ONTARIO: In a significant boost for foreign skilled workers and international graduates, the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) has issued over 1,649 invitations in its latest draw held on February 2, 2026. Whether you are an overseas worker or a graduate from a Canadian institution, Ontario’s recent draw scores offer a strategic pathway to securing Permanent Residency (PR) in Canada.
What is OINP and How Does It Work?
The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) is an economic immigration initiative designed to help Ontario employers recruit skilled talent from abroad or within Canada to meet labor market needs. Receiving a provincial nomination significantly strengthens your federal PR application.
Application Process:
- EOI Registration: Candidates must first register an ‘Expression of Interest’ on Ontario’s e-Filing portal.
- Receiving an ITA: Based on your score and occupation, Ontario issues an ‘Invitation to Apply’ (ITA).
- Nomination Application: Selected candidates submit their full application for provincial nomination.
- Federal PR Application: Once nominated, you can apply for Permanent Residency through IRCC.
February 2nd Draw: Detailed Breakdown
The following table outlines the invitations issued and the cut-off scores for various streams in the recent draw:
| Category | Stream | Target Areas | Cut-off Score | Key Occupations (NOC) |
| Category A | Foreign Worker | All Ontario | 33 | Physicians (Doctors) |
| Category B | Foreign Worker | All Ontario | 36 | Nursing Supervisors, Nurse Practitioners, ECE |
| Category B | Intl. Student | All Ontario | 56 | Healthcare & ECE Professionals |
| Category C (REDI) | Foreign Worker | Lanark, Leeds & Grenville | 44 | Accounting Technicians, Software Engineers, Nurses |
| Category C (REDI) | Intl. Student | Lanark, Leeds & Grenville | 69 | Health Management, Graphic Designers, ECE |
| Category C (REDI) | In-Demand Skills | Lanark, Leeds & Grenville | 34 | Home Support, Machine Operators, Material Handlers |
Key Streams and Eligibility Requirements
- International Student Stream: Graduates from recognized Canadian institutions can apply for PR without any prior work experience. The primary requirement is a full-time, permanent job offer from an Ontario employer in a skilled occupation (TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3).
- In-Demand Skills Stream: This stream is open to individuals who have worked in Ontario for at least 9 months (within the last 3 years). It is an excellent opportunity for health support workers and construction helpers.
- Employer Job Offer Streams: Across all categories, a valid, permanent job offer from an eligible Ontario employer is mandatory to qualify for nomination.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- When is the next draw expected? OINP typically conducts draws every two weeks. The next draw is anticipated in the second week of February.
- Can people from outside Canada (e.g., India) apply? Yes! Through the ‘Foreign Worker Stream,’ outland applicants are eligible. However, you must have a valid full-time job offer from an approved employer in Ontario.
- Is this benefit only for those already in Canada? No, but inland applicants may receive certain advantages. Specifically, the ‘International Student Stream’ awards more points for education completed within Canada.
For Further Information and Application Assistance
This news report is provided for informational purposes only. For official requirements and criteria, please visit the Government of Ontario’s official website (ontario.ca/oinp). For application processing and legal advice, we strongly recommend consulting a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC/CICC) or a licensed lawyer in Ontario. Ensure your eligibility and documentation are accurate before proceeding.
CMN🍁Buzz – Editorial Team 🍁
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