Ontario has officially launched applications for its new Workforce Priority Stream, offering eligible foreign workers a pathway to permanent residence through the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP).

Effective August 4, 2026, foreign nationals can now register an Expression of Interest (EOI) via Ontario’s e-Filing Portal, provided they have a qualifying job offer from an eligible employer.

According to the OINP, the stream features three distinct pathways:

Higher-skilled workers

Lower-skilled workers

Self-employed physicians registered to practise in Ontario and eligible to bill the province’s public health insurance plan (OHIP).

Candidates must link their EOI to a qualifying job offer created in the OINP Employer Portal. EOIs remain valid for up to 12 months, after which applicants must re-register if not invited.

Ontario explained that candidates will be ranked under a points-based scoring system introduced on July 20, 2026, with invitations issued through periodic draws. Invited applicants will have 17 days to submit a complete application, while employers must apply for approval of the employment position within 14 days.

Successful nominees will receive a provincial support letter to apply for a federal work permit while their permanent residence application is processed. Those under the higher-skilled and physician streams may also qualify for the Enhanced Provincial Nominee Program linked to Express Entry, potentially expediting their PR applications.

The Workforce Priority Stream is the first pathway introduced under Ontario’s overhaul of the OINP, following the closure of previous streams on May 30, 2026. The province noted that additional pathways including a Priority Healthcare Worker Stream, an Entrepreneur Stream, and an Exceptional Talent Stream will be rolled out in the second phase of the program’s modernization.

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