The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) has not yet used up its quotas for the current year and promises draws through December. According to information shared by program representatives at a meeting with RCICs in Canada, 2027 is expected to bring new streams: for regulated health professionals without a job offer, for entrepreneurs, and for exceptional talent. Launch dates for most of them have not yet been confirmed.

Draws before year-end

OINP representatives said the program has not yet used up all of its quotas for this year and expects to hold draws before December. After recent profile changes, many candidates updated their work experience and monetary points data, but there have been no invitations since the new invitation system launched. It’s officially confirmed that quotas remain unfilled. The new immigration levels plan, according to those present, should also soon provide more details.

Stream for health professionals without a job offer

The second phase of changes, which was announced last time but only partially launched, is now planned for regulated health professionals. The stream is expected to launch soon. The key feature: no job offer will be required. This matters for those who depend on an employer, since getting third-party support is often difficult.

Entrepreneur stream

The OINP investment stream is closed, and the province currently has no active program for PR through investment. The new entrepreneur stream, previously expected in 2026, has been pushed to 2027, but exact dates haven’t been confirmed. The new minister is still getting up to speed on current issues, so the launch date is unknown; it could also arrive earlier than expected.

Exceptional talent and Francophone candidates

Ontario plans to attract exceptional talent for PR: researchers with major scientific contributions, holders of prestigious awards, and people with international recognition. Timelines haven’t been announced yet. Drawing a parallel with US visas for outstanding individuals, this pathway will be open based on exceptional achievements. Francophone candidates, OINP confirmed, remain a priority: the province wants to grow its Francophone community outside Quebec. For them, draws focused on French require a CLB 5 level in all skills.

The Ontario provincial government building in Toronto, with its entrance facade and a line of visitors

What to do right now

While draws haven’t resumed, candidates should keep their Ontario PNP profile up to date. OINP is expected to hold large invitation rounds, and the timing of those rounds will become known closer to their start.