Ontario PNP Application Process In Simple Steps: Know Costs & Processing

Ontario, Canada’s most populous province, offers an excellent opportunity for immigrants to obtain permanent residency through the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP), a part of Canada’s broader Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).

This program allows the province to nominate individuals who have the skills and experience needed in Ontario’s economy.

If you’re looking to move to Ontario, here’s everything you need to know about the Ontario PNP and how to apply for it.

What is PNP Ontario?

The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) is Ontario’s version of the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). It allows the province to nominate individuals for permanent residency based on their ability to meet the province’s labor market needs.

The OINP provides pathways for foreign workers, international students, entrepreneurs, and even businesses looking to bring in skilled foreign talent.

The OINP partners with the federal government’s Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), which makes the final decision on granting permanent residency after Ontario has nominated an individual.

Streams Under Ontario PNP

The Ontario PNP offers 9 different streams, each targeting specific groups of immigrants based on their education, skills, and experience. These streams are divided into three categories: Employer Job Offer, Human Capital, and Business.

1. Foreign Worker Stream
   For individuals with a job offer in Ontario in a skilled occupation.
2. International Student Stream
   For graduates from Canadian institutions who have a job offer in Ontario.
3. In-Demand Skills Stream
   For workers in demand in specific sectors like agriculture, construction, and manufacturing.
4. Masters Graduate Stream
   For those with a master’s degree from an Ontario university.
5. PhD Graduate Stream
   For those who hold a PhD from an Ontario university.
6. Entrepreneur Stream
   For foreign entrepreneurs interested in starting or buying a business in Ontario.
7. Human Capital Priorities Stream
   For highly skilled workers who have qualifications aligned with Ontario’s labor market needs.
8. Skilled Trades Stream
   For workers qualified in a skilled trade occupation in Ontario.
9. French-Speaking Skilled Worker Stream
   For skilled workers proficient in both English and French.

Express Entry Linked Streams

Several streams are linked to the federal Express Entry system, meaning you need an active Express Entry profile. These include the Human Capital Priorities, French-Speaking Skilled Worker, and Skilled Trades streams.

How to Apply for Ontario PNP?

There are two main systems to apply for the OINP: the Expression of Interest (EOI) system and the Express Entry system. Here’s how they work:

Applying Through Express Entry System

1. Create an Express Entry Profile
   You’ll need to create an Express Entry profile if you haven’t already. When you meet the OINP’s criteria, you’ll receive a Notification of Interest (NOI).
2. Submit Application
   Once you get an NOI, you have 45 calendar days to submit your application to the OINP. You must ensure that you meet the stream’s requirements before submitting your application.
3. Prepare Documents
   You’ll need to gather and upload supporting documents like proof of education, job offers, language test results, and more.
4. Submit Online
   Go to Ontario’s e-filing portal, log in, and submit your application with the required fee ($1,500).
5. Permanent Residency
   If nominated, you’ll receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency from IRCC.

Applying Through Expression of Interest System

1. Create EOI Profile
   If you’re not in Express Entry, create an Expression of Interest profile on the OINP website. Based on the information you provide, you may be invited to apply for a specific stream.
2. Submit Application
   You have 14 calendar days to submit your application once you receive an invitation.
3. Review Stream Requirements
   Review the specific stream’s eligibility criteria before submitting the application. Missing documents can lead to a return or rejection of the application.
4. Fee Payment
   Application fees range from $1,500 to $2,000, depending on the stream and location within Ontario. Refunds are available only if the application is withdrawn before processing.

Costs and Processing

Stream Type	Fees (CAD)
Masters/PhD Graduate, International Student	$1,500
In-Demand Skills (Outside Greater Toronto)	$1,500
In-Demand Skills (Greater Toronto Area)	$2,000
Foreign Worker Stream	$1,500-$2,000 (depending on GTA)

The OINP charges a processing fee that varies based on the stream and whether you’re applying from within or outside the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).

Important Considerations

• Document Preparedness: Ensure that all documents are ready before starting your application, as missing documents will delay the process.
• Dual Applications: If you receive both an invitation from IRCC and a nomination from Ontario, you will need to withdraw one before proceeding.
• Keep Your Express Entry Profile Active: For streams linked to Express Entry, your profile must remain valid throughout the process.

The Ontario PNP provides a golden opportunity for those looking to immigrate to Canada’s largest and most economically vibrant province.

Whether you’re a skilled worker, recent graduate, or entrepreneur, there’s likely a stream for you.

The process might seem complicated, but by following the steps outlined here, you can successfully apply and potentially receive permanent residency in Ontario.

FAQs