Ontario has officially launched applications for its new Workforce Priority Stream, offering eligible foreign workers a pathway to permanent residence through the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP).
Effective August 4, 2026, foreign nationals can now register an Expression of Interest (EOI) via Ontario’s e-Filing Portal, provided they have a qualifying job offer from an eligible employer.
According to the OINP, the stream features three distinct pathways:
Higher-skilled workers
Lower-skilled workers
Self-employed physicians registered to practise in Ontario and eligible to bill the province’s public health insurance plan (OHIP).
Candidates must link their EOI to a qualifying job offer created in the OINP Employer Portal. EOIs remain valid for up to 12 months, after which applicants must re-register if not invited.
Ontario explained that candidates will be ranked under a points-based scoring system introduced on July 20, 2026, with invitations issued through periodic draws. Invited applicants will have 17 days to submit a complete application, while employers must
