receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) from the OINP. This step is crucial because only those invited can move forward with a full application. Invitations are based on factors such as your score in the OINP’s ranking system. - Submit a Full Application
After receiving an ITA, you must submit a complete application, including documents like proof of identity, educational credentials, language test results, and proof of settlement funds. You will have a limited time (often 14 to 30 days) to submit this information. Ensure all details are accurate to avoid delays. - Get a Provincial Nomination
If your application is approved, Ontario will issue you a provincial nomination. This nomination adds 600 points to your Express Entry Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, significantly improving your chances of being invited by the federal government to apply for permanent residency. - Apply for Permanent Residency
With the provincial nomination, you can now submit your final application for permanent residency to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). At this stage, federal authorities will assess your application, including conducting security and medical checks.
Costs and Fees
- OINP Application Fee: The fees depend on the stream you are applying under. For the Employer Job Offer and Human Capital streams, the fee is CAD $1,500 for applicants who intend to settle outside the Greater Toronto Area and CAD $2,000 for those within the area.
- Entrepreneur Stream Fees: This stream requires an initial application fee of CAD $3,500.
- Federal Processing Fee: Once nominated, you will also need to pay the federal processing fees, which include a CAD $1,365 processing fee for most applicants.
Processing Times
The OINP typically processes applications within 60 to 90 days, though this can vary depending on the stream. The federal process for permanent residency can take an additional 6 to 12 months, depending on factors like your country of origin and the complexity of your case.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the minimum CRS score for Ontario PNP?
The minimum CRS score varies by draw but generally requires a score of around 400 points for the Human Capital Priorities Stream. However, scores as low as 350 have been accepted in certain draws.
2. Do I need a job offer for Ontario PNP?
Not all streams require a job offer. The Human Capital Priorities Stream allows candidates to apply without a job offer, but other streams, like the Employer Job Offer Stream, do require one.
3. How long does the Ontario PNP process take?
The provincial processing time is typically 60 to 90 days, followed by an additional 6 to 12 months for the federal permanent residency application.
4. Can entrepreneurs apply for Ontario PNP?
Yes, the Entrepreneur Stream allows individuals with a business idea or those looking to purchase a business in Ontario to apply
By staying informed about the specific requirements and updates for each stream, you can effectively navigate the Ontario PNP and secure your pathway to Canadian permanent residency.