If you’re considering immigrating to Canada and settling in Ontario, the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP), commonly known as Ontario PNP, is a great pathway to permanent residence. This blog explains everything you need to know about the Ontario PNP — what it is, how it works, eligibility, and how to apply.

What is Ontario PNP?

The Ontario Provincial Nominee Program (Ontario PNP) allows the province of Ontario to nominate individuals who have the skills, experience, and qualifications needed to contribute to the local economy.

If Ontario nominates you, you can apply for Canadian Permanent Residency (PR) through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Ontario is one of the most popular destinations in Canada for newcomers due to its economic opportunities, quality of life, and diverse population.

How Does Ontario PNP Work?

The Ontario PNP has several immigration streams that fall under three categories:

1. Employer Job Offer Category

You can apply under this category if you have a valid job offer from an employer in Ontario.

• Foreign Worker Stream
  
• International Student Stream
  
• In-Demand Skills Stream
  

2. Human Capital Category

This includes streams for candidates with strong language skills, education, and work experience.

• Ontario Express Entry – Human Capital Priorities Stream
  
• Ontario Express Entry – Skilled Trades Stream
  
• Ontario Express Entry – French-Speaking Skilled Worker Stream
  
• Masters Graduate Stream
  
• PhD Graduate Stream
  

3. Business Category

This is for entrepreneurs from outside Canada who want to start a business in Ontario.

Step-by-Step Process of Ontario PNP

Here’s how the application process generally works:

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Each stream has specific eligibility requirements. These may include:

• Job offer (if applying under Employer stream)
  
• Minimum language proficiency (CLB 7 or higher)
  
• Minimum work experience (generally 1 year or more)
  
• Education credential assessment (ECA)
  

Step 2: Create a Profile

If applying through an Express Entry stream, you’ll need to create an Express Entry profile and register for Ontario’s Expression of Interest (EOI) system.

Step 3: Receive Notification of Interest (NOI)

Ontario may invite you to apply based on your Express Entry profile or EOI score.

Step 4: Apply to the Ontario PNP

Once invited, submit your application through the Ontario PNP e-Filing Portal. There is an application fee ranging from CAD 1,500 to CAD 2,000.

Step 5: Get Nomination Certificate

If approved, you’ll receive a provincial nomination, which adds 600 points to your CRS score in Express Entry.

Step 6: Apply for PR

You can now apply for Permanent Residence to IRCC through Express Entry or the paper-based process, depending on your stream.

Ontario PNP Processing Time

• Ontario PNP Nomination: Typically 2–3 months
  
• PR Application after Nomination: 6–8 months (via Express Entry)
  
• Processing times can vary depending on the stream and the volume of applications.

Benefits of Ontario PNP

✅ Fast-track to PR via Express Entry
✅ High nomination rate for skilled candidates
✅ Opportunity to live and work in Ontario
✅ Multiple streams for skilled workers, students, and entrepreneurs

Eligibility Criteria Overview

How to Improve Your Chances

• Improve your language score (IELTS/CELPIP)
  
• Get a valid job offer from an Ontario employer
  
• Choose in-demand NOC codes in Ontario
  
• Keep your Express Entry profile updated

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting incomplete documents
  
• Applying under the wrong stream
  
• Not meeting the EOI score cut-off
  
• Missing deadlines after receiving NOI

 FAQs about Ontario PNP

1. Is Ontario PNP part of Express Entry?

Yes, some streams like Human Capital Priorities and Skilled Trades are aligned with Express Entry.

2. Can I apply for Ontario PNP without a job offer?

Yes, many streams under Human Capital and Graduate categories do not require a job offer.

3. How many points do I need for Ontario PNP?

There’s no fixed score, but Ontario generally invites candidates with a CRS score above 450 in Express Entry-aligned streams.

4. Do I need to live in Ontario after getting PR?

Yes, since you’re nominated by Ontario, you’re expected to live and work in the province.

5. Can international students apply for Ontario PNP?

Yes, Ontario has special streams for international graduates from Ontario institutions.

Final Thoughts

The Ontario PNP is a powerful pathway for skilled individuals, international graduates, and entrepreneurs to settle in one of Canada’s most vibrant provinces. By choosing the right stream and submitting a complete and strong application, you can significantly boost your chances of becoming a Canadian permanent resident.

If you’re planning to apply, working with a trusted immigration consultant like Argus Immigration can make your journey smoother and stress-free.