Canada | Phase one updates to OINP in effect June 26

The Ministry of Labor, Immigration, Training and Skills Development released the first phase of the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) redesign, introducing the new Ontario Workforce Priority stream. The regulations have not yet been published but are in effect as of June 26, 2026.

Key takeaways:

As BAL previously reported, the existing OINP streams have officially closed and no further invitations will be issued under the former program. The Expression of Interest (EOI) system is now closed to new EOIs and is anticipated to reopen later this summer for the Ontario Workforce Priority stream.

The newly introduced Ontario Workforce Priority stream will have pathways for individuals with job offers in all Training, Education, Experience and Responsibilities (TEERs) of National Occupational Classifications, as well as for self-employed physicians. Eligibility criteria is divided into a TEER 0-3 pathway, TEER 4-5 pathway and a self-employed physician pathway. Criteria can be viewed here and will be confirmed once the regulations are published.

When the EOI system reopens, candidates who are eligible for the Ontario Workforce Priority stream may register a new EOI. Employers who have previously registered in the employer portal will not need to register again but will need to submit a new job offer and new application under the new program stream.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice Group.

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