Canada’s Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) have long been a preferred route for skilled workers and international graduates aiming for permanent residency. Among them, the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) is one of the most sought-after pathways. However, 2025 has witnessed a significant slowdown in OINP invitations, reflecting broader changes in Canada’s immigration policy.
The Current State of Ontario PNP in 2025
So far in 2025, the OINP has issued only four Invitations to Apply (ITAs), a sharp decline compared to the 14,760 ITAs issued in the first two months of 2024. This reduction aligns with a nationwide decrease in provincial immigration allocations, which have been halved for 2025.
Despite the slowdown, several OINP streams remain open, accepting Expressions of Interest (EOIs) from prospective applicants. This article provides an in-depth look at which pathways are available, their eligibility criteria, and the larger policy shifts shaping provincial immigration in Canada.
Which OINP Streams Are Open?
As of early 2025, the only OINP stream that has issued ITAs is the Employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker Stream. On January 4, a targeted draw under this stream issued four ITAs to candidates in the federal Economic Mobility Pathways Project (EMPP), a work pathway for skilled refugees and displaced individuals.
Despite the slowdown in ITAs, the following OINP streams are still accepting EOIs:
- Employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker Stream
- Employer Job Offer: International Student Stream
- Employer Job Offer: In-Demand Skills Stream
- Master’s Graduate Stream
- PhD Graduate Stream
In addition, Ontario continues to operate Express Entry-aligned streams that consider candidates passively. Applicants with active Express Entry profiles can receive Notifications of Interest (NOIs) from the OINP, allowing them to apply for provincial nomination.
Eligibility Criteria for OINP Streams
Each OINP stream has unique requirements. Here’s a breakdown:
Employer Job Offer Streams (Require a job offer)
- Foreign Worker Stream: Requires a full-time, permanent job offer in a skilled occupation, with a wage at or above the median wage in Ontario.
- International Student Stream: Requires a full-time, permanent job offer in a skilled occupation and must apply within two years of graduation from an eligible Ontario institution.
- In-Demand Skills Stream: Requires nine months of work experience in an eligible occupation and a job offer in an in-demand sector.
Graduate Streams (No job offer required)
- Master’s Graduate Stream: Requires a Master’s degree from an eligible Ontario university, Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 7 or higher in English or French, and proof of settlement funds.
- PhD Graduate Stream: Similar to the Master’s stream but applies to PhD graduates.
Express Entry-Aligned Streams
- Human Capital Priorities Stream: Targets candidates with a Master’s or PhD and strong language skills.
- Skilled Trades Stream: Requires one year of work experience in a skilled trade in Ontario.
- French-Speaking Skilled Worker Stream: Requires strong French (NCLC 7) and English (CLB 6) proficiency.
All applicants must demonstrate intent to reside in Ontario and maintain valid temporary status in Canada if applying from within the country.
Why Has Provincial Immigration Slowed Down?
In October 2024, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) decided to halve provincial immigration allocations, citing concerns over housing and affordability. The total PNP allocations dropped from 110,000 in 2024 to just 55,000 in 2025.
This cutback has forced provinces to recalibrate their immigration strategies. Some examples:
- New Brunswick introduced stricter eligibility criteria for its streams.
- Yukon postponed its first intake of applications in 2025.
- Newfoundland and Labrador regained 90% of its lost allocations by agreeing to accept 290 humanitarian immigrants.
Ontario, however, has not yet announced any new restrictions or program cancellations but has significantly slowed down draws.
The Road Ahead for Ontario PNP Applicants
Although 2025 has started with fewer ITAs, Ontario remains committed to its existing immigration pathways. The province is likely negotiating with the federal government to restore some of its lost allocations.
For Indian students and skilled workers aiming for Canadian PR through Ontario, here are some strategies:
- Maintain an active Express Entry profile to qualify for passive selection.
- Secure a job offer from an eligible Ontario employer to enhance eligibility.
- Stay updated on OINP draw announcements, as policies may change throughout the year.
- Explore alternative pathways, such as federal Express Entry programs or other provincial nominee programs (PNPs) with less stringent restrictions.
While the immigration landscape has shifted in 2025, Ontario remains a top destination for skilled workers and international students. By staying informed and strategically planning their applications, prospective immigrants can improve their chances of success.
The Ontario PNP landscape in 2025 reflects broader immigration policy shifts across Canada. While the number of ITAs has drastically reduced, opportunities still exist for skilled professionals and graduates who meet the eligibility criteria. As the year progresses, immigration policies may evolve, creating new possibilities for applicants. Staying informed and prepared is key to successfully navigating this changing environment.
