Immigration Announcement
Ontario Immigration Nominee Program Expression of Interest Draws Gain Momentum in 2026
The Ontario Immigration Nominee Program Expression of Interest system continues to play a central role in how Ontario selects skilled workers, graduates, and job-ready candidates for provincial nomination. As 2026 begins, Ontario has already issued thousands of invitations across key employer-driven streams, reinforcing the province’s focus on healthcare, regional development, and workforce stability.
Under the Ontario Immigration Nominee Program Expression of Interest system, candidates first submit a profile and enter a selection pool. Ontario then reviews profiles and issues invitations to apply based on labour market needs, regional priorities, and occupation-specific shortages. Receiving an invitation does not guarantee approval, but it signals strong alignment with Ontario’s current economic goals.
For professionals planning their Canada immigration pathway, these draws provide valuable insight into where opportunities are growing.
February 2026 Targeted Draws Highlight Ontario Labour Needs
On February 2, 2026, Ontario conducted multiple targeted draws under the Ontario Immigration Nominee Program Expression of Interest system. These draws focused heavily on healthcare, early childhood education, and regional economic development.
Employer Job Offer Foreign Worker Stream
| Focus Area | Invitations | Score Range |
| Physicians | 129 | 33 and above |
| Regional Economic Development | 14 | 44 and above |
| Health and Early Childhood | 634 | 36 and above |
Employer Job Offer International Student Stream
| Focus Area | Invitations | Score Range |
| Regional Economic Development | 26 | 69 and above |
| Health and Early Childhood | 1,015 | 56 and above |
Employer Job Offer In-Demand Skills Stream
| Focus Area | Invitations | Score Range |
| Regional Economic Development | 7 | 34 and above |
These targeted draws confirm Ontario’s strategic use of the Expression of Interest system to address real labour shortages rather than broad intake.
How the Ontario Expression of Interest Selection Process Works
The Ontario Immigration Nominee Program Expression of Interest system is not first come first served. Instead, it is a points-based ranking system designed to identify candidates who best match Ontario’s immediate and long-term needs.
Key points to remember
• Candidates must first submit an Expression of Interest profile
• Invitations are issued directly through the OINP e Filing Portal
• Not all eligible profiles receive invitations
• Ontario does not provide advance notice of draws
• Deadlines are strict once an invitation is issued
Applicants under the Master’s Graduate and PhD Graduate streams must submit applications within 14 calendar days. Employer Job Offer stream applicants must meet a 17-day submission timeline, while employers must complete position approval within 14 calendar days. Precision matters at every stage.
Invitations Issued Under OINP in 2026 So Far
Ontario has already issued a significant number of invitations in early 2026, particularly through employer-supported streams. This confirms Ontario’s focus on candidates who are already connected to the labour market.
Invitations to Apply Issued in 2026
| OINP Stream | Invitations Issued |
| Employer Job Offer Foreign Worker | 777 |
| Employer Job Offer International Student | 1,041 |
| Employer Job Offer In Demand Skills | 7 |
| Masters Graduate | 0 |
| PhD Graduate | 0 |
| Entrepreneur | 0 |
The data clearly shows where Ontario’s priorities currently lie.
Why Healthcare and Regional Occupations Are Leading OINP Draws
Ontario continues to face workforce pressure in healthcare, childcare, and regional communities. By prioritizing these roles, the Ontario Immigration Nominee Program Expression of Interest system helps stabilize essential services while supporting long-term population growth outside major urban centres.
Healthcare professionals benefit from lower score thresholds. International graduates gain strong opportunities when working in priority occupations. Regional employers receive direct access to global talent. This balanced approach strengthens Ontario’s economy while maintaining program integrity.
What Candidates Should Do Next
Candidates interested in the Ontario Immigration Nominee Program Expression of Interest system should focus on accuracy, relevance, and timing.
Key actions to consider
• Ensure EOI profile details are complete and correct
• Confirm job offers meet stream requirements
• Monitor OINP updates regularly
• Prepare documents in advance
• Act quickly once invited
Strong preparation often makes the difference between receiving an invitation and missing a draw.
Ontario Immigration Nominee Program Expression of Interest Draws
The Ontario Immigration Nominee Program Expression of Interest system remains one of the most strategic provincial pathways to permanent residence in Canada. The 2026 draws clearly show Ontario’s intent to select candidates who can contribute immediately to healthcare, education, and regional growth. As competition increases and draws become more targeted, informed planning is essential.
