The Canadian province of Ontario has officially began accepting applications under its newly established Workforce Priority Stream, providing eligible foreign workers with a fresh opportunity to secure permanent residence through the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program OINP.

Effective from August 4, 2026, qualified foreign nationals can register an Expression of Interest EOI through Ontario's e-Filing Portal. To qualify, applicants must have a valid job offer from an employer that is registered and approved under the OINP Employer Portal.

The new immigration pathway is designed to address Ontario's labour market needs through three distinct streams. These include a pathway for higher-skilled workers, another for lower-skilled workers, and a dedicated route for self-employed physicians who are licensed to practise in Ontario and are eligible to bill the province's public health insurance plan.

Ontario authorities said applicants who successfully submit an Expression of Interest will be ranked using a points-based selection system introduced on July 20, 2026. Invitations to apply for provincial nomination will be issued through regular draws based on candidates' scores and the province's labour market demands.

The province noted that the Workforce Priority Stream is aimed at attracting skilled talent needed across key sectors while giving employers access to qualified international workers to fill persistent labour shortages.

— BBC