Ontario has opened intake for its new Ontario Workforce Priority Stream, giving eligible foreign nationals a new pathway to provincial nomination and permanent residence.
As of August 4, 2026, candidates can create an Expression of Interest through the OINP e-Filing Portal. Applicants applying with a job offer must link their profile to an eligible position submitted by an Ontario employer through the Employer Portal.
The new stream includes three pathways:
- Higher-skilled workers
- Lower-skilled workers
- Eligible self-employed physicians practising in Ontario
Candidates with active profiles will be ranked under a points-based system. Ontario will periodically invite selected applicants to submit a complete application for provincial nomination.
An Expression of Interest remains valid for up to 12 months. Candidates who do not receive an invitation during that period must create a new profile.
Some higher-skilled applicants and self-employed physicians may also be nominated through Express Entry, which could provide faster federal processing.
Ontario is also planning future streams for healthcare workers, entrepreneurs and applicants with exceptional achievements in fields such as science, technology, innovation, academia and the arts. Full details and launch dates have not yet been announced.
