Ontario PNP – What It Is and How to Apply – All You Need to Know

The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) is a crucial pathway for international students, skilled workers, and entrepreneurs to gain permanent residency (PR) in Ontario, Canada. This article provides an overview of what the Ontario PNP entails, its various streams, and a step-by-step guide on how to apply.

What is PNP Ontario?

The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) is part of Canada’s partnership with provincial governments to attract individuals who can contribute to local economies. Ontario’s PNP, known as the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP), nominates candidates for permanent residency based on the province’s economic needs and the applicant’s qualifications. While the OINP provides nominations, the federal government, through Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), makes the final decision on granting permanent residency.

Key OINP Streams

Ontario offers nine main streams under the OINP:

1. Foreign Worker Stream
2. International Student Stream
3. In-Demand Skills Stream
4. Masters Graduate Stream
5. PhD Graduate Stream
6. Entrepreneur Stream – for entrepreneurs with business proposals.
7. Human Capital Priorities Stream
8. Skilled Trades Stream
9. French-Speaking Skilled Worker Stream

Express Entry streams are also available, but applicants need an active Express Entry Profile and a notification of interest to qualify.

Stream-Specific Requirements

Each OINP stream has specific eligibility criteria involving skills, education, language proficiency, and work experience. It is essential to check these details directly on the Ontario government’s website or authorized portals to ensure you meet the requirements.

How to Apply for Ontario PNP?

The OINP uses two main systems for application management: the Expression of Interest (EOI) system and the Express Entry system. Both systems allow applicants to express their intent to be considered for nomination.

Express Entry System

1. Notification of Interest (NOI): You must submit your application within 45 calendar days after receiving a notification of interest.
2. Review Stream Requirements: Ensure you meet the requirements for the stream indicated in your notification.
3. Document Preparation: Gather all necessary documents and scan them for upload with your application.
4. Submit Application:
   • Visit Ontario’s official OINP portal and create an account on the e-filing system.
   • Complete the online form and submit it along with a non-refundable fee of $1,500.
5. Profile Maintenance: Keep an active profile in the Express Entry System.

Important Note: If you receive an invitation for PR from IRCC while your OINP application is in progress, you must choose to either reject the IRCC invite or withdraw your OINP application.

Interest System

1. Timeline: Submit your application within 14 calendar days after receiving an EOI.
2. Eligibility Review: Check if you meet the draw-specific eligibility requirements.
3. Application Submission:
   • Visit ontario.ca and navigate to the OINP section.
   • Log in through ONe-key and start the application from “My Applications”.
   • Pay the required fees:
     • $1,500 for International Student, Masters Graduate, and PhD Graduate streams.
     • $1,500-$2,000 for other streams, depending on whether the job is located inside or outside the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).
4. Refund Policy: Refunds are only available if you withdraw the application before processing begins or if it is deemed incomplete.

Application Fees Overview

Stream	Application Fee (CAD)	Location-Based Fees
International Student, PhD, Masters	$1,500	Not location-dependent
In-Demand Skills, Foreign Worker	$1,500 (outside GTA)	$2,000 (inside GTA)

OINP Application

1. Document Readiness: Ensure all documents are complete and accurate before submitting.
2. Maintain Communication: For general inquiries, use the contact information provided on the OINP website. For technical issues, email the OINP support team with screenshots for assistance.
3. Stay Updated: OINP regulations and criteria may change annually, so it is essential to monitor updates on the official government website.

Ontario PNP

• Pathway to Permanent Residency: OINP helps applicants transition smoothly to permanent residency.
• Diverse Streams: Offers opportunities for skilled workers, students, and entrepreneurs.
• Economic Contribution: Applicants chosen align with Ontario’s labor market needs, ensuring job growth and business development.

The Ontario PNP (OINP) provides an effective way for skilled workers, students, and business-minded individuals to achieve permanent residency in Ontario. Whether applying through the Expression of Interest or Express Entry system, understanding the application process and meeting eligibility requirements are key. Stay informed, prepared, and proactive to increase your chances of a successful nomination.

FAQs