Ontario Announces Plans for New OINP PR Streams
Ontario to Introduce New PR Pathways Under OINP
Ontario is preparing to open new avenues for skilled foreign nationals seeking permanent residence, as the province positions itself for a major refresh of its immigration strategy. With recent legislative changes now in effect and broader federal immigration targets on the rise, Ontario is laying the groundwork for fresh, targeted nomination streams under the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP).
Ontario Signals Introduction of New PR Streams
Ontario’s Immigration Minister, David Piccini, announced plans to develop a new “talent-focused” pathway during the third reading of Bill 30 on November 25. According to Piccini, the upcoming stream will be designed to recognise innovation and excellence across diverse fields, including research, the culinary sector, and entrepreneurship.
Why Ontario Is Reshaping Its Immigration Roadmap
1. Suspension of the Express Entry Skilled Trades Stream
- On November 14, 2025, Ontario suspended intake to the Express Entry: Skilled Trades Stream.
- The province initiated a full return of applications and fees after a program assessment uncovered widespread integrity issues, including misrepresentation and compliance concerns tied to eligibility requirements.
The closure frees up part of Ontario’s nomination quota and increases the urgency to redesign how the province selects and supports skilled trades professionals. The new powers granted through Bill 30 will enable the government to implement alternate, more targeted pathways quickly.
2. Lack of Draws in Select OINP Streams
- Master’s Graduate Stream
- PhD Graduate Stream
- Entrepreneur Stream
This unusual pause suggests that the province may be reallocating nominations and reconsidering priority areas as part of a broader realignment of its economic immigration strategy.
3. Higher Federal PNP Targets for 2026
- In 2025, Ontario’s nomination allocation fell to 10,750, a steep drop from 21,500 in 2024, following a temporary reduction in federal-provincial nominee admissions.
- In the new Immigration Levels Plan, the federal government reversed course, dramatically raising the PNP target to 91,500 for 2026, a 66% increase from 2025.
This unusual pause suggests that the province may be reallocating nominations and reconsidering priority areas as part of a broader realignment of its economic immigration strategy.
Employer Job Offer: In-Demand Skills Stream
| Date | Invitations | Profile Creation Period | Score Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| August 28, 2025 | 25 | July 2 – August 28, 2025 | 34 and above | Targeted draw for REDI candidates |
What the Future May Hold for Prospective Applicants
With new authority, freed-up nomination space, and boosted federal allocations, Ontario appears ready to introduce more specialized, sector-aligned and labour market–driven PR pathways. These changes may benefit:
- Highly skilled researchers
- Culinary professionals
- Entrepreneurs and innovators
- Skilled trades workers under redesigned pathways
Ontario's Ongoing Preoccupation with Workforce Shortages
