Ontario Makes Major Changes to the OINP Starting July 2025

Ontario has introduced new regulations that bring major changes to the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP). These updates, effective July 1, 2025, aim to give the province more control over how the program operates and align immigration more closely with Ontario’s labour market needs. The changes are part of a new law called the Working for Workers Seven Act.

If you're planning to apply to the OINP, here’s what you need to know.

Key Changes to the OINP in 2025

1. Applications Can Now Be Returned

The OINP now has the authority to return applications before a provincial nomination is issued. If this happens, applicants (or their representatives) will receive a notification and a full refund of the application fee.

Applications may be returned for reasons such as:

• Limited nomination allocations
• Mismatch with Ontario’s current labour market needs
• Concerns related to program integrity
  
  

2. In-Person Interviews Introduced

In-person interviews may now be required for both employers and applicants. Accommodations will be provided where necessary.

3. Lower Education Requirements for Early Childhood Educators

Applicants under the Human Capital Priorities (HCP) and French-Speaking Skilled Worker (FSSW) streams, who use NOC 42202 (Early Childhood Educators and Assistants), will no longer need to meet the minimum education requirement if they are members of the College of Early Childhood Educators.

Previously, these streams required candidates to hold a Canadian or equivalent foreign bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD degree.

4. New Employer Portal Launch

The OINP has officially launched a new electronic Employer Portal, which marks a shift to an employer-led application process for all Employer: Job Offer streams.

With this change, all existing Expressions of Interest (EOIs) have been withdrawn. Candidates must now work with their employer to submit a new EOI through the portal.

5. Flexibility in Immigration Streams

Ontario now has the ability to add or remove PNP streams based on current job market needs. This means the province can respond more quickly to changes in labour demand.

Why These Changes?

Ontario’s nomination allocation has been cut in half by the federal government as part of a national effort to address housing and affordability concerns. Due to this reduced quota, Ontario is now being more selective in who it invites for permanent residence.

This trend isn’t limited to Ontario. Other provinces, such as British Columbia, have also paused or limited many of their PNP streams to focus on high-impact economic candidates.

What This Means for Applicants

If you're planning to apply under the OINP:

• Stay updated on which streams are active
• Ensure your job role matches Ontario’s in-demand occupations
• Be prepared to work closely with your employer during the new EOI process

Ontario will now prioritize high-quality applications that best support its current economic needs.