⚠️ [tool: OINP calculator + Ontario guide] Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program Redesigned: New Ontario Workforce Priority Stream Launches
Ontario has redesigned its immigration program, closing 8 existing streams and replacing them with a new Ontario Workforce Priority stream. The Expression of Interest portal for the new stream opened on August 4, 2026.
Key points
✓All 8 former OINP streams have been closed as of June 25, 2026
✓New Ontario Workforce Priority stream has three pathways: TEER 0-3 skilled workers, TEER 4-5 workers, and self-employed physicians
✓Expression of interest portal for the new stream opened August 4, 2026
✓Previous EOIs and job offers under old streams have been automatically withdrawn
✓Regulatory changes include stricter language and education requirements and reduced response times for compliance notices
What this means for you
If you were previously in the OINP system, your old expression of interest has been withdrawn and you'll need to register again under the new Ontario Workforce Priority stream if eligible. The new program requires higher language benchmarks and education credentials, and focuses on workers with arranged job offers in Ontario. Self-employed physicians now have a dedicated pathway.
Full detail
Ontario has completed the first phase of a major redesign of its immigration nomination program. Effective June 25, 2026, the province closed eight existing streams (including Employer Job Offer streams, Express Entry-linked streams, and PhD/Master's Graduate pathways) and introduced a single new Ontario Workforce Priority stream. This represents a shift toward streamlining pathways for workers with existing job offers in Ontario.
The new Ontario Workforce Priority stream has three main pathways: one for skilled workers in TEER 0-3 occupations with job offers; one for TEER 4-5 workers with job offers; and one for self-employed physicians without a job offer requirement. Each pathway has specific work experience, language, and education requirements that are generally higher than previous program requirements. The expression of interest portal opened on August 4, 2026.
All pending expressions of interest and job offers under the previous streams were automatically withdrawn in the coming weeks after the June announcement. Candidates and employers were notified directly. Existing applications that were submitted following an invitation under an old stream will continue to be assessed under the rules that were in effect when submitted.
The redesign also introduces changes to program integrity measures, including reducing the response time for administrative monetary penalty notices from 60 to 30 days, and allowing notices to be sent by email, mail, or in person.
What happened to my existing expression of interest?
If you registered an EOI under one of the former OINP streams, it has been automatically withdrawn. You will need to register a new EOI under the Ontario Workforce Priority stream if you meet the eligibility criteria.
What are the main eligibility requirements for the new program?
Requirements vary by pathway. TEER 0-3 workers need a permanent job offer, 6 months work experience in the role (or 3 months for recent Ontario graduates), Canadian Language Benchmark 6 (or 5 for certain occupations), and a post-secondary degree or diploma. TEER 4-5 workers need 9 months experience, CLB 4, and a secondary school diploma or equivalent.
Can I apply without a job offer?
Yes, but only if you are a self-employed physician who is a member in good standing with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario, holds an eligible certificate of registration, and is eligible to bill through OHIP.
When does the second phase of the redesign happen?
The page indicates this is Phase 1 of a 2-phase redesign, but no date or details for Phase 2 are provided on this page.
General information, not legal or immigration advice. Immigration rules change often — confirm details on the official source above and, for your situation, consult a licensed RCIC or immigration lawyer.